Can you believe it? It’s already time for the 139th Canadian National Exhibition!
In 2016, the CNE attracted 1.54 million visitors to the fair and this year’s event is expected to draw them in again in huge numbers.
Rides galore, food and entertainment will all be part of the action this year and CNE CEO Virgina Ludy says its not your grandparent’s Ex any longer!
One of North America’s largest annual fairs, the CNE offers up 18 days of amusement park rides, live entertainment, food, shopping, and more. And, if you’re an airplane enthusiast, the Canadian International Air Show drops jaws every summer when their pilots perform dare-devil loop-de-loops and synchronized maneuvers on the last weekend of the summer. Alongside the rides, games and food, the CNE boast loads of concerts, performances and special events.
New this year:
An 8-ft tall CNE sign with a Canadian maple leaf (to commemorate Canada’s 150th) will be illuminated on the west end of the Exhibition grounds near the Princess Margaret Fountain.
The Quilt of Belonging, featuring 263 quilted squares representing 71 indigenous groups and 192 nationalities found in Canada, a Celebrate Canada photography and art exhibit will also be featured in commemoration of Canada 150.
The CNE Gaming Garage will feature video game developers and exhibitors, a tabletop gaming library and a place to play and watch eSports.
In celebration of Canada’s indigenous heritage, the CNE has commissioned Ojibway artist Kris Nahrgang to create a colourful Unity Pole that incorporates indigenous universal symbols carved into a 25-ft tall cedar tree.
MZ Laser – Laser Illusion Experience, an electrifying spectacle combines cutting-edge technology and advanced magical feats to create a stunning visual experience.
Grab your lobster bib and get ready for the CNE’s first-ever East Coast Kitchen Party, on August 19th & 20th.
A thrilling acrobatic experience, Trampo Wall debuts to showcase performers walking on vertical walls, entering into windows and bouncing off roofs.
A few other highlights:
There’s no shortage of entertainment this year. The crowd-pleasing Acrobatics and Ice Skating Showreturns to the CNE this year with a new incarnation Oh Canada! Elvis Stojko headlines the show.
Food Truck Frenzy, featuring a wide variety of tasty treats returns as does the Craft Beer Fest from August 25 – 27th.
The Bandshell is locked with concerts each night, including a performance from A Tribe Called Red and the Northern Comfort Saloon is back, featuring performances by acts such as Chris Buck Band and Ty Baynton.
The casino offers a beautiful outdoor patio to soak up the sun, grab a drink and enjoy a few of midway treats.
Of course, arguably one of the biggest crowd-drawers is the food. The CNE never fails to bring unique and exciting food creations to the Toronto Star Food Building. The building has drawn more than one million people in past years and has featured fun concoctions such as a churro cheeseburger and poutine corn dog.
August 18 – September 4, 2017
Regular Hours:
Gates 10 am – 10 pm
Grounds 10 am – Midnight
Labour Day Hours:
Gates 10 am – 5 pm
Grounds 10 am – 9 pm
The CNE runs today until September 4th. For more information CLICK HERE.
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