By: Andrew Silverstein

With a culture as art-friendly and culturally rich as Tampa, it's no surprise that the area has its fair share of film festivals throughout the year.  From the Reel Terror Horror Film Fest to the renowned Gasparilla Film Festival, celebrations commemorating the motion picture are no stranger to the Tampa Bay Area.

The Tampa International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival is one of the mainstay film festivals in Tampa, building a loyal following and eclectic selection of film since its inception in 1990.

Now in it's 22nd year, The Tampa International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival, hosted by the nonprofit, Friends of the Festival, is a festival geared towards fundraising for the Tampa LGBT community while entertaining, enlightening, and celebrating the diverse festival audience.

Tampa International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival runs from Thursday, October 6 to Sunday, October 16 with films being shown at the Tampa Theatre, Muvico Baywalk in Downtown St. Petersburg, and the Tampa Museum of Art.

It all kicks off with a big Festival Gala on Saturday, October 8.  Head out in your best black tie wear and don't be afraid to get creative.  This year's theme will be the Great Gatsby.  Enjoy cocktails, food, music, and more at the Don Vicente De Ybor Historic Hotel beginning at 10 p.m. on Saturday.

The next week on Saturday, October 15, the TIGLFF will host SURGE, "the ultimate dance party of the year" at the Ritz Ybor.  Dance the night away to music from international DJ, Seth Cooper.

For a full schedule and list of events, visit the Tampa International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival website here.