The complete CNE visit guide
The iconic Canadian National Exhibition returns to Toronto’s Exhibition Place August 16 to September 2. And with so much to do, eat, and experience in so little time, Quarter to Five brings the complete list to experiencing the EX.
The iconic Canadian National Exhibition returns to Toronto’s Exhibition Place August 16 to September 2. And with so much to do, eat, and experience in so little time, Quarter to Five brings the complete list to experiencing the EX.
Food
Possibly the biggest draw to the CNE every year is the wacky and fun food options available all around the grounds. From returning classics like Tiny Tom Donuts to new arrivals like Greek Goat, Los Vietnamita, there’s something for everyone.
Every year, new items are pushing the limits of creativity and flavour so be sure to scroll through social media to see what the buzz is ahead of your visit.
The Canadian International Air Show
Celebrating its 75th anniversary, the Canadian International Air Show will see the skies above come to to life, leaving your jaw on the floor August 31st till September 2nd featuring:
-Canadian Forces Snowbirds
-RAF Red Arrows
-U.S.A.F F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team
-Avro Lancaster Mk. X in formation with the B-25 Mitchell Mk III
-And much more!
Shows run on Lakeshore Boulevard twice a day at noon and 3:30 p.m.
SuperDogs
Back again for another summer, the uber-popular SuperDogs show runs August 16th to September 2nd with three shows Monday-Thursday, four shows Friday-Sunday, and four shows on Labour Day Monday alone.
This year’s theme is Hollywood! Be sure to catch the action at the Enercare Centre Hall D to cheer on your favourite fluffy friends!
Doors open 15 minutes before showtime and seating is first-come, first-serve so be sure to get there early to score a front-row seat.
ACTION!
World-class skating meets blockbuster cinema as skaters showcase incredible acrobatic and athletic feats at Coca-Cola Coliseum.
Special guest, three-time World Champion and two-time Olympic silver medalist Elvis Stojko, lifts fans out of their seats at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. August 16th to September 2nd.
Music
Speaking of performances, the Bell CNE Bandshell will be showcasing incredible acts every day with performances from Sloan (Aug. 16), MacKenzie Porter (Aug. 19), Down with Webster (Aug. 21), The Reklaws (Aug. 30) and April Wine (Aug. 31).
There are plenty of other performances happening around the CNE on a daily basis at various venues. Be sure to take a look who is where when you plan your visit!
The Farm
The CNE’s farm, located inside the Better Living Centre, brings you close to the barnyard animals you know and love with the opportunity to meet 100 animals. Say “hello” to piglets, cows, sheep, goats, and more!
The farm also includes hay pyramids and games, a corn maze, sand sculpting workshops and so much more.
Shopping
Take a stroll around the CNE and you’ll find shops wall-to-wall jam-packed with plenty of hobby, craft, and art stores.
Be sure to check out the International Pavilion, the Shoppers Market and Warehouse Outlets, among many other places.
Rides
No trip to the CNE is complete without yelling at the top of your lungs on some of the rides offered at the Midway and Kiddie Midway for the young ones.
Rides cost anywhere from four tickets to eight tickets and can be found all over the grounds.
Be sure to snap a scenic pic of the city high atop the CNE Superwheel or wave below as you ride the Sky Ride from one end of the fair to the other.