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The annual Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) returns this September for 11 days of nonstop cinematic celebration, star-studded events, and unforgettable experiences. As one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, TIFF 2024 promises to be a whirlwind of excitement for movie buffs, industry insiders, and celebrity watchers alike.
So, how do you navigate the tornado of events in this year’s festival? We’ve got your TIFF itinerary covered. In this guide, you’ll learn what to do at TIFF, from catching the hottest premieres to exploring the best of King Street West between shows.
Lights, camera, action!
When thinking about what to do at TIFF, galas should be at the top of your list. These high-profile events blend movie magic with red carpet glamour, and they’re not as out of reach as you might think.
Unlike other festivals, charity gala presentations and other special events at TIFF are generally open to the public as long as they have a ticket. That said, they often sell out quicker than you can say “action!” If you want to join the glitz and glam without worrying about snagging those elusive tickets, you can take matters into your own hands by organizing a viewing party for a big premiere.
🎬Pro Tip: Look for a TIFF event space at King Street West that can accommodate your guests without being too far from the action!
At its heart, TIFF is all about the films, so if you ask “What to do at TIFF?” of course we’re going to say “Watch films!” The 11-day festival features a diverse lineup of local and international films, including premieres, documentaries, and indie gems.
The key here is planning ahead. As soon as the festival schedule is released on August 13, mark your must-sees and create an itinerary around the screenings you want to attend. Remember to leave some wiggle room for spontaneous choices and midnight screenings.
📹Pro Tip: Don’t rush out of the theater once the credits roll. Many screenings include Q&A sessions with the actors and/or director afterward. With the right ticket, you might get the chance to chat with the stars and filmmakers!
During TIFF’s opening weekend on September 5 to 8, a stretch of King Street West closes and transforms into an entertainment district known as Festival Street. Here, you’ll find so many answers to “What to do at TIFF?” like live performances, outdoor screenings, and activations.
It’s the perfect place to soak in the festival atmosphere even without screening tickets. You’ll find food trucks offering local fare, restaurants with extended patios for people-watching and star-spotting, and snack houses for quick bites between films.
📹Pro Tip: For a bird’s-eye view of the festivities, head to a nearby rooftop patio, where you can sip cocktails while taking in a bustling scene like the one below.
Image Source: Shutterstock
Indulging in TIFF also calls for sustenance, and who doesn’t love eating out? The food scene at the festival is sure to leave you satisfied, with many options on offer. TIFF is the perfect time to indulge in Toronto’s world-class culinary scene. Many restaurants pull out all the stops during the festival, offering special TIFF-themed menus and extended hours.
🎬Pro Tip: Why not sample some craft summer cocktails at trendy bars along King Street? They’re not just delicious, but also prime locations for celebrity sightings.
One of the most exciting aspects of the Toronto International Film Festival is the chance to see your favourite stars up close. With Toronto hosting some of the film industry’s biggest names, spotting celebrities becomes a thrilling game for many festival attendees.
The key is knowing where to look. Here are some prime locations for celebrity spotting during the festival:
Image source: Shutterstock
Another thing to do at TIFF that will surely keep you entertained is shopping! Toronto offers a variety of shopping experiences, from luxury boutiques and unique local markets to TIFF pop-up shops for exclusive festival merchandise.
Queen Street West is a haven for fashionistas, lined with unique boutiques and vintage shops. If luxury is more your style, head to Yorkville for high-end designer stores. Now, if you need a one-stop shop for all your needs, the Eaton Centre in downtown Toronto has you covered.
If you’re a true cinephile, visit the Film Reference Library. This treasure trove of film-related materials is a quiet oasis in the midst of festival frenzy.
Located on the fourth floor of TIFF Bell Lightbox at the Festival Tower, the Film Reference Library offers a wealth of resources for film lovers, including books, photos, press kits, DVD, and laserdisc titles, and more. TIFF attendees can take this chance to explore their vast collection, research the history of cinema and past festivals, or attend special exhibits.
Once the credits roll, that’s when TIFF comes alive. The festival’s legendary parties are where stars let loose and industry deals are struck. Frequently hosted at upscale venues, these events are accessible through tickets or exclusive invitations. Keep an eye on the TIFF website and social media channels for announcements on official after-parties.
If you’re feeling ambitious, organize your own shindig at a trendy Toronto venue. By crafting meticulous party plans, you could easily become the buzz of the festival!
Read more: How to Throw an A-List TIFF Party
Image Source: Shutterstock
Looking for a show-stopping answer to what to do at TIFF? Roll out your own red carpet at The Loft on King!
Our unique event space at King Street West is right in the heart of the festival action. With panoramic views of King Street below, it’s the perfect venue to gather friends for a private TIFF bash. Customize the space to fit your party theme and impress guests with both the prime location and your party-planning skills.
Who knows? You might discover the next big thing in cinema over canapés and cosmos. Get your own slice of festival heaven at The Loft on King—contact us today!
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