THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY is exceptionally diverse, and nowhere is that more evident than in the creative world, where unique voices from across the spectrum find expression. One of the best ways to witness noteworthy creative work — while also enjoying some well-deserved vacation time — is to plan a trip around an LGBTQ+ film festival. These events take place in cities large and small around the globe, providing unbeatable access to a wide number of films both new and old.

In England, top film festivals include BFI Flare: London LGBTQ+ Film Festival, which takes place in March with a variety of screenings, presentations and other events. Farther north, the Queer Media Festival in Manchester receives support from Manchester Pride, the largest LGBTQ+ pride celebration in northern England. Cinema, animation and other forms are among the featured formats for the November event.

Paris is home to multiple LGBTQ+ film festivals including Chéries Chéris, occurring each November, and Cineffable, an international lesbian and feminist film festival.

In the United States, Los Angeles proves a logical hub for film lovers, especially during the July Outfest Los Angeles. The nation’s other big creative hot spot, New York City, hosts NewFest in October.

Film festivals blossomed around the country, as a matter of fact. Managed by Denver Film, a nonprofit cultural arts organization, CinemaQ runs each July. In Rochester, New York, ImageOut draws crowds every October and will celebrate its 28th anniversary this year with showings of established and rising talents from the world of film. Nearby, the city of Ithaca — home to Cornell University and Ithaca College — hosts Quinfolk, a film, arts and mental health festival also taking place in October, with an emphasis on queer and trans people of color.

Even the relatively small city of Sarasota, Florida, hosts an annual event that showcases LGBTQ+ films. The festively titled Fabulous Independent Film Festival takes place every September, and the Lido Beach Resort and The Resort at Longboat Key Club list among the hotel properties promoting the event to their guests. After all, there’s nothing wrong with a sunset toast on the beach after a day embraced by the flicker of the big screen.