Canadian National Exhibition

Photo: theex.com

The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE), also referred to as The Ex, is an annual event held at Exhibition Palace, a publicly owned mixed-use district in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It is the largest annual fair in Canada and the fifth largest event of its kind in North America. The exhibition runs over 18 days in August and early September, closing on Labor Day celebrated on the first Monday in September.

The inaugural Canadian National Exhibition was held in 1879. The event was established to promote agriculture and technology in the country. The first exhibition featured scientists, engineers and agriculturists from all over the country who exhibited their inventions and discoveries to showcase the work and talent of the nation. The CNE has broadened its scope over the years, but agriculture and technology remain a large part of the event.

The present-day Canadian National Exhibition is an 18-day event that has become an annual family tradition to many people in the Greater Toronto Area. It consists of a mix of exhibits, agricultural displays, sports events, shopping areas, live entertainment, and a large carnival midway with games, rides and food. One of the fair’s main highlights is the annual Canadian International Air Show that takes place over the Labor Day weekend. It has been held every year since 1949.

What else does the CNE has to offer? Its rich and diverse programming includes a variety of events and activities for visitors of all ages and backgrounds such as walks & talks, stage, stunt & talent shows, sports games and tournaments, special events, live music, parades, special programming on the Lake Ontario waterfront, special activities for kids, exhibits, the CNE Innovation Garage, the CNE Casino, a farm, dog & cat shows, and more.

The shopping area at the CNE is divided into several parts and pavilions where attendees can find various kinds of products. They include the Arts, Crafts & Hobbies Pavilion, the At Home Pavilion, the Gourmet Kitchen, the International Pavilion, the Outdoor Marketplace, the Shoppers’ Market, the Warehouse Outlets, and the Parcel Check.

Many visitors consider food and drink to be a key part of the Canadian National Exhibition experience. Every year, more than one million people visit the Food Building that offers an impressive variety of food options. Besides, several licensed restaurants operate on the grounds. Food-related events held at The Ex include the Food Truck Frenzy, the Craft Beer Fest, and Ribfest.