The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) is set to return for its 145th year from August 16th to September 2nd at Exhibition Place in Toronto, Ontario. This year’s CNE promises to deliver an exciting blend of extreme sports, electrifying performances, unique exhibits, and mouthwatering food, making it an unmissable event for all ages.
One of the main highlights of this year’s CNE is The EX Games, featuring an exhilarating lineup of extreme sports. A massive 12-foot half-pipe will be the stage for top skateboarders, BMX bikers, and in-line skaters. Notably, 51-year-old skateboarder Andy Macdonald from Great Britain will make his CNE debut, performing alongside other elite athletes in daily high-flying shows at the iconic Princes’ Gates.
In addition to extreme sports, visitors can witness breathtaking performances in the Aerial & Acrobatic Ice-Skating Show starring three-time world champion figure skater Elvis Stojko. The show promises an action-packed spectacle that combines aerial stunts with graceful ice skating.
CNE Aquarama waterski show also returns, taking place on the West Channel of Lake Ontario. Expect incredible flips, spins, flyboarding, and even human pyramids on the water from this popular show.
The CNE will also mark the 75th anniversary of the Canadian International Air Show. This year’s show features thrilling aerial displays by the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, the Royal Air Force Red Arrows, and the United States Air Force F-22 Raptor.
Wrestling fans are in for a treat with Classic Championship Wrestling. WWE Hall of Famers like Jimmy “The Mouth of the South” Hart, Tito Santana, and Jerry “The King” Lawler, along with other wrestling legends, will be on hand to entertain and meet fans.
Visitors can explore the MZTV Museum of Television Exhibit, featuring retro televisions and the history of TV. The Carnival Exhibit showcases quirky artifacts from the historic Conklin company, once a prominent traveling carnival.
In collaboration with the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), the Withrow Common Gallery will host “Bridging Eras & Galleries,” an exhibition highlighting important artworks once owned by the CNE. Through various art displays, walking tours, and ghost walks, visitors can delve into the rich history of the CNE.
The Bell CNE Bandshell will host a variety of exciting musical acts, including Manchester Orchestra, Big Boi, Brittany Howard, and Sloan, featuring The Hip’s Paul Langlois. The Bandshell will also showcase performances from Down With Webster, MacKenzie Porter, Bahamas, Born Ruffians, Ruby Waters, The Reklaws, April Wine, and more. The return of Drag EXtravaganza, Soca Night, and a Tribute to Bob Marley by Classic Albums Live adds to the diverse entertainment options.
The CNE SuperWheel, North America’s tallest traveling Ferris wheel, is back, offering stunning panoramic views of the Toronto skyline. The iconic CNE Sky Ride also returns, providing another thrilling way to see the fair from above.
For gamers, the CNE Gaming Garage returns, featuring the first-ever national CNE Master Clash ft TEKKEN 8 Tournament. Top qualifiers from across Canada will compete for a $12,000 prize pool in Toronto. The event also includes a Byte Sized Gaming Zone for families and young gamers, retro arcade games, and the FIRST Robotics Competition.
The Biinaagami AR Exhibition offers an immersive Augmented Reality experience exploring the Great Lakes, emphasizing the importance of water preservation with Indigenous narratives.
Ribfest is back at the CNE, featuring internationally inspired ribs, and the Food Truck Frenzy, where over 20 food trucks will serve up global flavors. Unique food creations this year include wasabi ice cream, a fried chicken sandwich with Kool-Aid reduction, and a two-pound doughnut. The culinary offerings at the CNE are as diverse and imaginative as ever. Check out the gallery for some of the EXtraordinary wacky foods this year.
Get ready for an EXciting and unforgettable August, blending tradition with new and exciting attractions for all to enjoy.
For more information:
210 Princes’ Blvd.
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