The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) takes place every September in Toronto. It’s one of the most famous film festivals in the world, attracting both filmmakers and movie fans. Since 1976, TIFF has become renowned for its mix of indie films and big studio premieres. As TIFF gets ready for its 50th edition in 2025, this guide will help you explore the top highlights and stay on track with the full TIFF schedule.
Here's the TIFF calendar dates you MUST add to your own calendar👇
August 21, 2025
🎟️ TIFF Insider Presale Begins
Early access to tickets for TIFF members, presented by Visa
August 21, 2025
👩🎓 Under-25 Free Pass Ticket Access Opens
Single tickets available for TIFF’s Free Pass holders aged 18–25
August 25, 2025
🎬 General Public Ticket Sales Open
Tickets go on sale for all remaining festivalgoers
September 4–14, 2025
📽️ 50th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF 2025) Starts!
Eleven days of screenings, events, and celebrations!
👉 To check the TIFF schedule today, with event updates, or last-minute changes to dates and venues, visit TIFF’s official website and follow them on social media.
1. Experience the Hollywood glamour 🎬💫
TIFF 2025 runs from September 4 to 14, and the full lineup is packed with unforgettable moments — from high-profile red carpets to indie gems. This year’s TIFF events kick off with John Candy: I Like Me directed by Colin Hanks, and wrap up with Peak Everything (Amour Apocalypse) by Anne Émond.
Among the buzziest titles? Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein, and Chloé Zhao’s Hamnet, starring Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley. Whether you’re in it for the glitz or the next big breakout, TIFF has something for everyone.
Want a sneak peek at the must-see films for TIFF 2025? 👇
2. Visit the TIFF Lightbox 🍿
Nestled in Toronto's vibrant entertainment district, the TIFF Lightbox is a must-see if you are a film enthusiast. Located in Festival Tower, on the northwest corner of King Street West and John Street, the TIFF Lightbox features an art gallery, the Film Reference Library dedicated to preserving Canadian cinema heritage, a TIFF souvenir store, and five public movie theatres, where we're sure you'll find an enriching experience as a film lover.
During the TIFF festival, you can immerse yourself in various film offerings by checking out their programs. Plus, the TIFF Bell Lightbox is an ideal place in the city to find delicious dining options, such as LUMA, a restaurant specializing in seafood, and the more relaxed O&B Canteen, where you can enjoy a snack without losing sight of the celebrities.
Although the Presentation Gala and TIFF Tribute Awards are ticketed, if you're punctual and cautious, you can find a prime spot in the public barricades of the Princess of Wales Theatre to enjoy watching your favourite stars parade by.
3. Spot your Fav Celebrities 📸🌟
TIFF is the ideal movie festival to meet your favorite celebrities in person. To achieve this plan, you must watch for the main TIFF venues in Toronto, especially Roy Thomson Hall, TIFF Bell Lightbox, Elgin Winter Garden Theatre, Varsity Cinema, and Manulife Centre. You will likely cross paths with your favorite actors by visiting these different spots — especially during the bustling TIFF street festival. So get your camera ready because it’s time to polish your paparazzi skills!
Celebrities and Directors at TIFF 🎥
Among the celebrities and directors who have graced TIFF’s red carpet in previous years are the eccentric Benedict Cumberbatch, the likable Jennifer Lawrence, and the versatile Jake Gyllenhaal. Other celebrities who have walked the red carpet include Ryan Gosling, Scarlett Johansson, George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Leonardo DiCaprio, Charlize Theron, Meryl Streep, Denzel Washington, and, of course, Sandra Bullock.
Behind the scenes, TIFF has also invited some of the world’s greatest directors. From Quentin Tarantino to the iconic Steven Spielberg, the festival has been the starting point for showcasing the works of some of the most influential and creative directors of the last few decades.
We’re sure you know other super famous figures who have also been part of TIFF, including Martin Scorsese, David Fincher, Guillermo del Toro, Ang Lee, Christopher Nolan, and Greta Gerwig. TIFF 2025 is expected to welcome a new wave of exciting stars and filmmakers, and early TIFF news suggests a packed calendar of premieres and appearances.
To stay updated on surprise appearances, red carpet moments, or changes to TIFF ticket prices, we recommend following TIFF’s official social media channels on Twitter and Instagram. These platforms often share exciting teasers and announcements leading up to the festival.
