When people think about the Toronto International Film Festival, movies and celebrity red carpets probably come to mind first. But there are plenty of things to do at TIFF beyond watching films, and our TIFF experience this year reminded us just how much there is to discover.

TIFF Festival Street: Interactive Fun Beyond the Movies

First, we headed to TIFF Festival Street, where King Street was transformed into a lively festival hub during opening weekend. The street was closed to traffic, and visitors could wander between interactive booths, food experiences, cultural activations, giveaways and plenty of photo opportunities. This year, Festival Street also featured community and arts organizations, food vendors and special brand activations.

For us, this was a great reminder that you don't need a movie ticket to enjoy the atmosphere of TIFF. Instead, the festival spills out onto the streets of downtown Toronto, making the whole neighbourhood part of the experience.

TIFF Experiences: Riding the Breakfast Television Bus

Then, at 3:33 in our video, we were invited to join Stella, the weather forecaster from Breakfast Television, for a special TIFF-inspired Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour.

We got to see some of the iconic TIFF sights and soak up the excitement happening throughout downtown Toronto. It was a fun way to experience the festival from a different perspective, especially when the streets are buzzing with moviegoers, media and celebrity activity. And, we even got our 15 seconds of fame with a little TV time!

Most importantly, it showed us that TIFF experiences aren't limited to the theatres. Sometimes the adventure is simply getting out and exploring the city while the festival is happening around you.

Ferrero Rocher VIP Rooftop Experience: Red-Carpet Views

Finally, at 4:55, things got a little more glamorous.

I won a Ferrero Rocher VIP Rooftop Experience, giving us an exclusive elevated view above King Street and the Royal Alexandra Theatre. Fellow adventure seekers Lisa and Heather joined us for this fun event.

During the experience, winners were treated to a private lounge, drinks, and Ferrero Rocher chocolate. Most importantly, we had an incredible vantage point for watching the red carpet below as celebrities arrived for their premieres.

Our experience took place during the red carpet for Bad Lieutenant: Tokyo, which screened at the Royal Alexandra Theatre.

From above, the red carpet looked completely different. Celebrities could be spotted arriving below, while the energy of TIFF unfolded right on King Street. It was one of those unexpected Toronto experiences that made the festival feel much bigger than a series of movie screenings.

Missed my other TIFF 2026 adventure? Check out our Our Lady Peace + GAIL video, featuring the Q&A and live performance!

So, if you're wondering what to do at TIFF, don't limit yourself to the movie schedule. Explore Festival Street, look for interactive activations, check out special events and keep an eye out for unique experiences around the festival.

Because at TIFF, the adventure doesn't stop when the movie starts. Sometimes, the best memories happen outside the theatre.

Come adventure with us!