Our Stories Our Screens Our Community

Queer stories have always found their way to Fire Island. From hidden histories to bold new visions. This festival is a gathering point for filmmakers who see cinema as both art and archive. We are honored to have all versions of your stories on our screens. Let’s preserve these memories together, while imagining what’s next.

Submission Info 
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Submission Info

The Grove & Pines Film Festival welcomes submissions from queer filmmakers and allies whose work engages with LGBTQIA themes, histories, and communities. We seek bold, authentic storytelling across all genres and formats.

Eligibility, Rules & Terms

  • GAP accepts submissions from queer filmmakers and allies whose work centers, uplifts, or engages with LGBTQIA themes, experiences, or communities.

  • Films must be in English or have English subtitles at the time of submission.

  • All entries must be submitted via FilmFreeway.

  • Submission does not guarantee selection.

Deadlines
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Fire Island Dunes Sunset

Deadlines

Key Submission Dates

GAPFF Premiering September 18th - 19th - 20th

2026

Submit early to secure the lowest fees and the best chance for consideration. Deadlines are strictly enforced, and no extensions will be granted. Final selections will be announced prior to the festival.

  • March 31st 2026

  • May 1st 2026

  • May 31st 2026

  • July 15th 2026


Awards & Prizes
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Awards & Prizes

Celebrating Outstanding Queer Storytelling

GAPFF honors films that expand the language of queer cinema, spotlight underrepresented voices, and push creative boundaries across narrative, documentary, and experimental forms. Selected works will be recognized across multiple categories celebrating artistic excellence, innovation, and local impact. Below are some of the award categories featured at this years event. 

  • Best Narrative (Short or Feature)

  • Best Documentary (Short or Feature)

  • Best Horror Short

  • Best Music Submission

  • Best Episodic / Web Submission

  • Best of Local Fire Island