QFest St. Louis 2026 celebrates queer stories and creativity with its 19th annual festival, themed “OUT, LOUD.” Running June 12–21 at the Hi-Pointe Theatre, the event features films, documentaries, and events like a Trans Youth Art Sale and a taping of the queer dating show Closet Space. Highlights include the 10th anniversary screening of Moonlight and the award-winning documentary Lesbians in Boystown.

Celebrating Queer Creativity and Community

The 19th Annual QFest St. Louis, hosted by Cinema St. Louis, will run from June 12–21, 2026, at the Hi-Pointe Theatre. This year’s theme, “OUT, LOUD,” highlights bold and inventive queer storytelling through films, documentaries, and community events.

Festival Highlights

Opening Night: Moonlight’s 10th Anniversary

The festival kicks off on June 12 with a special screening of the Academy Award-winning film Moonlight. This iconic film, celebrating its 10th anniversary, remains a cornerstone of queer cinema.

Lesbians in Boystown: A Must-See Documentary

Lesbians in Boystown documentary poster at QFest St. Louis 2026.
Lesbians in Boystown: A must-see documentary at QFest St. Louis 2026

On Saturday, June 13, at 1 p.m., audiences can catch Lesbians in Boystown, an award-winning documentary featuring Marna Deitch, sister of St. Louis LGBTQ Chamber President Philip Deitch. The film explores the overlooked history of lesbians and queer women in West Hollywood, the nation’s first “gay city.”

The Dads: A Story of Advocacy

Another standout is The Dads, a documentary about fathers of trans and nonbinary children. It showcases their efforts to protect their children in a world that often challenges their existence.

Community Events and Activities

  • Trans Youth Art Sale: A platform for young trans artists to showcase their work.
  • Closet Space Taping: A live recording of the queer dating show, adding an interactive element to the festival.

Why QFest Matters

“QFest and this year’s theme, OUT, LOUD, is a celebration of filmmakers and a queer community that continues to do bold, inventive, and deeply meaningful work,” said Emmett Williams, Festival Curator at Cinema St. Louis. The festival aims to amplify voices that are urgent, personal, and visionary.

How to Attend

For tickets and the full schedule of events, visit Cinema St. Louis. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate queer stories and connect with the community.



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Artemis Ingram
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