The CNE returns to the city; which also signals the end of summer!
Making its highly anticipated return to the exhibition grounds, the CNE, also known as the Ex is returning to the city in full swing. The Ex is both the city and Canada’s largest annual fair, as well as one of the largest in North America. This end-of-summer tradition will be opening for the first time since May 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Brief History
For over 140 years, the Ex has been a running institution for Torontonians of all ages and backgrounds. When it first opened the Ex was a way to showcase Canadian agriculture, technological innovations, and arts. New technologies that were first showcased decades ago at the Ex were the wireless telephone, radio, television, plastics, and in more recent times, virtual reality.
Despite shifting over the decades to a more recreational event with midway rides, eccentric food, entertainment, and games to play taking the spotlight, the Ex is still a staple tradition for the residents of Toronto. It has and will continue to hold a very special place in the hearts and minds of many Torontonians for years to come.
Highlighted Events and Exhibits
Wondering about what is going on this year at the ex? We have highlighted a few events/exhibits to look out for at the Ex this year.
These are our highlighted events/exhibits:
Canadian International Air Show
The Canadian International Air Show is a must-see experience for people of all ages; although if you are close enough to the lake, you will hear it too. Notable features this year include the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, the United States Air Force F-35 demonstration team, and the Royal Canadian Air Force CF-18 demonstration jet.
CNE Heritage: An Immersive Experience
The Ex has not always looked the way it does today. At this exhibit, you will be transported back in time in an immersive experience to see how much has changed in the Ex’s over 140-year history. Take a look at what the Ex looked like in the late 1800s, early 1900s, or even the late 1990s. Who knows, you may even remember past fairs yourself and all the memories with it at this blast from the past.
The Farm
Be a farmer for a day. An ode to the Ex’s roots, the Farm is the go-to place for agriculture at the Ex. Here you’ll see the many trends in urban agriculture such as vertical gardens hydroponics aquaculture and balcony gardens. In addition, you’ll also be able to get up close to over 100 farm animals, pick apples from trees, and even milk a cow. Moo!
Dog & Cat Show
At this year’s Ex, there will be both a dog and cat show for you to see. The dog show will feature the SuperDogs in their new show, Pawvengers. It will be a performance of agility and skill as you watch the “super dogs” perform centred around a superhero theme. The Annual Cat Show on the other hand is a feline competition displaying over 100 cats from all over Ontario.
CNE Emerging Innovators Pitch Competition
Another throwback to the fair’s roots, this competition will feature innovators will all over Canada coming together at the Ex to pitch their inventions to win the prize money which is $200,000 per category. These categories range from Food Tech and Urban Agriculture to Women Entrepreneurs.
It’s Time to Visit the Ex
If there has been one thing missing in Toronto during the summer is this annual and end of summer tradition in the city. Great food, thrilling rides, fun games to play with friends or family, competitions, and amazing exhibits. You can bet crowds will be out in full force when doors open. You can even milk a cow!
Go out there and make new memories, experience new things, spend time with those you love, and enjoy the summer while you still can. There is no better way to end off the summer here in the city, so let’s go to the Ex!
