Reel Pride began in 1985 as a volunteer‑run film night organised by the Winnipeg Gay and Lesbian Film Society. In those early years there were no theatres screening queer stories, so the society took it upon themselves to build one by borrowing classrooms, sending out mailers and convincing friends to help set up chairs and projectors. Over the decades the festival has grown along with Winnipeg’s lgbtq+Q+ community. It adopted the name Reel Pride in 2000 to mark a shift from occasional screenings to a full‑fledged film festival that takes place every autumn. By staying volunteer driven and community focused, it has been able to show hundreds of films that might otherwise never reach audiences in Manitoba. For 2025 the organisation is planning its 40th anniversary celebration. The festival will return to the Gas Station Arts Centre at 445 River Avenue, the same intimate venue that has hosted many previous editions. Screenings will run from Wednesday, 17 September, through Sunday, 21 September, with feature films and shorts scheduled throughout the day and into the evening. In honour of the milestone the team will also host an art exhibit in the lobby and Q&A sessions with filmmakers and actors. A special gala on opening night will look back at memorable moments from past festivals and recognise the volunteers who have kept the event going for four decades. The signature Canadian Short Film competition is also back for its 22nd year and will present a programme of new works on Saturday afternoon. A typical day at Reel Pride begins with afternoon matinees, continues with early evening features and ends with late‑night screenings for adults. Tickets for individual films are inexpensive, and passes covering the entire festival are available for those who want to see everything. Because the event is run by a non‑profit society, every dollar raised through ticket sales and donations goes straight back into programming and outreach. The festival partners with local bars and restaurants in Osborne Village to create a welcoming atmosphere around the venue; it is common to see filmmakers chatting with audience members over coffee or a pint between screenings. Winnipeg’s queer film festival has never been solely about entertainment. Over the years the programmers have used the screen to showcase stories from around the world that explore identity, activism and the challenges faced by lgbtq+Q+ communities. Documentaries about trans athletes, romantic comedies set in small towns and experimental films by young artists have all found a place on the schedule. Following many screenings there are informal discussions or moderated panels where audience members can ask questions and connect with the creators. Organisers stress that the festival is a safe space open to everyone and that feedback from attendees shapes future programming. If you plan to attend the 2025 edition, consider arriving early to collect passes and enjoy the art exhibit before the lights go down. Osborne Village is a busy neighbourhood with limited parking, so walking, cycling or public transit is recommended. Mid‑September weather in Winnipeg can be unpredictable, ranging from crisp evenings to warm afternoons, so dress in layers. For travellers, there are several hotels and bed‑and‑breakfasts within walking distance of the venue. While the festival does not arrange lodging, volunteers are happy to answer questions about the area. In past years Reel Pride has also organised after‑parties at nearby clubs to help raise funds for local charities. By the time the curtain falls on Sunday night, audiences often leave with more than just memories of good films. Many discover new perspectives, make friends and feel a renewed sense of belonging. As one of the longest running queer film festivals in Canada, Reel Pride reminds us that community can flourish around a shared love of cinema. The 2025 anniversary is expected to be both a celebration of past achievements and a launch pad for the next chapter. Official Website

Last Updated: 13 December 2025

• Prev
• Next