The world’s coolest film festival starts in 3-2-1…Here’s a festival regular’s guide to things to do during TIFF 2025, from the TIFF red carpet and beyond.
Thinking about visiting Toronto during TIFF? Whether it’s your first time or you’ve caught a few screenings before, here’s how to attend TIFF 2025 like a local.
🎬 Looking for buzzy premieres and red carpet moments? Check out our 2025 TIFF Must-See Films & Experiences Guide for insider picks.
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF, September 4–14, 2025) turns 50 this year, and the city is going all out. Think: A-list premieres bringing excitement to King Street West’s festival hub, standing ovations echoing through packed theatres, stars ducking into secret downtown bars, and afterparties that stretch into the early hours with directors, dreamers, and the bold-faced names of Hollywood and beyond.
Since its modest mid-1970s debut, the Toronto International Film Festival has grown into one of the world’s most influential film festivals, now drawing over 700,000 attendees to 300+ films. The event is a magnet for global talent, industry powerhouses, and movie lovers who love to debate the greats, the GOATS and the flops.
TIFF 2025 isn’t just for insiders. It’s for first-time visitors, casual fans, and anyone ready to experience one of the world’s top film festivals up close.
From late-night films at Midnight Madness events to balcony selfies at the stunning Roy Thomson Hall, this golden anniversary promises to be award-winning.
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Why visit Toronto during TIFF 2025
TIFF’s 50th anniversary is shaping up to be a milestone year full of premieres, panels, and parties. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s never been a better time to take part in the city’s biggest cultural moment.
Where to stay, eat, and spot celebrities during TIFF
Toronto’s TIFF experience is shaped by its iconic neighbourhoods. Here’s where to stay, dine, and get the full red carpet vibe.
Entertainment District: TIFF Toronto’s festival headquarters
TIFF’s top theatres live here in the Entertainment District: Roy Thomson Hall, the Princess of Wales, and TIFF Lightbox. But the real pulse? It’s outside, in the swarm of velvet ropes, camera flashes, and carefully timed car-door openings.
Where can I see red carpet events at TIFF?
Want to catch a red carpet premiere or snap a celeb selfie? Here’s where to go:
• A world premiere at Roy Thomson Hall, because you’re not just watching the movie, you’re watching the people watching the movie (celebs, critics, and superfans) who’ve turned film-going into a performance of its own.
• TIFF Lightbox, Toronto’s film-scene clubhouse. Pop into the gift shop, snag a pass, and maybe overhear a casting conversation in the elevator.
• The Rec Room or DPRTMNT are two late-night industry hangs which boast DJs, drinks, and just enough chaos to make 2 a.m. feel like a second act (bottle service is strongly suggested for the latter choice).
Where to stay near TIFF theatres
The beautifully appointed rooms at the Shangri-La Toronto are cinematic, to say the least, but it’s the hotel’s extraordinary Miraj Hammam Spa (which should be booked weeks in advance) that has garnered an orbit of big names for pre- and post-press tour pampering.
King West: TIFF’s Velvet Rope Playground
King West is TIFF’s unofficial runway. It’s not just where the red carpets are: it’s where the afterparties turn into power breakfasts and where the line between industry and nightlife is so blurred, no one dares draw it again.
Best TIFF restaurants in King West
• Baro for its Latin-infused energy, rooftop lounges, and the type of crowd that arrives camera-ready.
• Coffee Oysters Champagne: this indie-crowd fave serves up the essentials, including espresso martinis and bubbly ranging from prosecco to Cristal.
• For the ultimate luxe TIFF moment, head to Vela, one of Toronto’s only caviar bars located a short walk from the TIFF Lightbox theatre. Piloted by a rising star in Toronto’s food scene—Filipino-Canadian chef Marvin Palomo—Vela is one of the most cinematic spaces to have post-movie debriefs after a premiere.
Where to stay near TIFF King West events
While fairly new to the area (it opened at the end of 2023), the Sutton Place Hotel has become a haven for TIFF royalty. Pet-friendly and with a stunning indoor pool, this luxury hotel’s MGM-worthy décor scheme and festival-adjacent location earn it accolades.
Yorkville: Where TIFF celebrities shop and stay
Yorkville is all about high glamour and high fashion. With hotels and shopping tailor-made for celebrities, it is considered the height of Hollywood North during TIFF.
