Hardly homogenous: a multi-year analysis of attendees at the Vancouver Queer Film Festival

As an essential space for progress, growth, and advocacy, LGBT2Q+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Two-Spirit, Queer and additional identities) festivals and events cultivate transformative storytelling experiences that preserve history and create community. However, little research has been conducted regarding who attends small scale LGBT2Q+ festivals. The current research attempts to fill these gaps by examining attendees and outcomes at the in-person 31st and virtual 32nd annual Vancouver Queer Film Festival (VQFF) in 2019 and 2020. A Qualtrics survey for both years was conducted. With a combined sample size of 573, results showed a heterogeneous attendee population beyond demographics. Clusters were not statistically different across sexual orientation and gender identity, demonstrating that these may not be appropriate segmentation criteria for LGBT2Q+ people and festivals. A discussion of future research needs and the implications of this research for industry, the LGBT2Q+ community, and academic researchers conclude the study.