Experience Movies, Italian Cuisine, and Lavazza Coffee at This Must-See Festival in the Distillery District

Toronto is about to get a whole lot more cinematic this summer. From June 27 to July 20, 2025, the Lavazza IncluCity Festival returns to the Distillery Historic District, transforming one of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods into a vibrant, open-air celebration of international cinema, music, food, and culture. Hosted by the Italian Contemporary Film Festival (ICFF), this annual event has become a must-attend for film lovers, culture seekers, and anyone looking to soak up the magic of summer nights under the stars.

What is the Lavazza IncluCity Festival?

The Lavazza IncluCity Festival is more than just a film festival—it’s a full-blown cultural experience. Picture this: cobblestone streets lined with glowing lights, cozy outdoor lounges with signature red couches, the aroma of Italian espresso in the air, and a giant screen showcasing world-class films from over 20 countries. It’s a place where storytelling meets street life, and where every night feels like a European summer evening.

The festival is organized by the ICFF, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Italian and international cinema in Canada. Over the years, IncluCity has grown into one of the largest multicultural film festivals in North America, attracting over 250,000 attendees annually.

2025 Festival Highlights

This year’s edition is packed with exciting premieres, immersive experiences, and unforgettable moments. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Over 30 Film Premieres

The 2025 lineup includes a mix of North American, Canadian, and Toronto premieres. The festival opens with Napoli – New York, a moving post-WWII drama by Oscar-winning director Gabriele Salvatores, and closes with Diamonds by Ferzan Özpetek, fresh off its Audience Award win at the David di Donatello Awards.

Other standout titles include:

• Love and Bullets by the Manetti Bros., a musical crime caper set in Naples.
• Parthenope by Paolo Sorrentino, a poetic exploration of beauty and identity.
• The Body (Il Corpo) by Vincenzo Alfieri, a gripping mystery.
• My Place is Here (Il Mio Posto è Qui), a touching story of friendship and social change in Calabria.

2. Global Cinema

While Italian cinema is the heart of the festival, IncluCity proudly showcases films from around the world. This year’s roster includes stories from France, Japan, Ireland, Germany, Mexico, Nigeria, the Philippines, and Turkey. Expect everything from indie gems to big-name documentaries like Hans Zimmer & Friends.

3. Susan Sarandon as Guest of Honour

Hollywood royalty Susan Sarandon will grace the festival as the 2025 Guest of Honour. Known for her iconic roles in Thelma & Louise and Dead Man Walking, Sarandon brings star power and a personal connection—her mother’s family hails from Italy. She’ll appear at the Closing Gala at the Hearn Centre, a glamorous finale to the month-long celebration.

4. TO The Beat: Free Concert Series

Every night, the Distillery District comes alive with free public concerts as part of the “TO The Beat” series. From jazz to pop to traditional Italian folk, the music adds a festive soundtrack to the cinematic experience.

5. The Dark Side of IncluCity

Horror fans, rejoice! The “Dark Side” series returns with spine-tingling screenings of thrillers and supernatural tales. Watch your favorite scary movies under the stars—if you dare.

6. Food, Wine, and Lavazza Coffee

No Italian festival would be complete without incredible food and drink. Festivalgoers can indulge in wine tastings, Campari cocktails, Birra Moretti, and gourmet bites from partners like Eataly, Ferrero, and Barilla. And of course, Lavazza coffee is served throughout the event, keeping everyone energized and caffeinated.

7. Toronto Screens Toronto

New this year is a special spotlight on Toronto as a film city. The “Toronto Screens Toronto” series features movies shot in or about the city, including cult classics like Scott Pilgrim vs. The World and local indie hits like The Darkest Miriam.

8. Industry Panels and Special Guests

In partnership with Cinecittà, the festival will host panels on topics like adapting comics to screen, led by filmmakers Antonio and Marco Manetti. These events offer a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process and are perfect for aspiring filmmakers and cinephiles alike.

Why You Should Go

Whether you’re a die-hard film buff, a foodie, or just looking for a unique summer night out, the Lavazza IncluCity Festival has something for everyone. It’s a rare chance to experience world cinema in a setting that feels both intimate and electric. The combination of outdoor screenings, live music, culinary delights, and cultural exchange makes it one of the most dynamic events in Toronto’s summer calendar.

When and Where

• Dates: June 27 – July 20, 2025
• Location: Distillery Historic District, Toronto, ON
• Website: ICFF – Lavazza IncluCity.

Tickets for individual screenings and events are available online, and many daytime activities are free to the public. Early booking is recommended, especially for gala nights and premieres.

The Lavazza IncluCity Festival 2025 is more than a film festival—it’s a celebration of stories, cultures, and community. Whether you’re sipping prosecco under the stars, discovering a new favorite film, or dancing to live music in the streets, this is one Toronto summer event you won’t want to miss.

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