TIGLFF Is Evolving: New Look, Expanded Vision

Dear Friends,

We want to share an important update about the Tampa Bay International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival (TIGLFF). Due to funding changes and challenges facing LGBTQ+ arts spaces, we are pausing the separate St. Pete festival planned for January 2026. Instead, the 36th Tampa and St. Pete Annual Festival programming will return together in September 2026, restoring our pre-pandemic format.

This change is part of a larger evolution of our beloved organization. We are rebranding to just “TIGLFF,” keeping our name while introducing a fresh logo and new colors, and dropping the acronym to mirror other longstanding organizations like PFLAG and GLSEN. This change honors our history while embracing a broader, more inclusive vision beyond just “gay” and “lesbian.” Look out for new graphics and a refreshed website coming soon to celebrate this next chapter.

We are also expanding our programming beyond film to include other queer arts experiences such as art markets, fine art experiences, and other community-centered events.  Recent initiatives, such as the community picnic added to our Trans Film Festival, have demonstrated the power of shared experiences in strengthening our local arts community, and we aim to expand on this model. Your voice matters, and we want your input on what kinds of experiences and programming you would like TIGLFF to provide to the community. We will soon be launching a public form to accept submissions for your input on what kinds of films and additional events you’d like to see. 

This is also a moment to get involved. We are looking for volunteers, street team members, board members, and donors to help bring this vision to life. Now is the time to join us, as we are working to ensure TIGLFF remains a longstanding community LGBTQ+ space of entertainment, empowerment, & enlightenment in Tampa Bay. Sign up to volunteer with us here.

While the Tampa and St. Pete festivals will return together in September 2026, our monthly screenings and events will continue as normal. This spring, we are especially excited for the return of the Tampa Bay Transgender Film Festival at the end of March, featuring additional community events with an expansion to Tampa.

We cannot wait to celebrate this rebrand, expanded programming, and the stories and experiences that continue to bring our community together. Thank you for being part of TIGLFF’s journey, and here is to a bold, inclusive, and joyful future.

Warmly, 

TIGLFF Board of Directors