Hot Docs regrets to announce that due to the recent declaration by the World Health Organization of COVID-19 as a pandemic, and with the health and safety of Hot Docs participants at our Festival as our first priority, we will be postponing this year’s Festival, which was scheduled for April 30-May 10 in Toronto.

This follows Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer having called for the immediate suspension of gatherings with more than 250 people and also having learned that many companies are placing restrictions on their employees’ attendance at large events.

We remain committed to bringing these outstanding documentary films to our audiences and are currently investigating ways that we can do so at a later date.

This year’s industry market will be presented online, where top decision makers from around the world will be connected with talented filmmakers. The Doc Shop, our secure viewing room, will be this year’s hub for industry content including the Hot Docs Forum pitches and feedback, professional development sessions and a selection of 2020 Festival films.

All industry passes will be streamlined into a new All-Access Online Pass. Learn more >>



These decisions were made after consultations with major partners, stakeholders, and local public health authorities.

We will continue to provide updates as details of our planning to bring the outstanding documentary films to our audiences become available, and to deliver the event’s valuable sessions to filmmakers, producers and decision makers.

Thank you to our Hot Docs community for your patience and understanding as we undergo this difficult process.

Click here for updates on the status of Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema.



