TIFF Lightbox is the year-round home of the Toronto International Film Festival, at 350 King St W in downtown Toronto. Its five cinemas screen a wide mix of films, including independent titles, international cinema and classics, with strong sound and picture quality. Between screenings, look for film memorabilia displays and gallery exhibitions. The building also hosts talks, workshops and festivals, so check the programme if you want more than a movie. Smaller screening rooms have an intimate feel; streetcar or other public transport can be easier than finding nearby parking.
A year-round home for TIFF
TIFF Lightbox opened in 2010 as the permanent home of the Toronto International Film Festival. The festival takes place in September, but the building’s programme continues throughout the year. Screenings, lectures, discussions, smaller film festivals, workshops and installations give you different ways to spend time with cinema and film culture.
The building is at 350 King St W in downtown Toronto, in the city’s Entertainment District. Its location puts the festival’s main home close to other downtown attractions, including the CN Tower and St. Lawrence Market. During the September festival, TIFF activity also extends to surrounding venues, turning the area into a busy base for film events.
Films, galleries and learning spaces
Five cinemas screen films ranging from independent and international titles to classics and festival selections. The programme can include work that receives less space in mainstream cinemas, as well as older films shown on 35mm. Sound and projection are a particular draw, and the smaller rooms offer a more intimate setting than the larger screening spaces.
Film culture continues outside the auditoriums. The building has gallery space, including exhibitions related to Canadian film, and displays of movie memorabilia. It also houses a film reference library, classrooms and a members’ lounge. Workshops and educational programmes have included activities such as making a stop-motion film, alongside lectures and discussions about cinema.
Planning a visit
Choose a screening first, then check the schedule for an exhibition, talk or workshop that fits around it. Special events and film festivals add more to the programme; the September festival is the most prominent annual event, while screenings and other activities run beyond those dates. Membership is associated with discounts and events, so check the current membership information if you expect to attend more than once.
Street parking and paid parking are available in the area, but finding a space nearby can be difficult. Public transport, including the streetcar, is a practical alternative. Inside, the building has food and drink options, a restaurant and accessible entrances, elevators, seating and restrooms. During a screening, keep phones off and do not record the film.
Preguntas frecuentes
What is TIFF Lightbox?
It is the year-round home of the Toronto International Film Festival, with five cinemas, gallery space, a film reference library and event facilities.
What kind of films can you see at TIFF Lightbox?
The programme includes independent and international films, classics and festival selections. Screenings, lectures, discussions and smaller film festivals take place throughout the year.
When is the Toronto International Film Festival?
The annual festival takes place in September. TIFF Lightbox also has year-round screenings and events.
How do you get to TIFF Lightbox?
It is at 350 King St W in downtown Toronto. Public transport, including the streetcar, is worth considering because parking nearby can be limited.
