Toronto is famous for hosting the annual Toronto International Film Festival. However, film buffs will also be pleased to know there are even more cinematic festivals and events in the province.
On this page
- Greater Toronto Area (GTA)
- Hamilton, Halton and Brant
- Ottawa Region
- Bruce, Grey and Simcoe
- Huron, Perth, Waterloo and Wellington
- Northern Ontario
From short features to acclaimed documentaries, check out these engaging and entertaining film festivals throughout the spring and summer seasons.
Note: check websites for programming and schedule updates.
Greater Toronto Area (GTA)
Toronto Queer Film Festival
With the 2024 theme titled “Visions of Care and Collaboration,” the Toronto Queer Film Festival shares stories about building communities of love, respect and growth.
When: In person March 14–17 and online until April 14, 2024
Where: Ontario College of Arts and Design University (OCAD), 100 McCaul Street, Toronto
While here: OCAD is located in the heart of downtown Toronto, within walking distance of foodie hotspots such as Baldwin Village, Queen Street East, Chinatown and Kensington Market.
TIFF Next Wave Film Festival
Although the signature event takes place in the fall, Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) continues to foster year-round programming and special programs throughout the year.
Next Wave Festival is hosted at the TIFF Bell Lightbox and brings young filmmakers to the forefront for three days, with the spotlight on creatives aged 14–26 in various genres of filmmaking.
When: April 11–14, 2024
Where: 350 King Street West, Toronto
While here: Evenings heat up in the King Street district with a vibrant nightlife, while families will want to check out this list of 30 iconic family-friendly attractions in Toronto.
Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival
North America’s largest documentary film festival is celebrating over 30 years of superb storytelling by brilliant filmmakers from around the globe.
The festival takes place at the Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema in Toronto’s vibrant Annex neighbourhood.
Buy tickets or ticket packages to see a diverse selection of documentaries.
When: April 25–May 5, 2024
Where: 506 Bloor Street West, Toronto
While here: The Annex area bustles with a string of restaurants, pubs and shops and attractions along Bloor Street.
Toronto Jewish Film Festival
Jewish culture and experiences are captured through storytelling in film and documentaries from around the world at this poignant event.
You’ll need a valid email address when purchasing online tickets.
When: May 30–June 9, 2024
Where: Various Toronto venues
While here: If you’re looking for Jewish fare, Free Times Café on College Street hosts an all-you-can-eat Yiddish brunch buffet on Sundays.
Inside Out Toronto LGBT Film Festival
Toronto hosts the largest event of its kind that celebrates the 2SLGBTQ+ community in film, challenges attitudes and changes lives in a warm and welcoming space.
Emerging filmmakers are given a voice through artist talks, installations and panel discussions in-person at TIFF Bell Lightbox and online.
When: May 24–June 1, 2024
Where: 350 King Street, Toronto
While here: Find great places to stay and eat near the TIFF Bell Lightbox, such as Luma and O&B Canteen.
IncluCity Festival
Attracting over 58,000 guests every year, this is one of the largest film festivals outside of Italy.
This popular event is held every June to commemorate Ontario’s Italian Heritage Month and showcases outdoor screenings of captivating multicultural cinema.
When: June 27–July 24, 2024
Where: Distillery Historic District, 55 Mill Street, Toronto
While here: Stroll through the cobblestone streets of the Distillery Historic District and explore boutique shops, stunning art galleries and award-winning eateries, including Italian restaurants.
Female Eye Film Festival
This well-known international festival features women-made films with female protagonists. Many of the films are produced by local Toronto directors.
Watch incredible and thought-provoking films, which compete for festival awards like Best Short Film and Best Screenplay.
When: July 24–29, 2024
Where: Ted Rogers Cinema, 506 Bloor Street West, Toronto
Hamilton, Halton and Brant
Oakville Festivals of Film & Art
Having screened almost 750 films since its start in 2013, the Oakville Festivals of Film & Art (OFFA) has become a prominent cultural event that celebrates diverse storytelling.
Enjoy Canadian features and documentaries, as well as short films and documentaries from around the world. Numerous screenings provide special events and the chance for you to speak with the filmmakers.
When: Check the screening schedule for upcoming spring and summer events
Where: Film.ca Cinemas, 171 Speers Road, Oakville and The Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts, 130 Navy Street, Oakville
While here: From bakeries and cafes to brewpubs, casual restaurants and fine dining, discover great places to eat in Oakville.
Ottawa Region
Bloody Horror International Film Festival
This indie horror film festival is based in Ottawa but welcomes film submissions from filmmakers around the world.
View a wide range of amateur and professional horror stories, including feature films, shorts, animation, web series and more. The winner of the festival’s “Baddest B-Movie Award” will be exclusively screened on the B-Movie TV channel.
When: June 15, 2024
Where: Check Facebook for upcoming screening announcements and details
While here: Check out our list of must-try restaurants in Ottawa.
Bruce, Grey and Simcoe
Blue Mountain Film Festival (BMFF)
Blue Mountain invites you on a perfect movie lover’s getaway. Choose from a mix of acclaimed Canadian and international films while also enjoying local attractions.
Beyond great films, highlights of the festival include cinema-related events, fun parties and outdoor activities. Check out early bird pricing for tickets.
When: May 30–June 2, 2024
Where: 56 Jozo Weider Boulevard, The Blue Mountains
While here: Choose from great deals and packages at Blue Mountain. Enjoy shopping, dining and endless activities in and around the village. And follow the Apple Pie Trail to neighbouring communities for local apple-inspired treats.
Huron, Perth, Waterloo and Wellington
Grand River Film Festival
Waterloo Region’s annual film festival features bold and inspiring films from around the world, generating insightful thought and conversation among movie-goers.
When: May 7–12, 2024
Where: Various venues in Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo
While here: Find the best places to stay and things to do in the Waterloo Region.
Northern Ontario
Weengushk International Film Festival (WIFF)
The Weengushk International Film Festival is an important, not for profit, Indigenous-run independent film festival and cultural event.
It features award-winning and burgeoning filmmakers and Indigenous leaders across 57 films, five workshops, four musical performances, the opening night and a gala awards event.
When: July 2024
Where: Manitoulin Island
While here: Manitoulin Island is the world’s largest freshwater island and is home to rich Indigenous culture and natural beauty.
Queer North Film Festival
Attend one of the biggest LGBTQ+ film festivals in Ontario and the only queer film festival in Northern Ontario.
Spanning four days in June, this in-theatre festival is filled with film premieres, artist talks and socials centred around queer-themed films and videos.
When: June 13–16, 2024
Where: Sudbury Indie Cinema, 162 MacKenzie Street, Greater Sudbury and Greater Sudbury Library, 74 MacKenzie Street, Sudbury
While here: Explore the culinary scene in Sudbury.
credit: Destination Ontario
