Outfest is an LGBT-oriented film showcase and festival in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1982 as the "Gay and Lesbian Media Festival and Conference", the name was changed to Outfest in 1994.
Outfest gives annual "Outie" awards in 16 categories. Awards are given by grand juries, festival audiences and the Program Committees. Jury awards are given for: US Narrative Feature; Screenwriting; Actor in a Feature Film; Actress in a Feature Film; International Feature; Documentary Feature. Audience awards are given for: First Narrative Feature; Narrative Feature; Lesbian Narrative Feature; Documentary Feature; Narrative Short Film; Documentary Short Film; Soundtrack. Programs awards are given for: Freedom Award; Outstanding Emerging Talent; Outstanding Artistic Achievement. Outfest also presents the Outfest Achievement Award, the Outfest Honors, the Outfest Screenwriting Lab Award and the Screen Idol Award.