Planning to Visit the CNE in 2026?

Every summer, millions of people head to Toronto to experience one of Canada’s most iconic events—the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE), also known as “The Ex.” Whether you’re visiting for the exciting midway rides, live concerts, delicious fair food, family attractions, shopping, or the famous Canadian International Air Show, planning ahead can help you make the most of your visit.

In this complete AllReview guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about CNE 2026, including the official dates, opening hours, ticket options, ride passes, entertainment, transportation, parking, money-saving tips, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone who has attended the CNE for years, this guide is designed to help you enjoy a fun, stress-free, and memorable experience.

What is the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE)?

The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE), affectionately known as “The Ex,” is Canada’s largest annual fair and one of Toronto’s most iconic summer traditions. Held every year at Exhibition Place, the CNE marks the unofficial end of the summer season and welcomes visitors from across Ontario, Canada, and around the world.

Since first opening in 1879, the Canadian National Exhibition has grown into one of the largest and longest-running annual fairs in North America. What started as an agricultural and industrial exhibition has evolved into a massive celebration featuring amusement rides, concerts, shopping, international food vendors, educational exhibits, competitions, cultural performances, and family entertainment.

Today, more than 1.5 million visitors attend the CNE during its annual run, making it one of Toronto’s biggest attractions each summer. It’s a place where families create lasting memories, food lovers discover creative fair treats, thrill seekers enjoy exciting rides, and music fans can watch live performances included with general admission.

One of the things that makes the CNE unique is that it offers something for every age group. Children can enjoy kid-friendly rides and interactive exhibits, teenagers can experience adrenaline-pumping attractions, adults can explore shopping pavilions and food vendors, while seniors often enjoy the exhibits, concerts, and nostalgic atmosphere that has made the event a Canadian tradition for generations.

Whether you’re planning your very first visit or continuing a long-standing family tradition, the CNE remains one of the best summer events to experience in Toronto.

CNE 2026 at a Glance

If you’re looking for a quick overview, here’s a snapshot of the most important information about the Canadian National Exhibition.

The CNE is one of the busiest attractions in Toronto during late August and early September, so it’s a good idea to purchase tickets in advance and plan your visit before arriving.

CNE 2026 Dates

The official dates for the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) 2026 are:

Friday, August 21, 2026
through
Monday, September 7, 2026 (Labour Day)

The exhibition runs for 18 consecutive days, giving visitors plenty of opportunities to enjoy everything the event has to offer before summer officially comes to an end.

The CNE traditionally begins in late August and concludes on Labour Day, making it one of Canada’s most anticipated end-of-summer celebrations. Throughout the event, visitors can enjoy daily entertainment, midway rides, shopping, exhibits, concerts, competitions, and special attractions that change from day to day.

If you prefer a quieter experience, weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Families with young children may also find weekday mornings to be a more comfortable time to explore the fairgrounds, while visitors looking for a lively atmosphere often choose Friday evenings or Labour Day weekend.

AR Tip: If your schedule is flexible, consider visiting on a weekday. You’ll often encounter shorter lines for rides, more seating at food vendors, and an easier time exploring the exhibition buildings.

CNE 2026 Opening Hours

The CNE welcomes visitors every day throughout its run, allowing guests to spend an entire day—or even an evening—exploring everything the exhibition has to offer.

While many visitors arrive in the morning to beat the crowds, others prefer visiting after sunset when the midway lights illuminate the fairgrounds and create a vibrant carnival atmosphere.

Regular Operating Hours

• Gates: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Grounds: 10:00 AM – Midnight
• Midway Rides:
  • Weekdays: 11:00 AM – Midnight
  • Weekends: 10:00 AM – Midnight

Labour Day (September 7)

• Gates: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Grounds: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Rides: Until 9:00 PM

Although the grounds remain open late into the evening, individual attractions, exhibits, restaurants, and entertainment venues may operate on different schedules. If there’s a specific show or concert you’d like to attend, it’s a good idea to check the daily schedule before your visit.

Where is the CNE Held?

