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Toronto International Film Festival

Experience the buzz of the Toronto International Film Festival - where cinema, culture, and celebrities collide!

Thursday

10–20

September 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEThursday After Canada Labor Day (11-day)

OBSERVED INCanada

CATEGORYPop Culture

SUBCATEGORYMovies & TV

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to roll out the red carpet for September 9! Let's welcome the Toronto International Film Festival, a spectacular event celebrated with utmost excitement! This renowned festival first began in 1976, making it over four decades old. Originally called "Festival of Festivals," it was created to showcase the best films from festivals around the world. In just a few years, it became one of the most beloved cinematic events, enticing movie buffs from every corner of the planet. Presently, it stands as a prestigious platform where emerging directors get to showcase their talents alongside industry veterans. So, grab your popcorn because the excitement of the festival where cinema, culture, and celebrities collide is about to commence!

TIMELINE

Toronto International Film Festival Timeline

Toronto Festival's Inception

The "Festival of Festivals", now known as the Toronto International Film Festival, was established to highlight the best films from other global film festivals.

Name Change to TIFF

The festival officially changes its name to the Toronto International Film Festival, reflecting its growth and international recognition.

Impact of 9/11

In the wake of 9/11 tragedy, the festival tones down its events and initiates a tribute to the victims on September 11.

Opening of TIFF Bell Lightbox

The TIFF Bell Lightbox, a cultural center dedicated to cinema, opens its doors and becomes the official hub for the festival.

Gender Parity Pledge

TIFF becomes one of the first film festivals to sign the 5050x2020 pledge, committing to gender parity in its selections and organization.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Toronto International Film Festival

Host a movie marathon

Pick a selection of past festival favorites and host your own mini film festival at home. Set the stage with comfortable seating, and, of course, plenty of popcorn and film snacks!

PARTICIPATE

Participate in a film-making workshop

During the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), numerous workshops for aspiring filmmakers are held. Participate in one and who knows, you might spark a new hobby or career!

VISIT

Visit celebrity hangout spots

The festival brings an influx of celebrities to Toronto’s upscale bars, restaurants, and hotels. Go celebrity spotting and maybe even snag an autograph!

DISCOVER

Discover new films.

TIFF is known for its diverse selection of international and independent cinema. Be adventurous and go see a film from a country or genre you wouldn’t normally watch. You might find a new favorite!

JOIN

Join a festival tour.

Take a guided tour of the festival venues and Toronto’s film district, learning about the city’s rich cinema history along the way.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Toronto International Film Festival

Celebrity Sightings & Star Gazing

The festival attracts a plethora of celebrities from around the world. Whether it's for catching a glimpse of Hollywood stars or for the thrill of an autograph - TIFF is a love-filled event for all the starstruck fans out there!

Showcases Best Films Worldwide

TIFF is a platform known for its curation of the finest films from around the globe, enabling audiences to explore a variety of genres, styles, and narratives beyond mainstream cinema.

Promotes Emerging Talents

One of the reasons we love TIFF is that it not only showcases the work of established filmmakers but also spotlights emerging artists, providing a stepping stone for aspiring directors to further their careers.

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