4. Visit TIFF's Industry Conference 👀
TIFF offers new spaces for dialogue, inviting film fans and professionals alike. Enjoy lectures and conversations about cinema and arts featuring directors, producers, and series creators, as well as some of the industry's most recognized professionals.
Some topics discussed are the growing public demand for in-depth stories, the development of feature film projects in an ever-changing landscape, and the focus on European producers and production.
5. Live performances at the Music Stage 🎸
During TIFF 2025, Festival Street returns once again as a family-friendly highlight during opening weekend, transforming King Street from Peter Street to University Avenue into a vibrant pedestrian zone. This outdoor celebration is one of the most popular TIFF events, featuring live music stages, film-inspired sets, and energetic performances by top local Ontario talent — all in honor of cinema. Visitors can also enjoy partner activations, open-air screenings, food vendors, and interactive installations.
While the Festival Street program has not yet released its full 2025 lineup, music is expected to remain a big part of the weekend festivities. In past years, crowds have gathered for performances ranging from jazz ensembles to electronic acts and surprise guest appearances.
For reference, the 2023 Festival Street lineup featured jazz by Dave Young, Thompson Egbo-Egbo, and the Jacob Chung Quintet, while Saturday brought high-energy sets by Luna Elle and Classic Roots. The grand finale included performances by The Aubreys (with Finn Wolfhard), Toronto Dance Theatre, and legendary Canadian rapper Michie Mee.
Watch the video below to see highlights from TIFF 2023👇
6. Freepublic film screenings 🎞️🌟
While star power and major premieres are a big draw, TIFF 2025 also includes a variety of experiences open to everyone. One of the most popular TIFF free events is the outdoor film screenings that create an unforgettable atmosphere under the city lights.
This year, public screenings are expected to take place once again at iconic venues such as Scotiabank Theatre, Princess of Wales Theatre, Roy Thomson Hall, and the Cinesphere IMAX Theatre. These showings often feature classic or cult favorites, offering a relaxed and social way to enjoy cinema — all without needing a ticket.
Imagine watching Batman under the stars, reliving Rocky, or enjoying the dark comedy of Addams Family Values with the whole community. We're sure a beloved classic like Clueless will take on a new dimension under Toronto's summer sky.
The official TIFF 2025 film schedule was unveiled online on Tuesday, August 12, at 10:00 a.m. ET. This is your one-stop destination to explore the full TIFF calendar — from world premieres to documentaries and special screenings.
7. Festival Street Art Market 🎭
While the full details of the Festival Street Art Market haven’t yet been announced for TIFF 2025, past editions have featured vibrant outdoor installations showcasing Toronto’s diverse arts and film community.
Previous participants included the Inside Out Film Festival, imagineNATIVE, Reel Asian, Hot Docs, Muse Arts, Workman Arts, and more — creating a unique space to explore local talent and visual storytelling beyond the screen.
8. Enjoy culinary delights at TIFF 🍲✨
In addition to enjoying the big screen, you can enjoy a delicious adventure at TIFF. The festival offers a wide range of culinary options to enjoy this marathon of movie magic further. In addition to classic snacks like popcorn, hot dogs, and pretzels, you'll also find gourmet food booths and pop-up restaurants from renowned chefs and local culinary stars.
For better planning, we recommend to read our essential guide to TIFF's must-knows, and downloading the official TIFF app, which includes a list of participating caterers and restaurants and vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free offerings.
Wrap Up! 🖍️
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is one of the world’s top celebrations of cinema — offering something for everyone, from industry insiders to casual film lovers. Whether you’re attending panels, spotting celebrities, or exploring Festival Street, TIFF is your chance to fully immerse yourself in 11 days of unforgettable film experiences.
Looking ahead, TIFF is also laying the groundwork for a bold new initiative: TIFF: The Market, launching in 2026. Backed by a $23M investment from the Government of Canada and major TIFF sponsors like Telefilm Canada, this expanded hub will feature curated exhibitions, IP showcases, and immersive creative spaces that connect global creators and audiences. While 2025 won’t see the full rollout, early industry programming is already growing — so stay tuned to TIFF’s official channels.
If you yourself are passionate about cinema too, why not become more than a spectator? Discover amazing acting classes in Canada with Superprof. Prepare yourself for future red carpets and acquire the top artistic skills anywhere in Canada: Get things done with Superprof!
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