Film festivals in Ontario
Toronto International Film Festival | Destination Toronto
From short features to acclaimed documentaries, here’s a list of engaging and entertaining film festivals for cinema fans to check out in Ontario.
Greater Toronto Area
Toronto Black Film Festival
Returning for its 13th year, this film festival celebrates Black History Month with a new lineup of innovative, provocative and meaningful cinema.
Screenings are held at the Isabel Bader Theatre on the University of Toronto campus.
When: February 12–17, 2025
Where: 93 Charles Street West, Toronto
Toronto Short Film Festival
Discover new, emerging and undiscovered filmmakers before they make it big at the 11th annual Toronto Short Film Festival.
Screenings are held at The Paradise Cinema.
When: mid-March 2025
Where: 1006 Bloor Street West, Toronto
Hot Docs Festival 2025
The 23rd annual Hot Docs Festival returns with more Canadian and international documentaries for curious minds and culture seekers.
Screenings are held at the Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema.
When: April 24–May 4, 2025
Where: 506 Bloor Street West, Toronto
IncluCity Festival
One of the largest Italian film festivals outside of Italy is held every summer in Toronto’s Distillery District to commemorate Ontario’s Italian Heritage Month. The event features outdoor screenings of Italian and multicultural cinema.
Complete your experience with a stroll through the cobblestone streets of the Distillery Historic District and visit boutique shops, art galleries and inviting restaurants.
When: June 27–July 21, 2025
Where: 55 Mill Street, Toronto
Female Eye Film Festival
This much-anticipated film festival features women-made films with female protagonists, many of which are produced by local Toronto directors.
Watch thought-provoking films which compete for festival awards like Best Short Film and Best Screenplay.
When: July 16–20, 2025
Where: various theatres in Toronto
CaribbeanTales International Film Festival (CTFF)
Celebrating its 20th year, this annual film festival features multi-ethnic storytelling from established and emerging filmmakers of Caribbean heritage.
Festival highlights include Q&As with filmmakers and curated thematic events and experiences.
When: September 1–30, 2025
Where: various theatres in Toronto
Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF)
TIFF, one of the world’s most influential cinematic events, celebrates its 50th anniversary. The 10-day-long festival attracts highly anticipated films from established and emerging filmmakers, scores of major film stars and endless glamour and galas. It also marks the kick-off for Oscar buzz each year.
In addition to red carpets and after-parties, the event features educational workshops, guest Q&As and screenings. Screening tickets, especially seats at a gala, are highly sought after. Become a TIFF member for early access to tickets. Check back regularly for releases or join RUSH lines, which open minutes before a movie, for the chance to secure last-minute tickets.
With five state-of-the-art cinemas, a film reference library and an art gallery, the TIFF Bell Lightbox is a movie lover’s cultural hub. Dine at contemporary seafood-focused LUMA or O&B Canteen for a post-film discussion or quick bite on the way to more star-sighting. Reserve your Toronto accommodation well in advance for this star-studded film festival.
When: September 4–14, 2025
Where: various theatres in Toronto
Toronto Palestine Film Festival (TPFF)
In addition to spotlighting Palestinian cinema, TPFF showcases Palestine's rich culture and heritage during the multi-day film celebration.
There is no shortage of dining options in Toronto; however, head to The Haifa Room to sample Palestinian cuisine.
Screenings are held at the TIFF Bell Lightbox theatre.
When: September 24–28, 2025
Where: 350 King Street West, Toronto
Planet in Focus Film Festival
Planet in Focus is Canada’s largest environmental film festival.
The multi-day event features live and virtual screenings of dozens of films from Canada and worldwide, each presenting engaging perspectives about important environmental issues.
Screenings take place at The Paradise Theatre in Toronto’s Bloorcourt neighbourhood.
When: October 21–26, 2025
Where: 1006 Bloor Street West, Toronto
Reelworld Film Festival
Marking its 25th year, Reelworld showcases the work of Black, Indigenous, Asian, South Asian and People of Colour filmmakers and actors.
The opening night event is held at The Royal Theatre with all other screenings at The Paradise Theatre.
When: October 21–November 2, 2025
Where: 1006 Bloor Street West, Toronto
Toronto After Dark Film Festival
Enjoy horror, sci-fi and action entertainment at the Scotiabank Theatre in Toronto’s Entertainment District. Some screenings include Q&As with filmmakers responsible for the indie cult films that will keep you up all night.
Kick the evening off with a pint at the legendary Horseshoe Tavern around the corner.
When: October 15–19, 2025
Where: 259 Richmond Street West, Toronto
Reel Asian International Film Festival
Canada’s largest pan-Asian film festival showcases works by contemporary Asian filmmakers from Canada, the U.S. and Asian countries.
Reel Asian provides a public forum for Asian media artists and their work with screenings of new and exciting films, workshops, talks and forums.
For a wide selection of authentic and fusion Asian cuisine, visit Toronto’s Chinatown.
When: mid-November 2025
Where: various theatres in Toronto
Ottawa Region
Ottawa International Animation Festival
See new worlds drawn in colour at the annual Ottawa International Amination Festival. Join animators and fans to celebrate the latest collection of innovative and striking animation impacting audiences and the industry at North America’s leading animation event.
