Toronto
#1 Entertainment Industry Event
Julia Roberts, Lady Gaga, and Viola Davis were among the leading ladies in Toronto for this year’s festival, which draws international media and kick-starts industry award conversations. Bell remained the lead sponsor for this massive 11-day event that screened more films (342) from more countries (83) than last year. The TIFF street party on opening weekend was free and family-friendly. Next: September 2019
Montreal
#2 Entertainment Industry Event
More than two million comedy fans attended the comedy festival this year, with Bell as a new sponsor. The festival included more than 350 artists, more than 40 free outdoor performances, and more TV and podcast recordings than in the past. Big names in attendance included Dave Chappelle, Amy Schumer, Trevor Noah, Wanda Sykes, and Tiffany Haddish. Next: July 2019
Toronto
#3 Entertainment Industry Event (up from #4)
For its 25th anniversary in 2018, Hot Docs continued to break attendance records, with 223,000 doc lovers screening 247 films at 16 venues over 11 days. Scotiabank returned as the presenting partner, with Netflix and Samsung also supporting the festival. Next: Spring 2019
Vancouver
#4 Entertainment Industry Event
About 130,000 filmgoers are expected to take in around 320 films from some 75 countries this year, with a schedule packed with 450 public screenings. Expanded live music and conference offerings are anticipated, while a 2017 highlight was the Kronos Quartet performing a live score to director Guy Maddin’s film The Green Fog. Telus remains the premier partner. Next: September 27-October 12, 2018
Edmonton
#5 Entertainment Industry Event
The 11-day festival put on 1,661 indoor performances at 39 venues over 11 days this year. Campari was on site mixing up Aperol Spritz beverages to sip while listening to the music series, and the Alberta Motor Association sponsored the Fringe map. KidsFringe grew this year, introducing a playground, splash park, and theater for young audiences. Next: August 15-25, 2019
Toronto
#6 Entertainment Industry Event
Returning to the Sony Centre for the Performing Arts in 2018, comedians Jonny Harris and Emma Hunter hosted the gala this year, where writer Margaret Atwood and broadcaster Peter Mansbridge were honored. Sponsors included CBC, Telefilm, Bell Media, Netflix, Canada Media Fund, Cineplex, and Cogeco Fund. Next: March 2019
St. John's
#7 Entertainment Industry Event
Attendance was expected to be level this year, with 4,500 attendees viewing 10 feature films and 38 shorts made by women at four St. John’s venues. Screenings include two features shot locally with local directors. CBC and Telefilm Canada will be sponsors. Next: October 17-21, 2018
