Attending the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF): A Practical Guide

Photo Credit: Daxus // Shutterstock

By Jessica Mathis

Festivals are a fantastic way to network, stay informed, and check out the latest in the industry. The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, running from September 4–14, 2025—and if you plan to attend, now is the time to start preparing.

To help with that, I spoke with producer Brad Simanski, a member of the Television Academy and part of Electric Panda Entertainment, a company that has earned recognition at both TIFF and Sundance. Here’s what you need to know.

Why TIFF?

Brad emphasized that TIFF stands out for its inclusivity—it’s considered one of the friendliest and most accessible festivals in the global film circuit. It’s relatively affordable, easy to navigate, and language barriers are minimal. He also noted that Toronto feels very safe, even at night.

Submissions

• Timeline: Submissions typically open from February through May.

• Fees: Range from $75 to $155, depending on category and submission timing.

• Categories:

  • Features

  • Feature Documentaries

  • Shorts

    Each category is divided into Canadian and International submissions.

• Special Categories:

  • Primetime (serialized content)

  • Wavelengths (arthouse/avant-garde films—by invitation only)

Awards

TIFF’s accolades are a mix of jury- and audience-based awards:

• People’s Choice Awards:

  • Overall People’s Choice

  • Midnight Madness (genre films)

  • Documentary

• Jury Awards:

  • Best Canadian Feature Film

  • Short Cuts Awards (Canadian & International)

  • Amplify Voices Awards (for underrepresented voices)

  • FIPRESCI Prize (awarded by international film critics)

• Special Honors:

  • Tribute Awards for actors, directors, and industry figures

  • Variety Artisan Award for technical/artistic achievement

Planning & Budgeting

If your goal is to network, sell a film, or find work, advance planning is key.

• Lineup Release: The full program will be announced August 12, 2025.

• Networking Tip: Reach out early to professionals you’d like to connect with—LinkedIn, IMDB Pro, or even social media can help. An informal coffee or party invite goes a long way.

Budgeting Essentials

TIFF can be done on a range of budgets—from $500–$1,500 for a basic experience, to $5,000+ for a luxury trip. Consider budgeting for:

• Travel

• Accommodations

• Dining

• Local transportation

• Screenings

• Parties & events

Tickets & Screenings

You can purchase tickets in advance, but if you’re going last-minute, consider the “rush lines” outside venues. These are standby lines for no-show seats or last-minute releases. Be prepared to:

• Wait 1–4 hours

• Bring a book, snacks, and a phone charger

• Chat with fellow filmmakers—great for spontaneous networking

Events, Parties & Festival Street

TIFF doesn’t yet have an official film market, but Brad noted that many filmmakers come hoping to connect, pitch, and network outside the official selection list.

• Festival Street: King Street West transforms into a pedestrian zone with free events, food vendors, and interactive installations.

• Panels & Q&As: The TIFF schedule includes curated sessions for learning and networking.

• Informal Parties: Often the best place to meet people organically. Talk to folks in line, at cafés, or around venues.

Notable Events

• The Electric Panda Party

  Brad’s company hosts an intentionally inclusive gathering, where first-timers mingle with industry veterans. Entry is based on line-ups, creating an atmosphere where college students and execs can vibe together.

• The Royal Bankhouse (RBC)

  A luxury venue hosted by the Royal Bank of Canada, where premieres, celebrity events, and high-level networking take place. Brad described it as “a lot of fun.”

• The Detox Party

  A wellness-focused event designed to unwind from the chaos of the festival. Instead of cocktails, expect juices, yoga, and meditation—a refreshing way to reflect and recharge.

• Celebrity Sightings at the St. Regis

  Brad also recommends hanging out in hotel lobbies—especially the St. Regis. A casual coffee might lead to your next collaboration.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re pitching your first short or premiering a feature, TIFF is what you make of it. Show up, say hello, and stay open. The best relationships often start with a shared moment—waiting in line, dancing at a party, or talking over lunch. As the old saying goes: “It’s all in who you know.” And often, the “who” you know? You met them at a festival party.

Jessica Mathis (AKA Divinity Rose) is an award winning screenwriter/performer/producer from Louisville, Kentucky. She is the CEO of She Dreams Content Development and Production, which focuses on female forward projects in comedy, docustyle and genre entertainment.

Browse thousands of jobs and find your next gig! Sign up or login to Staff Me Up and get on-set today!

You may also like:

• • Essential Paperwork Every Production Coordinator Needs
  • Hotel Life: Tips for Staying Comfortable and Productive on Location
  • Realities and Tips When Traveling for Production Gigs