When is the CNE?
The CNE is always planned so the final weekend coincides with the Labour Day weekend before school begins. In general, this puts it in the last weeks of August and into the first few days of September.
In 2012, the CNE runs from August 17th - September 3rd.
Where is the CNE?
The CNE has its own fairgrounds, referred to year-round as Exhibition Place. The grounds are located on the shore of Lake Ontario, south of the Gardiner Expressway extending just past Dufferin Street to the west and Strachan Avenue in the east. This puts Exhibition Place just west of what is usually considered the heart of Downtown Toronto.
Getting to the CNE
Exhibition Place is easily reached by both TTC and GO Transit, which both add extra service during the fair. There is also paid parking available.
- Learn more on getting to the CNE, visit the "Plan Your Visit" section of TheEx.com
What is There to Do at the CNE?
The short answer to this question is "lots". The CNE has midways, games, street performers and stadium shows, massive sales, mounds of food and the "exhibitions" that give the event its name, such as agricultural displays and the annual horse show. There are special areas for younger children including a kid-friendly midway and a petting zoo. The more mature may appreciate the onsite casino. The final weekend always includes the Air Show, and in the first few days Warrior Day celebrates veterans and current members of Canadian and international forces.
To see what's on this year, visit TheEx.com for a day-by-day schedule.