Maryland Film Festival returns for its inaugural MdFF Day celebration at the SNF Parkway Theatre with an exciting two-day lineup of screenings, community events, and filmmaker-focused programming on May 2–3, 2025.

Declared an official day by Governor Wes Moore in 2024, Maryland Film Festival Day highlights the state’s vibrant film community and the Parkway’s commitment to bold, independent storytelling. This first ever celebration features theatrical debuts from local filmmakers, a student showcase, a free screening for families, an industry mixer, screenwriters panel, and a House party—all under one roof.

MdFF Day Highlights Include:

Opening Night Community Sneak Peek – Stealing Cars

Friday, May 2 at 7:30pm

Directed by Marly Hernández Cortés and Stephen Schuyler, Stealing Cars follows a teenage car thief navigating life with an estranged father after the sudden death of his mother. A raw and moving exploration of identity and survival, the film was shot entirely in Baltimore and will screen with directors, cast, and crew in person.

Opening Reception – 7pm in the Parkway Lounge

All ticketholders for Stealing Cars are invited to kick off the weekend with drinks and conversation before the screening.

Free Family Screening – FLOW

Saturday, May 3 at 11:30am

Winner of the 2024 Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, FLOW is a wordless visual wonder suitable for all ages. This poetic film follows a solitary cat who finds unexpected companionship on a boat of animals after a great flood.

Darla in Space

Saturday, May 3 at 2pm

The kooky sci-fi comedy that got away returns to the Parkway for its Baltimore theatrical premiere. Co-director Eric Laplante will be in attendance.

Student Shorts Showcase

Saturday, May 3 at 4:30pm

Showcasing standout work from Morgan State, Stevenson, UMBC, Towson, MICA, JHU, and BSA, this program celebrates the next generation of local talent.

Closing Night Baltimore Premiere – Move Ya Body: The Birth of House

Saturday, May 3 at 8pm

Directed by Baltimorean Elegance Bratton and with producer Chester Algernal Gordon attending in person, this electrifying doc traces the rise of house music from Chicago’s underground to a global cultural movement.

Baltimore Screenwriters Panel – Saturday at 12pm

Winners of the 20th Annual Baltimore Screenwriting Competition discuss storytelling, creativity and filmmaking. Presented by the Baltimore Film Office at BOPA, Morgan State University, and Johns Hopkins University.

Filmmaker Mixer – Saturday, 6:30–8pm

Co-hosted by the Baltimore Film Office, Maryland Film Office, and Maryland Film Industry Coalition, this casual mixer invites area filmmakers, artists, and crew to connect, share some nibbles, and collaborate.

MdFF Day House Party – Saturday, 10–11pm

Close out the weekend with a late-night dance party in the Parkway Lounge featuring a live DJ set.

MdFF Day Passes

About the Maryland Film Festival:

Founded in 1999, the Maryland Film Festival has become one of the region’s most anticipated cultural events. Held annually in Baltimore, the festival showcases a diverse array of films from both established and emerging filmmakers, reflecting the community’s vibrant and eclectic culture. The Maryland Film Festival is committed to providing an immersive, enriching experience for film lovers and filmmakers alike through screenings, discussions, and celebrations that highlight the art and power of cinema. In 2024, Governor Wes Moore declared May 2 as Maryland Film Festival Day, honoring the festival’s cultural significance. Looking ahead, the 26th annual MdFF will take place from November 5–9, 2025, marking a new tradition of fall programming designed to align with the academic calendar and deepen engagement with students and educational institutions.​

For more information, visit mdfilmfest.com.