Best things to do in Yorkville during TIFF
• The Hazelton Hotel is where the stars sleep—and more importantly, brunch. Hit up the hotel’s One Restaurant for a side of paparazzi with your mimosa and frittata.
• Sofia Yorkville pairs Italian dining with film-noir interiors and a patio that could pass for Cannes.
• Stylist-approved Yorkville Village is where you’ll find all the best boutiques (think Chanel to Balenciaga) for your closeup-ready splurges.
Where to stay in Yorkville for TIFF
From Brad Pitt to Beyoncé, the Four Seasons has hosted all of TIFF’s top icons. In addition to the hotel’s famous d|bar (a place where many movie contracts are signed), the hotel’s exceptional room service menu is 5-star all the way. If it’s fully booked or you’d prefer a boutique experience, try 1 Hotel Toronto, located down the street.
How to get TIFF 2025 tickets
Lodging sorted? Bring your TIFF experience to the next level with a TIFF ticket package. Pre-booking ensures a spot at coveted screenings and opens doors to TIFF’s full scope.
Consider these TIFF ticket packages:
Best TIFF ticket packages for 2025
Buzz List
$1750
The Buzz List Pass offers a true VIP experience with seats to five of the most talked-about films—from star-studded star-studded premieres to probable future Oscar contenders. While it’s on the splurgier side, this pass guarantees top-tier screenings where cinematic history—and red-carpet magic—unfold in real-time.
Midnight Madness Premiere Pass
$380
TIFF’s wild child. Hosted at the historic Royal Alexandra Theatre, these late-night screenings feature the best in horror, thriller, and genre-bending cinema. Expect raucous audiences, envelope-pushing films, and a sense of community among the fearless.
“In Conversation With…” All Access Pass
$220
Want to be in the room when cinematic legends spill the tea? This pass grants access to intimate talks with some of the biggest names in film. Think masterclasses disguised as conversations—where actors, directors, and auteurs open up alongside top-tier moderators and critics. (*Note: this pass doesn’t include film screenings.)
Explore more TIFF ticket packages here.
Can I still get tickets if TIFF is sold out?
Didn’t snag tickets in time? Don’t panic—rush lines are your secret weapon! Show up early (one to two hours before showtime), especially at bigger venues like Princess of Wales or Roy Thomson Hall. These theatres are your best bet for scoring last-minute seats.
Weekday mornings, matinees, or screenings without red carpet buzz tend to be less competitive—and more rush-friendly. Prioritize flexibility and you might just end up with a surprise hit or hidden gem.
Tips for finding extra tickets during TIFF
Ticketmaster often releases new seats mid-festival, even day-of, and resale prices sometimes dip into doable territory. Keep checking in the early mornings (think from 7–8 a.m.).
What to wear to TIFF 2025
What should I wear to daytime TIFF events?
Think street-style meets stamina: sneakers or cushy flats are your best friends. You don’t need to dress up for daytime screenings—jeans, vintage tees, and layered basics all work. But don’t forget: TIFF theatres crank the AC. Bring a jacket or light sweater even if it’s warm outside.
Do I need to dress up for a TIFF premiere?
TIFF premieres don’t have a formal dress code, but nighttime galas at TIFF come with a bit more red carpet energy. While no one expects full glam from a civilian, this is your chance to dial up the style. Think fashion-forward fits with a bit of edge or polish: elevated layers, statement accessories and looks with sharp tailoring.
Just make sure your look is comfortable enough for late-night post-premiere parties—TIFF nights are long.
How to get around Toronto during TIFF
TIFF makes Toronto’s streets extremely busy, so if you’re in a red carpet outfit and/or heels, take a taxi or car share. Other options include bike shares or public transit (TTC).
TTC buses, streetcars and subways run across the city and are super easy to use. For Yorkville, get off at Line 2’s Bay subway station. Line 1’s St. Andrew subway station is close to the Entertainment District and TIFF Lightbox.
Jet-set tip: An economical and eco-friendly way to get downtown from Pearson International Airport is via UP EXPRESS train ($24.70 return). It will get you to Old Town’s Union Station in under half an hour, avoiding construction-related traffic along the way.
—This story has been updated with new details since it was first published in September 2021.
