TIFF is here, and the question on everyone’s mind is where the best parties are (aside from what the best movies are, of course). Here, we’ve conveniently grouped the parties into the ones anyone can get into and the ones that, if you haven’t heard about them yet, you’ll probably need some serious negotiating skills to take part in. Below, 10 of TIFF’S best parties.
Public Parties
AmfAR’s Cinema Against AIDS. This annual shindig is a great opportunity to rub elbows with Kim Cattrall, Ralph Fiennes and maybe Bill Clinton and Madonna, all while supporting a worthwhile cause. Buyer beware: At $1,000 for the cheapest ticket, it is known as the priciest gala at TIFF.
When: Sun., Sept. 11; 6:30 p.m.
Where: The Carlu, 444 Yonge St.
Festival Music House. This TIFF event is a must-go for cinephiles who love music. Featuring K’naan, Sam Roberts Band, The Sheepdogs, plus a host of other amazing Canadian musical talents, this is the place where you’ll definitely be partying like a rock star. (Techically, this party is invite-only, but you can request one from the event’s website if you’re feeling lucky.)
When: Mon., Sept., 12, to Wed., Sept. 14, 7 p.m.
Where: The Mod Club, 722 College St.
Best Buddies Gala. Now in its 17th year, the Best Buddies Gala is always a star-studded event. September’s party will be honouring actress and humanitarian Kathleen Turner.
When: Sat., Sept. 10, 6:30 p.m.
Where: Four Seasons, 21 Avenue Rd.
OneXone Fundraiser. A powerhouse lineup of star musicians (Harry Connick Jr., Lupe Fiasco and Melanie Fiona) are lending their talents to raise awareness and funds for children in need. The event coincides with TIFF each year, so it’s likely your favourite movie stars will be in attendance.
When: Fri., Sept. 9, to Sat., Sept. 10, 9 p.m.
Where: Kool Haus, 132 Queen’s Quay W.
Live Music and DJs at The Drake. Every year, The Drake Hotel celebrates TIFF with live music, art installations and cool cocktails. For us mere mortals, on each night of the festival, the hotel’s lounge will be transformed into a cabaret.
When: All festival long.
Where: The Drake Hotel, 1150 Queen St. W.
Private Parties
Hello! Canada Red Carpet and Gala. Celebrating five years of being Canada’s celebrity news mag, you can bet there will be a slew of celebs — both Canadian and international — at this swanky invitation-only cocktail party.
When: Sat., Sept. 10, 7 p.m.
Where: Ritz-Carlton, 181 Wellington St. W.
Red Carpet Cares. Artists for peace and justice join with TIFF for this A-list affair to generate awareness and financial support for youth in Haiti and in Canada. Hosted by Oscar- winning director Paul Haggis, this is the perfect place to spy on celebs with big hearts (and deep pockets).
When: Fri., Sept. 9, 10 p.m.
Where: David Pecaut Square, 55 John St.
Canadian Film Centre Annual BBQ. This invite-only event promises “scrumptious fare, heavenly refreshments and savoury conversation.” Rub elbows with the movers and shakers of Canadian cinema — if you can wrangle an invite, that is.
When: Sun., Sept. 11, 12:30 p.m.
Where: CFC, 2489 Bayview Ave.
Hazelton Takeover Party. Last year, this ultra-exclusive party hosted Juliette Lewis, Steve Nash and, of course, George Stroumboulopoulos. The chances of getting into this party are slim, but it might be worth it for the chance to turn the tables and interview Strombo himself.
When: Fri., Sept. 9, 11 p.m.
Where: Hazelton Hotel, 118 Yorkville Ave.
Toro After Dark Lounge. Toro’s invite-only “lounge” is where A-listers and industry insiders go to unwind. Rumour has it Jon Hamm, star of HBO’s Mad Men, will be making an appearance.
When: Fri., Sept. 9, and Sat., Sept. 10.
Where: Ame, 19 Mercer St.