Holiday & SeasonalAug – SepMarquee Event
Canadian National Exhibition (CNE)
The Ex — Toronto's end-of-summer ritual since 1879.
When
August 14 – September 7, 2026
Where
Exhibition Place
Area
Exhibition Place
Cost
Paid · $20 gate + rides/food extra
Format
Indoor & Outdoor
Attendance
1.5M+ visitors
Running Since
1879 (147 years)
Family Friendly
Yes
VT Insider Tip
Go on a weekday before 2pm for the shortest ride lines and smallest crowds. The Food Building is best tackled systematically — go early, split portions, and bring napkins. The air show (Labour Day weekend) is free to watch from the waterfront.
About
The CNE is a Toronto institution. For 18 days ending on Labour Day, Exhibition Place transforms into a massive fairground with rides, food buildings, concerts, an air show, a midway, and more. The Food Building alone is worth the trip — it's where vendors debut outrageous creations that become the food internet's obsession for a week. Love it or hate it, The Ex is peak Toronto summer.
What to Expect
18 days of fairground rides, food buildings, concerts (included with admission), gaming, an air show, and more. Expect large crowds on weekends and holidays. Budget $50-100+ per person including food.
Pro Tips
Buy tickets online in advance for discounts. Go Tuesdays for reduced-price ride all-day passes. The Food Building is the star — make it your first stop before lines build. Bring cash for some food vendors.
Getting There
509/510 streetcar to Exhibition Place, or Exhibition GO station. Parking is expensive ($25+) and lots fill early on weekends. TTC is strongly recommended.