FAQ

In-Person Events

When is the Festival?

The 2024 edition of the MOTIVE Crime & Mystery Festival will take place June 7–9. The 2024 Toronto International Festival of Authors will run September 19–29.

Where is the Festival held?

Most TIFA events take place at Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON) unless otherwise specified. To confirm venue locations, please review each event’s dedicated webpage. Learn more about getting to Harbourfront Centre, here.

Where do I purchase admission to MOTIVE? 

You may browse the full 2024 MOTIVE Festival schedule, here.

A MOTIVE Pass is your ticket to explore as much of the Festival as you wish. Come for a day or join for all three! Choose the type and duration that suits you best. Passes are required to attend most author conversations, but are not required for events indicated as FREE on the schedule. 

Masterclass admission is sold as a single ticket purchase.

No individual tickets will be sold for Festival events that require a Pass.

To purchase Passes or masterclass tickets, visit the online box office, here. Alternatively, you may contact Harbourfront Centre’s box office at 416-973-4000 (select option #1) or tickets@harbourfrontcentre.com for assistance. 

Will individual tickets go on sale for MOTIVE events? 

No individual tickets will be released for Festival events that require Pass access.

Are there any discounts for book clubs? 

Yes! Book Clubs can save 25% on prices when booking five or more passes on the same day, by calling the Harbourfront Centre Box Office 416-973-4000 (choose option 1).

How can I buy the book?

The Festival’s official booksellers are Indigo and Rakuten Kobo. E-books and audiobooks can be purchased from Kobo, and paperbacks or hardcovers can be purchased from Indigo. Browse the full Festival reading list here.

Will there be book signings?

Yes! Most authors will be signing books immediately after their scheduled events. Most book signings will take place in the Marilyn Brewer Community Space. Book signings are free to attend.

I purchased a Pass, but never received one in my email!

When you purchase a MOTIVE pass or registered for a Masterclass, you should receive an e-ticket delivered to your email address from the box office. If you have not received your e-ticket, please contact tickets@harbourfrontcentre.com or visit the Information Desk with your booking information when you arrive, and a member of the Harbourfront Centre box office team will assist you.

Questions? Call the Harbourfront Box Office at 416-973-4000 (select option #1).

What is TIFA’s refund policy?

Please note that ticket sales are final and non-refundable unless an event is cancelled or postponed. In these rare circumstances, ticket-holders will be notified by phone or email of the event cancellation or postponement and a refund for the ticket(s) purchased will be issued. A notice will also be posted on the website and at the venue.

Questions about ticket purchases can be directed to tickets@harbourfrontcentre.com.

How will my visit be impacted by COVID-19?

Following Ontario provincial health guidelines, Harbourfront Centre has modified its restrictions at its campus and venues. They are as follows:

  • As of May 2, 2022, visitors to Harbourfront Centre’s campus and venues will no longer be required to wear a mask; however, we strongly recommend doing so.
  • Harbourfront Centre will no longer be checking proof of vaccination for the public, but the mandatory vaccination policy for staff, contractors, artists and volunteers continues to be in effect.
  • Health and safety precautions, including enhanced cleaning routines, remain in place, and we ask that any visitors who feel unwell to please postpone their visit.

For more health and safety information, click here.

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