by Trina Stewart
As the heat of summer draws to a close and the hint of fall creeps up upon us, the stars begin to shine in Toronto, Ontario. Yes, it IS the most wonderful time of the year – the fall harvest, back to school, and most importantly, the Toronto International Film Festival.
Better known as TIFF to locals, filmmakers from around the world including Hollywood’s best take over the streets of Toronto to celebrate film.
The Toronto International Film Festival is a yearly event at our place. Coming from Cambridge, Ontario, my daughter and I commit to attending three of the ten days, along with a couple of impromptu visits during the week.
However, unlike the typical TIFF attendee, we do not purchase tickets to any of the films. We simply play it by ear and if we’re fortunate to get our hands on Rush Tickets, then our job is done!
Star gazers and locals may not realize this but there is a vast array of things to do during TIFF that requires low-fee or no fee.
Bell Lightbox
This beautifully developed architecture is a celebration of movies and the festival year-round. This year Fellini: Spectacular Obsessions is the spotlight at the HSBC Gallery, for the duration of the Film Festival.
This is the new heart of the festival so there will be a lot of star gazing in this area.
Star Gazing
If you’re strolling through Yorkville and Bloor Streets in Toronto, one cannot help but notice the swarms of people surrounding the Four Seasons Hotel, and various other hotels in the area. This is where the celebrities stay and hold press conferences during their stay. While the waiting may seem tiring, you are sure to spot a celebrity or two.
Dundas Square
The schedule is not posted as of yet, however, Dundas Square generally hosts special events geared towards the Film Festival.
Queen Street
Be sure to check out all of the events at Much Music as often they will host TIFF related events. This is also another Toronto location where you may get a glimpse of a celebrity or two.
Rush Tickets
Last minute seats may open up and people in the rush line will get first crack at purchasing any seats that come available. Sales are cash only and there no guarantee anyone in the rush line will get tickets.
Keep an eye on various websites like Toronto Life and Now! Magazine for upcoming events not posted as of yet. There’s always something to do and something to see during TIFF – the challenge is keeping up with it all!
Trina Stewart, from Cambridge Ontario, is a successful Sales and Marketing Consultant by day, and a Canadian Lifestyle Blogger by night at http://www.lifesablog.ca.