Embrace Summer’s End at the Toronto CNE!

It’s that time of year again – the end of the summer holidays draw near, the kids are heading back to school, the familiar cool breeze in the (evening) air begins to return…you get the idea. But, the fun isn’t over just yet! Embrace these last few weeks of the holidays (with the family) by heading down to the Toronto CNE (Canadian National Exhibition) at the Exhibition grounds to enjoy yet another annual tradition of Ontario. Being Canada’s largest community event and one of the top 5 agricultural fairs in North America, join more than 1.5 million visitors to immerse yourself in the rich diversity and entertainment of both Toronto, and the region.

The CNE offers substantial value for the general price of admission (for just $19.99 most commonly, all shows and attractions are free), so here are a handful of reasons why you should wind down summer with your own (family) annual ritual by going to the Ex:

The Activities and Entertainment Available to All

Seriously. As you may already know from possibly attending the Toronto CNE for yourself in years past, the Ex offers over 15 different types of entertainment and attractions for every age group to enjoy, each with their own, individual schedules. From 16+ various exhibits to explore, over 20 different international performers delivering authentic showcases of their own, unique styles, concerts performed at five locations throughout the grounds, to a special itinerary of events just for kids. But…that’s only a part of what’s on over this next week – get impressed by having a look through the complete lineup of shows and events right over here.

and that list doesn’t even include the rides and games…

Food and Beer Fest Frenzy

The food and drink menu is both mouth-watering and thirst-quenching. If you enjoy food (and we mean really enjoy), cuisine, are a hardcore foodie, and/or a craft beer enthusiast, then you’re going to love this (and so will the kids!). Food at the CNE is a huge conglomerate, combining the third annual East Coast Kitchen Party, over 20 distinct food trucks, Craft Beer Fest, and Oktoberfest to name a few. These do not include the multitude of other bars, restaurants, and food buildings on site as well. Here’s a sampler (or ‘taste’ if you will) of what you’re in for. It’s up to you – what will you, your friends, and/or your family be having during your visit(s)?

A One-Stop Shop ‘Till You Drop

It may not exactly be Las Ramblas Street, or La Bouqueria market from Barcelona, Spain, but shopping at the Ex isn’t anything to sneer at. A collection of items can be purchased from six different pavilions throughout the grounds, depending on what you’re looking for. Whether you’ve got a soft spot for culture and are seeking items from exotic international locales, or are just looking for a small souvenir to take home, you probably won’t be disappointed. Antiques, jewellery, appliances, home furnishings, souvenirs, discounted products from major Canadian retailers, and much, much more are all available. You name it, the Toronto CNE may just have it! Take a long stroll, and see what you come across.

So…? Sound like a thrilling day trip? The CNE’s official website is only a click away to discover all specifics (and we mean all – there are so many). Don’t forget about this article from blogTO for some interesting information sourced above as well. You’re in for quite a treat.

Note that the CNE is 18 days long leading up to and including Labor Day, running from Friday, August 16th to Monday, September 2nd, 2019. Check out the full schedule right here.

Round up the gang, the sunglasses, sunscreen, the supplies bag, and have fun! Oh – and you’ll need this too, that’s essential. Let’s go to the Ex!

(As a side note, did we mention that we wrote another, short post on this same topic way back when? It’s worth a quick skim, and you’ll find that here).