Wilmington, DE 

A Celebration of Caribbean Cinema, Style, and Culture

On Saturday, October 11, 2025, the Wilmington International Film Festival will unveil a vibrant new addition to its celebrated lineup. It is the first-ever Caribbean Film & Fashion Night. Presented in partnership with the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of the Northeast (CACCNE), this event promises an immersive journey into the heart of Caribbean creativity, culture, and community. From  red carpet glamour to cinematic excellence, culinary delights, and pulsating rhythms, the evening stands poised to transform Wilmington into a Caribbean oasis for one unforgettable night.

Wilmington International Film Festival

The Wilmington International Film Festival has long held a reputation for spotlighting diverse voices and stories from around the globe. With each edition, the festival strives to build bridges between cultures, fostering understanding and appreciation through the power of film. Its commitment to innovation and inclusivity finds radiant expression in the debut of Caribbean Film & Fashion Night. This is a meticulously curated event that will bring the rich tapestry of Caribbean artistry to center stage.

The Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of the Northeast (CACCNE)

The Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce of the Northeast is a key partner in this initiative. It champions Caribbean culture and entrepreneurship across the region. By supporting artists, filmmakers, musicians, designers, and business owners, CACCNE serves as a dynamic platform for the Caribbean diaspora. It is also for all those who celebrate the region’s vibrant heritage. Their collaboration with the Wilmington International Film Festival signals an exciting new chapter in cultural exchange and creative partnership.

Event Overview

On October 11, festivalgoers will be treated to an evocative blend of cinema, fashion, food, and music. Each element is carefully chosen to spotlight the multi-dimensional brilliance of Caribbean creative industries. The festivities will unfold at The Chancery, one of Wilmington’s premier venues. The packed schedule promises excitement for all ages and interests.

• Red Carpet Arrival

As twilight descends, guests are invited to embrace Caribbean glamour and arrive in their finest attire. The red carpet welcome sets the tone, offering attendees the chance to showcase high fashion and personal style. All this while capturing memorable moments against a backdrop of Caribbean elegance. Photographers and media outlets will document the dazzling parade as guests make their entrances, further amplifying the night’s celebration of individuality and artistry.

• Caribbean Film & Fashion Night Screenings

The program’s beating heart lies in its showcase of standout Caribbean films. Each is selected to reflect the diversity and vitality of the region’s cinematic voices. Audiences will be able to experience:

• • Mosiah (2:30 PM): An evocative narrative exploring themes of identity, resilience, and cultural legacy.
  • Unbelievable starring Spragga Benz (3:30 PM): A gripping drama that blends suspense and social commentary, anchored by the magnetic presence of iconic actor Spragga Benz.
  • Doubles by Ian Harnarine (5:30 PM): An award-winning film that delves into family, migration, and the search for home, crafted by acclaimed filmmaker Ian Harnarine.
  • Sugar Dumplin with Oliver Samuels (7:15 PM) A joyful, comedic tale featuring legendary performer Oliver Samuels, whose wit and warmth have made him a beloved figure across the Caribbean.
  • Someone Loves You starring Nadine Sutherland (8:30 PM): A moving exploration of love and belonging, brought to life by celebrated singer and actress Nadine Sutherland.

Each screening is an invitation to explore the region’s stories, struggles, and triumphs. These are told with artistic flair and emotional honesty. The films represent a range of genres—including drama, comedy, romance, and documentary—underscoring the richness of Caribbean cinema’s contributions to the global stage.

• Q&A Sessions

To deepen the connection between artists and audiences, the evening will feature Q&A sessions with film directors and cast members. These conversations offer rare insight into the creative process. They also share the challenges and joys of filmmaking and the personal stories behind each project. The festival will announce participating guests in the days leading up to the event. This ensures a dynamic and interactive experience for attendees eager to engage with the region’s brightest talent.

• Culinary Experience

No Caribbean celebration would be complete without a feast for the senses. Each ticket includes access to a specially curated Caribbean meal, allowing guests to savor the flavors of the islands. The menu will showcase beloved classics and contemporary twists. Dishes will highlight the region’s culinary diversity—like jerk chicken, roti, plantains, curries, and tropical desserts. Food becomes a bridge to culture, inviting festivalgoers to not only watch Caribbean stories but also taste them.

• • Fashion Show (8:00 PM)

Caribbean fashion is renowned for its bold colors, intricate patterns, and fearless embrace of self-expression. The night’s fashion show will spotlight designers and collections that meld tradition with innovation. This offers a visual feast that complements the evening’s cinematic offerings. From runway presentations to pop-up boutiques, the event will celebrate the artistry and entrepreneurship driving Caribbean fashion forward.

Live Caribbean Music and Entertainment

From 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM, The Chancery will pulse with the sounds of live Caribbean music. This is a gift to Wilmington and all lovers of the region’s infectious rhythms. This portion of the celebration is free and open to the public. It invites everyone to dance, mingle, and soak up the joy of reggae, soca, calypso, and more. Local and visiting musicians will share the stage, ensuring a spirited atmosphere where community and culture converge.

Tickets and Admission Details

Tickets are required for all film screenings and the fashion show, and each ticket includes:

• • Admission to all film screenings
  • A Caribbean meal curated for the event
  • Access to Q&A sessions with directors and cast members (to be announced)
  • Entry to the fashion show

Guests are encouraged to secure their tickets early. The event is expected to draw significant interest from local residents, the Caribbean diaspora, and visitors from across the region. The live music and entertainment segment, running from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM, remains free to all. It offers a welcoming invitation for the broader community to share in the celebration.

Significance and Impact

The Caribbean Film & Fashion Night marks more than just a new addition to the Wilmington International Film Festival. It signifies a growing recognition of the Caribbean’s influence on global arts and culture. By championing Caribbean stories, artists, and entrepreneurs, the festival and its partners foster connections. These transcend borders and backgrounds. Attendees can expect an evening that entertains, enlightens, and inspires. It leaves a lasting impression on Wilmington’s cultural landscape.

 A Beacon of Creativity and Collaboration

As anticipation builds for October 11, 2025, the Wilmington International Film Festival’s Caribbean Film & Fashion Night stands as a beacon of creativity and collaboration. Whether you are a longtime lover of Caribbean culture or discovering its treasures for the first time, this event invites you to step into a world of beauty, brilliance, and boundless possibility. From the first flash of the  red carpet to the final note of live music, every moment promises to celebrate the spirit of the Caribbean. It reminds us all of the power of art to unite and uplift.