NORTH BEACH, Md. — Film Village, powered by the Reel Independent Film Extravaganza 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has unveiled its lineup of 2025 events, bringing a diverse array of film and arts celebrations to Southern Maryland. The 2025 Film Village calendar includes four major events: Art Alley, the Southern Maryland Art Convention (SMARTCON), the North Beach American Film Festival (NBAFF), and the Frights and Fears Horror Festival.
Reel Independent Film Extravaganza has been a staple in the Washington metropolitan area for over a decade, organizing film exhibitions, conventions, and youth educational programs in filmmaking. Its mission is to “nurture a vibrant community of creators and audiences, inspiring collaboration and elevating the art of filmmaking to new heights.”
For more information, visit filmvillage.org or Film Village’s Facebook page.
Art Alley – May 17, 2025 (North Beach, Md.)
Art Alley will transform North Beach into a lively outdoor art bazaar on May 17 from noon to 5 p.m. at 8900 Chesapeake Ave. The event will feature local independent artist booths, live mural paintings, food truck vendors, and live music performances.
“Art Alley is more than just an art event; it’s an opportunity to bring the community together in a celebration of creativity, culture, and local talent,” organizers said. “It offers an accessible and engaging way for families and individuals to experience art and music in a relaxed outdoor setting.”
Key highlights include:
- Independent Artist Booths showcasing paintings, sculptures, photography, and crafts.
- Live Mural Creations, where artists will transform blank walls into permanent public art displays.
- Food Trucks offering a variety of cuisines.
- Live Music from local musicians and bands.
Southern Maryland Art Convention (SMARTCON) – September 6, 2025 (Dowell, Md.)
SMARTCON, a one-day gathering of artists, technology enthusiasts, and local residents, will be held on September 6 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn, 13100 Dowell Rd.
The event will feature:
- STEM/Robotics Presentations, including hands-on robot-building stations.
- Vendor Tables offering art, literature, and unique handmade merchandise from local creators.
- Push Play Animated Film Festival, an annual showcase of animation talent from around the world.
SMARTCON is part of Film Village’s broader mission to merge the arts with technological innovation and community engagement.
9th Annual North Beach American Film Festival – September 20, 2025 (North Beach, Md.)
Returning for its ninth year, the North Beach American Film Festival (NBAFF) will take place on September 20 at North Beach Town Hall, 8916 Chesapeake Ave.
NBAFF highlights the best in American independent cinema, showcasing films that reflect the multicultural and diverse aspects of American life. The selected films will also be available for viewing on FilmVillage.org.
4th Annual Frights and Fears Horror Festival – October 24-26, 2025 (Leonardtown, Md.)
The Frights and Fears Horror Festival will take over the Leonardtown Arts District from October 24-26, promising a three-day immersive experience for horror fans.
Festival highlights include:
- Screenings of international horror films.
- A horror-themed scavenger hunt.
- Makeup and costume contests.
- Vendor opportunities for horror-themed merchandise.
- A literary panel featuring horror authors.
Accommodations and central events will be hosted at The Inn at Leonardtown, Ascend Hotel Collection, offering visitors an enhanced festival experience.
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