Categories: Things To Do

Here’s what to expect at this year’s TIFF 2026

Photo via BISHA Hotel

The Toronto International Film Festival is marking 51 years in the industry, and like every year, it’s going to be a memorable one. The streets will be filled with fans hoping to catch even a glimpse of their favourite celebrities, movie buffs on their way to watch a fabulous film, and everyone just enjoying the outdoor festivities. The 10-day festival will definitely pack a punch.

Whether this is your first TIFF or 10th, there’s always something new going on. So, to ensure your TIFF experience is a memorable one, we’ve put together a guide to keep you in the loop on everything you need to know.

TIFF 2026 guide: What to know

Here is everything you need to know before TIFF 2026 rolls around.

When is TIFF?

The popular annual event is taking place over a span of 11 days, starting Thursday, Sept. 10 to Sunday, Sept. 20, 2026.

Where can I watch a movie?

Movie screenings are held throughout a number of theatres, mostly on King Street. These theatres include Roy Thomson Hall, VISA Screening Room at the Princess of Wales Theatre, Royal Alexandra Theatre, TIFF Lightbox and the Scotiabank Theatre.

What movies are playing?

At the time of writing, this year’s festival lineup includes 293 titles. The list and schedule can be found online.

How much are tickets for TIFF and how can I get them?

If you’re a TIFF Member, you can get $2 off the price of all Regular screening tickets during the pre-sale, from Aug. 21 to Aug. 27, 2026.

These can be purchased online starting at $30 for regular screening (Starting at $28 for member-exclusive pricing)

Regular rush is $32; premium screenings start at $46 and premium rush at $48.

Keep an eye out during the festival cause you can even find tickets starting at $15.

Tickets can be purchased online.

Will there be a street festival this year?

According to TIFF organizers, Festival Street is happening. More news about Festival Street activations will be shared closer to.

Annually, festivities take place along King Street, from Peter Street to University Avenue.

Who are the celebrities that are coming this year?

We’ve had our fair share of celebrities stop by. I’ve personally seen (from afar) Jennifer Lopez, Orlando Bloom, Ryan Reynolds and Benedict Cumberbatch in the past.

But for this year, we’re sure to see some new and familiar faces. TIFF’s “In Conversation With…” will see Lee Min-ho, Rachel Morrison, Chris Rock, Andrew Scott, and Hudson Williams on stage for “intimate conversations about their creative journeys, craft, and careers,” according to the festival.

Though not officially confirmed, a number of these celebrities will have their movies premiering. They include:

Amanda Seyfried (The Life and Deaths of Wilson Shedd)
Channing Tatum (Josephine)
Courteney Cox (Evil Genius)
Cynthia Erivo (Prima Facie)
Dave Bautista (Alpha Gang)
Gael García Bernal (Hombre al Agua)
Gemma Chan (Josephine)
Jesse Eisenberg (The Debut)
Julianne Moore (The Debut)
Lily-Rose Depp (Alpha Gang)
Margaret Qualley (Love of Your Life)
Penélope Cruz (TIFF Special Tribute Award recipient)
Rebel Wilson (Girl Group)
Sebastian Stan (Fjord)
Zooey Deschanel (Trash Mountain)

And many, many more.

Once the full list is out, we’ll let you know!

Where can I go to eat?

King Street is full of wonderful spots to eat and drink at during TIFF. Pop by (or make a reservation — highly recommend) at one of the local restaurants in the area.

Some of my faves include Hey Lucy, Minami, Pai, Miss Likklemores, and Primadonna.

Another goodie you have to check out is Maxime’s. It’s tucked away on Portland Street, just steps away from King Street. It has a beautiful outdoor patio and intimate indoor space.

There are just too many to name. The same goes for drinks! Stop by Vinny’s, Mister C, Coffee Oysters Champagne, or Tulum — the options are almost endless.

Of course, if you’re looking to keep the party going, you can enjoy one of the many late-night experiences in the King Street and Portland Avenue area.

I could go on and on, but it’s up to you to discover.

What else is there to do?

The party never stops during TIFF. Day and night, there will be lots to do.

Though the full lineup of festivities has yet to be announced, here are some you can already get excited about:

Deadline Portrait Studio at BISHA Hotel Toronto
- BISHA Hotel will once again be the epicenter of TIFF magic. It will host the Deadline Portrait Studio and, like last year, welcome a steady stream of celebrity guests throughout the festival.
  - When: Thursday, Sept. 10 to Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026
  - Where: 80 Blue Jays Way
The House of BISHA
- One of last year’s favourites, the hotel will transform into a dazzling hub of celebrity sightings, media moments, and cinematic glamour. Guests and onlookers can enjoy a complimentary pop-up popcorn station while soaking it all in.
  - When: Thursday, Sept. 10 to Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026
  - Where: 80 Blue Jays Way
Campari Cinema Center
- The Campari Cinema Center is making its comeback – this time at Cassius on King Street. It will serve as TIFF’s premier hospitality hub.
- It’ll host the Collider press junket by day and THE after-party spot for celebs at night.
- The Campari Cinema Center brings together press activations, celebrity receptions, and after-parties still under wraps, cementing its place as TIFF’s hottest ticket.
  - When: Friday, Sept. 11 to Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2026
  - Where: 624 King St. W.