The Canadian National Exhibition takes place at Exhibition Place, one of Toronto’s most recognizable event venues located along the city’s scenic waterfront.

Venue: Exhibition Place

210 Princes’ Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario

Exhibition Place spans more than 190 acres and hosts numerous major events throughout the year. During the CNE, the grounds transform into a vibrant festival filled with amusement rides, exhibition halls, shopping pavilions, entertainment stages, food vendors, games, and attractions spread across the property.

One of the biggest advantages of the venue is its convenient location. Visitors can easily reach Exhibition Place by TTC streetcars, GO Transit, cycling, taxis, rideshare services, or by driving. Because parking can fill up quickly on weekends and during popular concerts, many visitors prefer using public transit.

If you’re staying in downtown Toronto, Exhibition Place is also within walking distance of several nearby hotels and attractions.

CNE 2026 Tickets

Buying your tickets in advance is one of the easiest ways to save money before visiting the Canadian National Exhibition.

Every year, the CNE offers discounted advance-sale tickets for a limited time before opening day. Purchasing early not only helps you save but also allows you to skip purchasing tickets at the gate.

A standard admission ticket gives visitors access to many of the CNE’s most popular attractions, including exhibits, shopping buildings, entertainment, concerts, demonstrations, and family-friendly activities.

Advance Admission Pass

• One-day admission
• Access to all exhibits
• Access to entertainment
• Access to Bell SOUNDSTAGE concerts (general admission)
• Children 4 and under enter free

Advance Sale Price: $25.11 (plus HST at checkout)

If you’re planning to attend with family or friends, buying tickets before the advance-sale deadline can result in significant savings compared to purchasing admission during the event.

Ride All Day Pass

If you love amusement rides, the Advance Ride All Day Pass offers one of the best values available at the CNE.

Rather than purchasing individual ride tickets throughout the day, this pass allows visitors to enjoy unlimited midway rides while also including admission to the exhibition grounds. It’s a popular option for families with older children, teenagers, and thrill seekers who plan to spend several hours exploring the Midway.

The Ride All Day Pass includes:

• Admission to the CNE
• Unlimited Midway rides
• Access to live shows
• Access to exhibits
• Access to general entertainment

Advance Sale Price: $51.66 (plus HST at checkout)

If you expect to ride several attractions, purchasing the Ride All Day Pass before arriving is usually the most economical option.

What Does Your Admission Include?

Many first-time visitors are surprised to learn that a standard admission ticket includes much more than simply entering the fairgrounds.

Your admission gives you access to a wide variety of entertainment and attractions throughout Exhibition Place, making it possible to enjoy a full day of activities even if you don’t plan on riding the Midway.

General admission includes access to:

• Live concerts
• Bell SOUNDSTAGE performances
• Ice skating shows
• Aerial acrobatics
• SuperDogs performances
• Celebrity chef demonstrations
• Farm exhibits
• Shopping pavilions
• International exhibits
• Children’s entertainment
• Cultural performances

Food, midway rides, carnival games, and certain premium attractions require additional purchases.

What’s New at CNE 2026?

Every year, the Canadian National Exhibition introduces a mix of new attractions, returning favourites, and exciting entertainment that give visitors a reason to come back. While many of the classic experiences that have made the CNE famous remain the same, each year’s event also features updated programming, new food creations, live performances, special exhibits, and limited-time attractions.

For CNE 2026, visitors can once again look forward to a packed schedule of live entertainment, the Bell SOUNDSTAGE concert series, thrilling midway rides, shopping pavilions, interactive exhibits, family-friendly activities, and hundreds of food vendors serving everything from classic fair favourites to creative new dishes.

As the event approaches, the CNE continues to announce additional attractions, exhibitors, daily performances, and special events through its official website. If you’re planning your visit, checking the latest schedule before heading to Exhibition Place is a great way to make sure you don’t miss any of the highlights.

Whether you’re returning for another summer tradition or visiting for the first time, there’s always something new waiting to be discovered at the CNE.

