Austin's queer horror showcase • 2026

Pride of Terror

Queer stories have always known what lives in the dark. This is where their filmmakers step into the light.

Enter the story
Event datesOCT 16—18Violet Crown • Austin, Texas
Why we gather

The dark belongs to us, too.

Pride of Terror celebrates queer voices in horror and creates a space where queer filmmakers know they are not alone.

Horror has always given voice to outsiders. Here, it also sparks conversation and builds community—a place where stories that matter are showcased and storytellers are heard and seen.

“I created Pride of Terror to celebrate queer voices in horror and to create a space where queer filmmakers know they are not alone.”
— Ryan Ainesworth, Founder

2026 call for entries

Don’t miss the cut.

Opening date

JUN 29

Submissions begin

Regular deadline

JUL 08

Best time to enter

Late deadline

SEP 15

Final stretch

Notification

SEP 30

Selections announced

Eligibility

Your story. Your rules.

A film must be written by a queer writer and/or directed by a queer filmmaker. Both short films and feature films are welcome.

Short filmsFeature filmsQueer writerQueer director
Awards & prizes

Make your mark.

Awards presented during the dedicated Pride of Terror block.

3Trophies
7Certificates

Pride of Terror awards are separate from Ethereal Horror Fest awards.

The bloodline

Hall of Terror

The official Pride of Terror award archive will preserve each winning film, filmmaker, category, and year. The inaugural 2026 class will be revealed after the festival. Tap or click a card to uncover its distinction.

The screening room

Violet Crown

434 W 2nd Street
Austin, Texas 78701
United States

October 16–18, 2026

Submissions are securely collected through Netlify Forms.

Your film has entered the darkness.

Thank you. The Pride of Terror team will review your submission details.