Film Festivals in September

TIFF is the film industry's favorite for a reason — a combination of world premieres, public screenings, and an open city that makes it feel less exclusive than European counterparts. Major Oscar contenders traditionally launch here, and the public can buy tickets to virtually all screenings. Toronto's restaurant scene, diverse neighborhoods, and September timing (warm, clear days) make it one of the most livable film festival experiences. The Scotiabank Theatre and TIFF Bell Lightbox are the main hubs, both in a walkable downtown core.

Venice Film Festival (Mostra) is the world's oldest — held on the Lido island, which physically separates the festival from the city proper and gives it an unusually self-contained atmosphere. The combination of Venice's canals and the festival's late August/early September timing makes this arguably the most beautiful film festival setting in the world. The Lido transforms into a film-focused village where encounters with filmmakers and critics are unusually relaxed. Public screenings are available in Venice proper for those without Lido accreditation.