torontoist.com // TIFF 2010 Survival Guide: The Top Parties, The Hottest Spots

Acclaimed cinema aside, every Torontonian worth their fleur de sel knows that the Toronto International Film Festival is all about the parties—eleven nights of parties, to be exact. In that spirit, we've compiled a list of the top spots to get up-close-and-personal with the stars, exchange festival gossip, or simply be seen (paparazzi not included). Get your beauty rest now—starting later this week, you’ll be living in a city that doesn’t sleep.

Open Call at the Drake Hotel, September 9–18

1150 Queen Street West, 416-531-5042

THE CROWD: Fun-loving scenesters.
THE DRINK: Margot Tenenbaum Cocktail.
OVERHEARD: “So who's hotter: Natalie Portman or Mila Kunis?”

For the seventh consecutive year, the Drake plays host to some of TIFF’s hippest parties, guaranteed to be a hit any night of the festival. Don’t forget to stop by the Drake General Store to pick up a TIFF gift bag complete with Moleskine film journal and paparazzi figures.

Festival Opening Party at 99 Sudbury, September 8

99 Sudbury Street, 416-849-6567

THE CROWD: Toronto’s young and eligible.
THE DRINK: Champagne.
OVERHEARD: “Lanvin for H&M!”

Tucked away between King and Queen, 99 Sudbury always draws a stylish crowd. For the TIFF kick-off, DJ Vaneska and DJ Oliver are on the tables, while The Row and Opening Ceremony are sure to be on the dance floo