Bell SOUNDSTAGE Concerts

One of the biggest highlights included with CNE admission is the Bell SOUNDSTAGE Concert Series. Every year, the CNE welcomes well-known Canadian and international artists who perform live throughout the exhibition, giving visitors the opportunity to enjoy major concerts without purchasing a separate concert ticket.

Whether you’re a fan of pop, rock, country, hip-hop, R&B, or alternative music, the Bell SOUNDSTAGE lineup typically features a wide variety of artists that appeal to different audiences. Concerts are held throughout the event and have become one of the most anticipated attractions for many visitors.

The 2026 Bell SOUNDSTAGE lineup includes artists such as:

• Lupe Fiasco
• Shaggy
• Lights
• JoJo
• Finger Eleven
• Charlotte Day Wilson
• Tom Cochrane
• Matthew Good and His Band
• Dallas Smith
• Silverstein
• Glass Tiger
• The Trews
• Virginia to Vegas
• Raf-Saperra

Additional performances may be announced before or during the exhibition, so visitors are encouraged to check the official concert schedule for the latest updates.

Since popular performances can attract large crowds, arriving early is recommended if you want a good viewing spot.

AR Tip: Planning to attend a concert? Consider exploring nearby exhibits or grabbing dinner before the performance begins. Popular concerts often fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

Midway Rides & Games

No visit to the Canadian National Exhibition is complete without spending time at the famous Midway. As one of the largest travelling amusement parks in Canada, the Midway transforms Exhibition Place into a colourful playground filled with exciting rides, flashing lights, classic carnival games, and unforgettable memories.

Whether you’re looking for heart-pounding thrill rides or gentle family attractions, there’s something for every age and comfort level. Younger children can enjoy kid-friendly rides designed just for them, while adventure seekers can experience high-speed attractions that have become CNE favourites over the years.

Popular midway attractions include:

• Roller coasters
• Sky Ride
• Ferris wheel
• Drop towers
• Spinning thrill rides
• Family rides
• Children’s rides
• Classic carnival games
• Prize booths

One of the most popular attractions is the Sky Ride, which offers visitors a relaxing aerial view of the CNE grounds while travelling above the midway. It’s a great way to take in the scale of the exhibition and capture memorable photos of Toronto’s skyline.

The Midway is also home to dozens of carnival games where visitors can test their skills and compete for oversized stuffed animals and other prizes.

Famous CNE Food

For many visitors, the food is just as exciting as the rides.

The Canadian National Exhibition has earned a reputation for serving some of the most creative, indulgent, and Instagram-worthy fair foods in Canada. Every year, food vendors introduce new menu items alongside traditional favourites, giving visitors plenty of opportunities to try something different.

Whether you’re craving a classic snack or looking to sample one of the event’s latest food creations, you’ll find hundreds of options throughout the fairgrounds.

Some of the most popular foods at the CNE include:

• Tiny Tom Donuts
• Foot-long hot dogs
• Fresh-cut fries
• Deep-fried desserts
• Giant burgers
• BBQ specialties
• Loaded poutine
• International street food
• Fresh lemonade
• Ice cream treats
• Corn dogs
• Mini donuts
• Cotton candy

Every year, the CNE also showcases unique limited-time menu items that often become social media favourites. Past years have featured creative desserts, unusual burger combinations, oversized snacks, and internationally inspired dishes that visitors line up to try.

Food prices can vary depending on the vendor, so it’s a good idea to set a budget before arriving if you plan to sample several different items throughout the day.

AR Tip: Rather than filling up at the first food stand you see, take some time to walk around first. You’ll discover many unique food vendors spread throughout the grounds, each offering something different.

Family Attractions

The Canadian National Exhibition is designed to be enjoyable for visitors of all ages, making it one of Toronto’s most family-friendly annual events.

Parents visiting with young children will find plenty of attractions beyond the midway rides. Throughout the exhibition, families can enjoy educational exhibits, live entertainment, interactive activities, farm displays, and special performances included with general admission.

