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As a strategy for survival from the COVID-19 pandemic, festivals and events have been conducted virtually to provide this form of leisure from home. Replicating transformative outcomes such as social interaction, community building, and fostering of culture in a virtual setting is essential, particularly for traditionally underrepresented communities. Often considered transgressive to broader normative society, LGBT2Q+ festivals offer leisure experiences that provide a platform for history makers, storytellers, and community gathering. Given the unprecedented shift to virtual festivals, it is important to understand whether a virtual platform can achieve these same outcomes for LGBT2Q+ people. The current research examined the attendees and outcomes at the in-person Vancouver Queer Film Festival (VQFF) in August 2019 (n = 362) and the virtual VQFF in August 2020 (n = 211). An analysis of socio-cultural impacts of VQFF on the local community and resident attendees' expectations showed similarities and differences between the in-person and virtual versions of VQFF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an essential space for progress, growth, and advocacy, LGBT2Q+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Two-Spirit, Queer and additional identities) festivals and events cultivate transformative storytelling experiences that preserve history and create community. However, little research has been conducted regarding who attends small scale LGBT2Q+ festivals. The current research attempts to fill these gaps by examining attendees and outcomes at the in-person 31st and virtual 32nd annual Vancouver Queer Film Festival (VQFF) in 2019 and 2020. A Qualtrics survey for both years was conducted. With a combined sample size of 573, results showed a heterogeneous attendee population beyond demographics. Clusters were not statistically different across sexual orientation and gender identity, demonstrating that these may not be appropriate segmentation criteria for LGBT2Q+ people and festivals. A discussion of future research needs and the implications of this research for industry, the LGBT2Q+ community, and academic researchers conclude the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The attraction of craft breweries and wineries for visitors to British Columbia (BC), Canada, has grown significantly in recent years, particularly within millennials. However, little research has been conducted. The present research surveyed millennial visitors across craft breweries and wineries in BC. A total of 359 usable surveys were collected. Results found that although craft brewery and winery visitors had similar demographics, significant differences were found in all three social factors measured. In addition, the conceptual relationships between social involvement and self‐image congruency, as well as social return, were significant. Recommendations and implications for researchers, marketers, and industry professionals are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]