Venues include ByTowne Cinema, Arts Court, Club SAW, Strathcona Park, the National Arts Centre, Château Laurier and the Ottawa Art Gallery.
Explore Ottawa’s diverse culinary landscape for the perfect meal before or after your show.
When: September 24–28, 2025
Where: Various theatres in downtown Ottawa
Hamilton, Halton and Brant
Oakville Festivals of Film & Art (OFFA)
OFFA has become a prominent cultural event that celebrates diverse storytelling. Enjoy features, short films and documentaries from around the world and, in some cases, the chance to speak with the filmmakers at the 12th annual event.
Discover great places to eat nearby, from bakeries and cafes to brewpubs and fine dining, including Hexagon, a recent MICHELIN-starred restaurant in Oakville.
Screenings are held at a local independent cinema, the professional performing arts centre and new to the event, a full day of screenings in Mississauga.
When: June 18–25, 2025
Where:
- Film.ca cinemas, 171 Speers Road, Oakville
- The Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts, 130 Navy Street, Oakville
Southwestern Ontario
Forest City Film Festival
London’s film community gathers to spotlight new and compelling films and filmmakers from the region each year. From documentaries to animation, these films offer a diverse showcase of creators connected to Southwestern Ontario.
For great fare to follow a great film, make reservations at one of many London fine-dining restaurants. Enjoy Latin cuisine at Che Restobar, food from the Salah region at Yaya’s Kitchen, the locally-inspired Canadian menu at Grace Restaurant or choose from the eclectic fusion offerings at The Tasting Room.
When: October 24–November 2, 2025
Where: Various venues in downtown London
Windsor International Film Festival (WIFF)
For over 20 years WIFF has garnered the attention of movie lovers for its celebration of Canadian and international films from diverse storytellers.
This festival in downtown Windsor continues to showcase excellent programming that recognizes female filmmakers and strong Francophone and 2SLGBTQI+ representation in cinema.
Dissect your favourite scenes over dinner at Nico Taverna or brunch at the Twisted Apron.
Screening venues include Windsor Capitol Theatre, Chrysler Theatre the historic Armouries centre.
When: October 23–November 2, 2025
Where: various theatres in Windsor
Southeastern Ontario
Kingston Canadian Film Festival
The world’s largest festival dedicated to exclusively Canadian film held at Broom Factory, an arts and cultural hub in Kingston’s Inner Harbour neighbourhood.
When: February 26–March 2, 2025
Where: 305 Rideau Street, Kingston
Bruce, Grey and Simcoe
Blue Mountain Film Festival (BMFF)
Plan the perfect movie lover’s getaway to Blue Mountain.
In addition to great international cinema, festival highlights include film-related events, fun parties and outdoor activities. Look for early bird passes and ticket packages.
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.
When: May 29–June 1, 2025
Where: 56 Jozo Weider Boulevard, The Blue Mountains
Barrie Film Festival (BFF)
BFF showcases award-winning independent films from all over the world, with a focus on Canadian filmmakers and their work.
The multi-day festival, held at Galaxy Cinemas, includes everything from family-friendly features to documentaries to short films.
Plan for dinner at Il Buco or grab a pint after the show at Barnstormer Brewing, an aviation-themed brewery.
When: October 2025
Huron, Perth, Waterloo and Wellington
Grand River Film Festival
Waterloo Region’s annual film festival hosts local, Canadian and international films.
Screenings are paired with panels of directors, film professionals, local interest groups and notable guest speakers for insightful discussions on the power of film.
Round out your festival getaway with attractions, events and delicious culinary experiences across the Waterloo Region.
When: May 21–25, 2025
Where: Various venues in Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo
Northeastern Ontario
Queer North Film Festival
Attend one of the biggest 2SLGBTQI+ film festivals in Ontario and the only queer film festival in Northern Ontario.
The festival, which spans multiple days, features premiere screenings, artist talks and social events centered on queer-themed films.
Sudbury is home to diverse dining options for a pre or post-film meal.
Films are screened at the Sudbury Indie Cinema.
When: June 13–16, 2025
Where: 162 MacKenzie Street, Greater Sudbury
Weengushk International Film Festival (WIFF)
WIFF is a not-for-profit, Indigenous-run independent film festival and cultural event on Manitoulin Island. It features award-winning and burgeoning filmmakers and Indigenous storytellers in films, workshops, musical performances and an awards gala.
Manitoulin Island is the world’s largest freshwater island, rich in Indigenous culture and natural beauty. Use the Manitoulin dining guide for restaurant options nearby.
When: July 18–20, 2025
Where: Manitoulin Island
Cinéfest Sudbury International Film Festival
Recognized as a premier film event in Canada, Cinéfest Sudbury screens various films, documentaries and short films.
The annual festival showcases high-calibre, artistic films with a special focus on works from Indigenous and Francophone filmmakers.
Discuss the day’s screenings at Respect is Burning Kitchen & Bar or the M.I.C. Canadian Eatery & Whisky Pub.
When: September 13–21, 2025
Where: various theatres in Sudbury
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Last updated: February 20, 2025