FilmSepMarquee Event
Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF)
When Hollywood comes to Toronto — and Toronto owns it.
When
September 3–13, 2026
Where
TIFF Lightbox, Scotiabank Theatre, Roy Thomson Hall
Area
Entertainment District
Cost
Free + Paid · $15–$65+ per screening
Format
indoor
Attendance
600K+ visitors
Running Since
1976 (50 years)
Family Friendly
Not typically
VT Insider Tip
Forget the galas unless you have deep pockets. The best TIFF experience is buying a multi-pack of tickets and seeing 2-3 films per day at the regular screenings. Midnight Madness screenings are electric. Also: the free outdoor screenings at David Pecaut Square are genuinely great and you don't need a ticket.
About
TIFF is Toronto's crown jewel. For 11 days in September, the city becomes the centre of the film world. 300+ films from 70+ countries, with major premieres, celebrity sightings, red carpets, and packed theatres. It's where Oscar campaigns launch, where indie gems get discovered, and where Toronto shows the world it's a real film city. Everyone should experience TIFF at least once.
What to Expect
11 days of non-stop film screenings, industry events, celebrity sightings, and parties. King Street between University and Spadina becomes TIFF central. Expect higher hotel prices and packed restaurants downtown.
Pro Tips
Study the programme in advance and make a ranked list. Tickets go on sale in waves — member presales first, then public. Have backup choices ready for popular films that sell out. The TIFF Lightbox lobby is free and buzzing with energy during the festival.
Getting There
TIFF Lightbox (King and John), Scotiabank Theatre (Richmond and John), and other downtown venues. All walkable from St. Andrew or Osgoode subway. The TIFF festival zone on King West is pedestrian-friendly.