Plan your Visit

Venue

Information

Screening location

City Hall Auditorium

Standing proudly at the center of Market Square, Stratford City Hall is one of the city’s most photographed landmarks. Completed in 1900 in distinctive red brick with sandstone trim and crowned with its iconic clock tower, this Victorian-era building is not only the seat of local government but also the permanent home of the Stratford Film Festival, making it a vibrant symbol of the city’s history, culture, and charm. 

Aerial view of Stratford City Hall surrounded by downtown streets and heritage buildings during golden hour.
Stratford City Hall bathed in morning light, showcasing its grand red-brick façade, clock tower, and front steps adorned with flowers.

Accessibility

The City of Stratford takes pride in removing barriers for citizens with various accessibility needs. Enter via the Plaza entrance on Market Square to take the elevator to the 1st floor.

For information regarding the auditorium, including wheelchair access and seating, please contact City Hall at 519-271-0250.

Getting to

Stratford

Plan the perfect stay

Stratford’s charming downtown offers excellent accommodations within walking distance of both screening venues, from boutique hotels to cozy bed & breakfasts, plus award-winning restaurants for dining between screenings.

Stratford’s culinary scene rivals its theatrical reputation, with farm-to-table restaurants, artisanal cafes, and pre-show dining options to suit every taste and timeline between screenings.

Revel Cafe: warm, independent café in downtown Stratford that combines artisan coffee with scratch baking and a creative, community spirit


The Starlight: a retro-chic downtown Stratford hotspot offering craft cocktails, seasonal small plates, and live music in a cozy, stylish setting


Loveage: a cozy neighbourhood restaurant and wine bar in Stratford whose menus evolve with the seasons, offering honest, creative dishes and thoughtful wines in a warm, inviting atmosphere


The Common: a vibrant, eclectic downtown Stratford eatery  where Chef Tim Otsuki fuses global inspirations into elevated comfort food in a warm, neighbourhood-style setting

 

Pizza Bistro: a cozy downtown Stratford spot serving classic pizzas, pasta, and Greek-Mediterranean comfort fare in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere


Navigate festival venues with ease using Stratford’s convenient downtown layout and ample parking options, all designed to get you from film to film without missing a moment

  • Free 3-hour street parking throughout downtown
  • Municipal lots at Cooper and Erie Streets
  • Stratford Transit connects to VIA Rail station
  • Complimentary bike racks
  • EV charging station on Market Street

Rest easy in Stratford’s diverse accommodations, from boutique hotels to charming B&Bs, many offering exclusive festival packages and perks for film lovers.

Foster’s Inn: heritage property with room packages


The Perth County: a hip boutique inn in downtown Stratford, blending historic character with modern, artful design


Bentley’s Inn: a newly renovated two-storey executive suites are designed with Scandinavian flair, combining sleek, modern aesthetics with cozy, inviting touches and lots of amenities


The Bruce Hotel: luxury suites, fine dining, and shuttle service


The Mercer Hotel: a boutique 14-room inn in downtown Stratford, pairing stylish accommodations with the lively Mercer Kitchen & Beer Hall just steps away

 

Explore local B&B options throughout Stratford through the Discover Stratford website.


Airbnb: offerings from $89/night in
the core

Outdoor café table with wicker chairs, set with wine glasses, cutlery, and a small potted plant on a sunlit patio in downtown Stratford.

Experiences in

Stratford

What To Do

Discover Stratford’s vibrant arts scene beyond cinema with gallery visits, scenic riverside walks along the Avon river, live theatre performances, and seasonal highlights like summer music or winter’s magical holiday charm.

Colorful row of heritage storefronts and shops along downtown Stratford, Ontario, with trees and hanging flower baskets lining the street.

Step into Stratford’s rich history and natural beauty with self-guided adventures and guided experiences that fit perfectly between your film screenings.

  • Free “Lights, Camera, Action!” film location walking tour app
  • Tom Patterson Island accessible boardwalk (15-minute loop)
  • Ghost Walk Stratford evening tours at 8pm daily
  • Shakespeare Gardens self-guided poetry trail

Immerse yourself in Canada’s premier arts destination, where creativity extends far beyond screens into galleries, theatres, and studios throughout the city.

  • Gallery Stratford featuring contemporary Canadian artists
  • Stratford Festival Theatre, plus it’s costume and props warehouse tours
  • Studio shops of 20+ local artisans on Ontario Street
  • Stratford Perth Museum (outside of downtown, but worth it)

Each season brings unique magic to your festival visit, from spring blooms to winter lights, ensuring your Stratford experience is memorable any time of year.

Fall: Spectacular foliage on the Avon Trail system

 

Winter: Market Square skating rink and Lights On festival

 

Spring: Swan Parade and tulip gardens along the river

 

Summer: Concerts at Upper Queen’s Park bandshell and Stratford Summer Music which showcases over 100 music performances