I’m trying to figure out how to include video files in my GitHub repository’s README document. I’ve been working on a project and want to showcase some functionality through a video demonstration, but I’m not sure if GitHub supports this feature directly in markdown files.
I attempted to add a Flash video to my README but it doesn’t seem to be displaying properly. Has anyone successfully embedded videos in their GitHub README files? What’s the best approach to include video content - should I use HTML tags, markdown syntax, or is there a specific format that GitHub supports?
Any guidance on the proper way to add video demonstrations to repository documentation would be really helpful. I want to make sure visitors can see the video content when they view my project page.
GitHub does not allow direct video embedding in README files. However, a practical solution is to upload your video to a GitHub issue or pull request. This creates a link that can be referenced in your README. I typically create a temporary issue, upload the video file, and then copy the link provided in the comment. By using this link with the standard markdown image syntax, you can enable inline playback of the video. Alternatively, consider hosting the video on platforms like YouTube or Vimeo, but note that this will redirect users away from your repository.
Flash support has been discontinued for quite some time, so that’s not a viable option. GitHub’s markdown has built-in restrictions that limit the embedding of most video files. In my experience, converting demonstration videos into animated GIFs works well; you can include them directly in the repository or upload them to Imgur. While the file sizes can be large, GIFs display inline without the need for extra code, making them accessible. Additionally, I recommend using thumbnail images linked to externally hosted videos. This approach provides a preview while maintaining the README’s loading speed.
yep, can’t embed videos in GitHub READMEs directly. what i do is create a GIF as a preview linking it to the video on another site. HTML video tag rarely works, but you could upload to your releases too, just gifs seem easier for inline viewin.
GitHub blocks direct video embedding, but here’s a workaround that’s worked for me. Upload your video to a separate folder in your repo, then use HTML video tags with raw GitHub URLs. It doesn’t work in every browser, but MP4s usually play fine. Just use <video src="./videos/demo.mp4" controls></video>. Fair warning though - videos make your repo huge. For production stuff, I host videos elsewhere and just put a clickable screenshot in the README instead.