Popular family attractions include:

• SuperDogs
• Kids’ midway rides
• Farm exhibits
• Interactive educational displays
• Family entertainment stages
• Live performances
• Children’s activities
• Character appearances
• Daily shows

Many of these attractions are included with admission, making it possible for families to spend an entire day enjoying the exhibition without purchasing additional entertainment tickets.

The CNE also offers numerous indoor exhibit buildings, making it easy to take a break from the summer heat while continuing to explore.

Shopping at the CNE

Shopping has always been one of the Canadian National Exhibition’s biggest attractions.

Visitors can browse hundreds of exhibitors showcasing products ranging from household gadgets and kitchen accessories to clothing, beauty products, travel services, specialty foods, and Canadian-made goods.

Popular shopping categories include:

• Home improvement products
• Kitchen gadgets
• Beauty and wellness products
• Clothing and accessories
• Canadian-made products
• Local artisan crafts
• Gourmet foods
• Specialty snacks
• Travel and lifestyle products

Many vendors offer exclusive fair pricing or limited-time promotions during the exhibition, making the CNE a popular destination for shoppers looking for unique products or great deals.

If you enjoy discovering innovative products or supporting small businesses, the shopping buildings are definitely worth exploring.

AR Tip: If you plan to shop, consider bringing a reusable tote bag. It makes carrying purchases around the fair much easier and can help reduce the need for disposable bags.

Canadian International Air Show

One of the most spectacular traditions associated with the CNE is the Canadian International Air Show (CIAS), held during Labour Day weekend over Toronto’s waterfront.

This world-famous aviation event features breathtaking aerial demonstrations performed by military aircraft, aerobatic teams, vintage warplanes, and civilian performers. Thousands of spectators gather along the waterfront each year to watch the impressive displays against the backdrop of Lake Ontario and the Toronto skyline.

Visitors attending the CNE can enjoy excellent viewing opportunities from various locations throughout Exhibition Place, making it one of the most popular attractions during the final weekend of the exhibition.

Although the air show is weather dependent, it remains one of the most anticipated annual events for aviation enthusiasts and families alike.

Getting to the CNE

One of the best things about visiting the Canadian National Exhibition is its convenient location. Exhibition Place is situated just west of downtown Toronto and is easily accessible by public transit, GO Transit, cycling, rideshare services, or personal vehicle.

Because the CNE attracts well over a million visitors during its annual run, traffic around Exhibition Place can become extremely busy—especially during weekends, evenings, and Labour Day weekend. For this reason, many visitors choose public transportation as the quickest and most convenient way to reach the fairgrounds.

Depending on where you’re travelling from, there are several transportation options available.

TTC

The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) operates several routes that provide direct access to Exhibition Place throughout the CNE.

Popular options include:

• 509 Harbourfront Streetcar
• 511 Bathurst Streetcar
• Dufferin Bus (connecting to Exhibition Place)
• Exhibition Loop

If you’re already staying in downtown Toronto, the TTC is usually the easiest and most affordable way to reach the exhibition.

GO Transit

Visitors travelling from the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) often choose GO Transit because it provides convenient service directly to Exhibition GO Station.

GO trains operate on the Lakeshore East and Lakeshore West lines, making it easy for visitors from cities such as:

• Mississauga
• Oakville
• Burlington
• Hamilton
• Pickering
• Ajax
• Oshawa

Once you arrive at Exhibition GO Station, it’s only a short walk to the CNE entrance.

Driving

Driving is another option, particularly for visitors travelling from outside the GTA.

Exhibition Place is accessible via several major highways, including:

• Gardiner Expressway
• Lake Shore Boulevard
• Dufferin Street
• Strachan Avenue

Keep in mind that traffic is usually heaviest during weekends and evenings, so allowing extra travel time is recommended.

Cycling

Toronto’s waterfront cycling network makes riding a bicycle to the CNE another excellent option.

Exhibition Place provides bicycle parking, allowing visitors to avoid traffic while enjoying a scenic ride along the waterfront.

AR Tip: If you’re travelling from outside Toronto, combining GO Transit with a short walk from Exhibition GO Station is often one of the fastest and least stressful ways to reach the CNE.

