MOTIVE 2026 Festival Guide

MOTIVE Crime & Mystery Festival is back for its 5th year June 5-7! Uncover secrets and surprises throughout the halls of Victoria University in the University of Toronto, from conversations to workshops to interactive events.

Here is a handy guide to make sure you make the most of your weekend!

View the Digital Brochure here. Physical copies will be available at the Festival.

Box Office

Passes are available online and in person during MOTIVE.

The on-site MOTIVE Box Office will be located in the lobby of Victoria College.

Friday: 12:30 PM – 8 PM
Saturday: 10 AM – 8 PM
Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM

We have four types of passes to choose from and we're sure that one is right for you!

  • 3-Day Pass: Regular • $79 | Under 30 • $39
  • Friday Pass: Regular • $24 | Under 30 • $15
  • Saturday Pass: Regular • $36 | Under 30 • $20
  • Sunday Pass: Regular • $36 | Under 30 • $20

* HST not included

Some events require pre-registration. To see more details, visit our Box Office.

Masterclasses

MOTIVE’s Creative Writing Masterclasses offer the opportunity to learn how to craft compelling stories and bring captivating characters to life through hands-on lessons from acclaimed authors and industry experts. This is a 90-minute masterclass. All writing levels are welcome.

These workshops require separate registration. View the full list of Masterclasses here.

Visit the Box Office

Outdoor Events

The Outdoor Quad located out the west doors of Victoria College will be full of free programming throughout the weekend. Sit outside and read a book, enjoy live music, or listen to one of our free panels!

View the lineup here.

Crime Writers of Canada

Crime Writers of Canada (CWC) is a national non-profit organization for Canadian mystery and crime writers, associated professionals, and others with a serious interest in Canadian crime writing. Visit their tents to meet the authors and purchase books. Plus stop by their events:

  • Saturday, June 6 at 5:30 PM: Fresh Blood: Crime Writers of Canada’s 2026 Debuts & Hot Reads
  • Sunday, June 7 at 1:30 PM: Before the Book Deal: Crime Writers of Canada’s Rising Voices Read Raw

Board Games Lounge

Visit the Board Game Lounge throughout the festival to recharge between investigations and connect with fellow mystery lovers! Plus stop during specific times to participate in group games with the chance to win prizes. View the schedules below:

The Lounge will be run by 401 Games and Toronto Board Gamers

This room is included in the pass with registration. You will be required to show your pass at the door. Participation in group games is first come, first served.

Food & Drink

Snacks, sandwiches, and coffee will be available in the Victoria College Lobby throughout the weekend. There will also be a cash bar in the evening.

Propeller Coffee Stand:
Saturday & Sunday 10:30am– 4:30pm

Snacks & Sandwiches:
Saturday: 12 - 8pm
Sunday: 12 - 5pm

Cash Bar:
Saturday: 3 - 8pm
Sunday: 3 - 5pm

See the Author, Buy the Book!

The Festival bookstore, operated by the University of Toronto Bookstore, will be located off the main lobby of Victoria College in Room 115. You can browse the full Motive 2026 reading list here.

Bookstore Hours

Friday: 1 PM – 9 PM
Saturday: 10:30 AM – 9 PM
Sunday: 10:30 AM – 6 PM

Book signings will take place in the Victoria College lobby following each event. Events in the Isabel Bader Theatre will have remote book sales and signings in the lobby of the theatre.

Getting to Victoria University at the University of Toronto

 If you’re driving or using transit to get to Victoria College, we strongly encourage you to plan your travel in advance and allow extra time to navigate potential delays or congestion.

Subway Directions

From Museum Station

• When you arrive at Museum Station, follow the ROM signs
• Exit at Queen's Park and continue up the stairs.
• At the top of the stairs, turn left and keep left at the fork.
• Cross at the pedestrian crosswalk.
• Keep left and continue walking straight
• Keep left and continue up the ramp/stairs to Victoria College!

Watch the Video

From Bay Station

• When you arrive at Bay Station follow signs to Bay Street, Bellair Street.
• Continue up the stairs and make a right at the top.
• Walk south on Bay Street, crossing Bloor Street and continue south one block to Charles Street.
• Turn right and walk west, until you reach the Isabel Bader Theatre on your left.
• Cross the street and walk down the side street to the right of the main entrance of the theatre.
• Keep walking then turn left to be at an entrance to Victoria College!

Watch the Video

Share your MOTIVE moments with us!

From your book hauls to photos of meeting your favourite authors, we want to see it all! Share your pictures and Festival stories with us on social media:

Instagram
Facebook

Don’t forget to use #Motive2026 in your posts.

Browse the full schedule of MOTIVE events, screenings and conversations, here.

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