Dear BHFF friends,

We have closely monitored the ongoing developments around the COVID-19 public health crisis and risk assessment. As a result of the current circumstances, BHFF staff has reached the decision to postpone our 17th annual film festival. The new festival dates are October 28-31, 2020.

This year’s festival had initially been scheduled to take place April 8-11. However, as you are likely aware, the New York State and New York City authorities have issued numerous recommendations and limitations on social events and public gatherings for the foreseeable future. Moreover, the federal government has issued entry restrictions for people traveling from Europe for the next month. These circumstances, along with our foremost concern with following best practices when it comes to public health issues, have had a direct impact on our ability to deliver a successful and safe event in April.

BHFF was built by the hard work of its volunteers, and by the deep, years-long commitment of its leadership, supported by our donors and grantors. The current public health crisis has not weakened our resolve and commitment to the project which we love dearly, and we will come back stronger as soon as the ongoing situation is resolved and conditions for safe public assembly are fully restored. 

Please follow us on social media and check our website for further announcements. We look forward to seeing you in October. In the meantime, please take all necessary precautions in order to stay safe and healthy.

In solidarity,
The BHFF Staff