Parking at the CNE

If you decide to drive, you’ll find several parking options available both within Exhibition Place and in nearby parking facilities.

Because parking availability depends on daily attendance and special events taking place during the exhibition, arriving early gives you the best chance of finding a convenient parking space.

Visitors should also be prepared for heavier traffic near the entrances during weekends and major concert nights.

Before your visit, it’s a good idea to review the latest parking information and rates on the official CNE website, as prices and availability may change during the event.

Parking Tips

• Arrive early for the best parking options.
• Weekdays are generally easier than weekends.
• Save your parking location using your smartphone.
• Consider public transit if attending an evening concert.
• Follow parking attendants for the quickest available spaces.

Accessibility

The Canadian National Exhibition is committed to making the event enjoyable for everyone.

Exhibition Place offers a variety of accessibility features to help visitors with disabilities navigate the grounds comfortably.

Accessibility services may include:

• Accessible entrances
• Accessible washrooms
• Wheelchair-friendly pathways
• Accessible parking
• Mobility assistance information
• Accessible public transit connections

Visitors requiring additional assistance are encouraged to review the accessibility information available through the official CNE website before arriving.

Money-Saving Tips

A visit to the CNE can easily become an all-day adventure, but costs can add up if you aren’t prepared. Fortunately, there are several simple ways to enjoy the exhibition while staying within your budget.

Buy Tickets Early

Advance-sale admission and Ride All Day Passes are typically the best value.

Use Public Transit

Parking fees and downtown traffic can be avoided by taking TTC or GO Transit.

Visit on Weekdays

Weekdays often have:

• Smaller crowds
• Shorter ride lines
• Easier parking
• Better opportunities to explore exhibits

Set a Food Budget

With hundreds of tempting food vendors throughout the fairgrounds, it’s easy to overspend.

Decide ahead of time how much you’d like to spend on food so you can enjoy a variety of treats without exceeding your budget.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You may walk several kilometres throughout the day while exploring the midway, shopping buildings, exhibits, and entertainment stages.

Comfortable footwear can make a big difference by the end of your visit.

Bring a Portable Phone Charger

Between taking photos, recording videos, checking maps, and using digital tickets, your phone battery can drain quickly during a full day at the CNE.

A portable power bank can help ensure your phone lasts throughout your visit.

AR Tip: Purchasing both your admission ticket and Ride All Day Pass before opening day is usually the easiest way to maximize savings.

First-Time Visitor Tips

If this is your first visit to the Canadian National Exhibition, here are a few practical tips that can help you enjoy a smoother experience.

• Arrive Early: Morning arrivals usually mean shorter entrance lines and easier access to popular attractions.
• Check the Daily Schedule: Concerts, demonstrations, performances, and special events may vary each day. Planning your itinerary before arriving can help you make the most of your visit.
• Explore More Than Just the Midway: While the rides are one of the CNE’s biggest attractions, don’t miss the shopping buildings, cultural exhibits, agricultural displays, food vendors, and entertainment stages. Many visitors are surprised by just how much there is to see beyond the amusement rides.
• Take Breaks: The CNE covers a large area, so don’t hesitate to take breaks throughout the day to enjoy live entertainment or relax in one of the seating areas.

More FAQs About CNE

We heard you, which is why Allreview.ca has compiled and answered most, if not all, of the frequently asked questions so that you don’t have to do the research yourself.

Final Thoughts

The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) continues to be one of Canada’s most anticipated annual events, bringing together thrilling rides, live entertainment, delicious food, shopping, family attractions, and unforgettable summer memories.

Planning ahead by purchasing tickets in advance, reviewing the daily entertainment schedule, and deciding which attractions you’d like to experience can help you make the most of your visit.

No matter if it’s your first trip to The Ex or your twentieth, the Canadian National Exhibition remains one of Toronto’s signature events and an unforgettable way to celebrate the end of summer.

For the latest announcements, schedules, ticket options, and event updates, visit the official CNE website: The EX – Official CNE