The Toronto International Film Festival is turning 50, and the city is celebrating in style. From outdoor screenings to live music and public art, downtown will be buzzing with free events and activations September 4–14.
Here are some of the highlights you won’t want to miss:
Downtown West Summer Music Series – TIFF Weekend Special
📍 Clarence Square Park | September 4–6
Celebrate TIFF weekend with three days of live music in Clarence Square Park. The Summer Music Series brings a festival atmosphere to the neighbourhood with world music, jazz, R&B, and more.
🍦 On Thursday, September 4 at 4 PM, the first 100 guests will also enjoy free gelato — the perfect treat to start the weekend.
Adrian Hayles’ 3D Light Box Mural
📍 Festival Street
Toronto artist Adrian Hayles is unveiling a striking 3D Light Box mural to celebrate TIFF’s People’s Choice Award winners and 50 years of innovation in film. This interactive piece is a must-see photo stop while exploring Festival Street.
Festival Street Turns 10
📍 King Street West (Peter St. to University Ave.) | September 4–7
Festival Street is back for its tenth year, transforming King Street into a pedestrian-friendly zone filled with food, music, art, and activities. Don’t miss the Criterion Mobile Closet making its Canadian debut, along with outdoor dining zones and DJs keeping the energy high all weekend.
Free Outdoor Screenings at Cinema Park
📍 David Pecaut Square | September 4–13
Every night at 10 PM, David Pecaut Square will host open-air screenings of fan favourites and cult classics. This year’s lineup includes The Goonies, Uncle Buck, Before Sunrise, and Lady Bird. Screenings are free, open-captioned, and will run rain or shine.
Chef Masaki Saito’s Omakase Pop-Up
📍 King & John Streets | September 5, 5–6:30 PM
In celebration of the documentary Still Single, Canada’s first two-star Michelin chef Masaki Saito will serve free omakase at a 60-foot sushi bar pop-up. Expect culinary artistry from over a dozen chefs straight from Yorkville’s MSSM.
Red Carpet & Exclusive Lounges
📍 Roy Thomson Hall & Surrounding Venues
Get closer to the glamour with partner activations like the RBC Red Carpet Gallery (a top spot for celebrity sightings), the Campari Red Carpet Lounge, and the Visa Infinite Studio with live music and complimentary tastings for cardholders.
More Highlights
- Canada’s Walk of Fame: TIFF unveils its own star outside the Lightbox on September 4.
- House of Peroni: Chef David Rocco brings Italian flavours to David Pecaut Square.
- Prime Video’s John Candy Experience: Step into a re-created movie moment from one of Canada’s most beloved comedians.
TIFF 50 is more than film premieres — it’s a city-wide celebration of art, culture, and community. Whether you’re catching a free concert in Clarence Square, exploring Festival Street, or snapping a photo in front of Adrian Hayles’ mural, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.