TIFF 2025: Toronto International Film Festival Is Here – Everything You Need to Know
The spotlight’s back on Toronto, and it’s not just for another movie premiere. The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is turning 50 this year. That’s five decades of red carpets, late-night lineups, popcorn debates, and enough cinematic drama to fill a multiverse.
From September 4 to 14, 2025, TIFF takes over the city—bigger, louder, and more exciting than ever. Presented by Rogers, this golden anniversary promises to blend movie magic with nostalgic nods and fresh discoveries. Whether you’re in it for the films, the celebs, or just the vibe, here’s your cheeky guide to surviving—and thriving—at TIFF 2025.
This year’s opening scene
Let’s start with the opener: John Candy: I Like Me. Directed by Colin Hanks, this documentary pays tribute to the late, great Canadian comedy legend. It’s warm, funny, and—according to early buzz—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. A hometown icon headlining the hometown fest? It just makes sense.
timeline
- First programming drops: sometime in June 2025 (watch for teaser chaos on Twitter)
- Full schedule reveal: August 12, 2025
- Ticket-buying panic: shortly after that
- Festival dates: September 4–14, 2025
Tickets
TIFF has a ticket tier for everyone—from the casually curious to the front-row-forever type.
- Basic screenings go for about $16–$26, a good deal for a world premiere
- Red carpet, cast-in-attendance, fancy screenings? Prepare for $88+
- Feeling ambitious? There are passes and bundles for the bold
- Didn’t get tickets? There’s always the rush line, aka a rite of passage
Want first dibs? TIFF members get early access and perks. Worth it if you plan to binge-watch your way through September.
Where to watch
The TIFF Bell Lightbox is your go-to HQ, but films are spread across downtown—Roy Thomson Hall, Princess of Wales Theatre, Scotiabank Theatre and more. King Street West shuts down for Festival Street in the opening days, which turns into a walkable zone of film booths, food trucks, and “did I just see Jake Gyllenhaal?” moments.
Even if you don’t have a ticket, downtown feels like you’re in the middle of a movie set.
Not Just for Movie People
TIFF also has a massive Industry component and a Film Market, where creators and buyers connect. But even if you’re not in the business, there’s a lot to enjoy—Q&As, panels, and surprise appearances are common.
And yes, there’s always a chance of spotting celebrities grabbing coffee, heading into screenings, or taking selfies with fans.
TIFF 2025 is more than a film festival—it’s a city-wide celebration of storytelling. With its 50th year, a documentary honoring a Canadian legend, and major premieres on the horizon, this edition promises something for everyone. Whether you’re there for one film or the whole stretch, the energy of TIFF is unforgettable. Just bring your curiosity—and maybe a portable charger.
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