Spend a Perfect Day at the 2024 CNE

The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE), often known as Toronto’s end-of-summer ritual, is back for 2024 from August 16 to September 2 at Exhibition Place. This annual event promises a mix of thrilling rides, delicious treats, captivating shows, and much more, making it a must-visit for families both near and far.

Are you heading to the CNE from Pearson Airport? UP Express has you covered with a fast and affordable train into the city for the entire family. Don’t forget that kids 12 and under ride for free on UP Express. In just 25 minutes, you arrive at downtown Toronto’s UP Union Station, transfer to GO Transit and ride one stop to arrive at Exhibition GO Station, conveniently located at the gateway to the CNE!

Next, don’t forget to get a PRESTO card ahead of time to save big on CNE tickets courtesy of PRESTO Perks! PRESTO cardholders can save up to 44% on ride all day tickets purchased by August 15. From August 16-September 2 you can still save up to 37%.

Whether you’re a local Torontonian or visiting the city, the CNE offers a day packed with excitement and entertainment for all ages. Here’s how to make the most of a full day at the CNE!

Arrive at the Toronto CNE at Exhibition GO Station

Start your day off right by arriving at the Toronto CNE at Exhibition GO Station. Exhibition GO is located right at the doorstep of the CNE grounds, making it the best choice for getting to and from the CNE. If you’re heading into Toronto from Pearson Airport, UP Express has you covered for fast and reliable transit into the downtown core! Plus, consider taking advantage of the Group Pass available for groups of 3-5 friends or family members, which can save you up to 36% on one-way fares when travelling together to/from downtown Toronto to Pearson Airport.

Hop on the UP Express train in Terminal 1 and arrive in downtown Toronto in 25 minutes, with trains departing every 15 minutes. From here, easily transfer to GO Transit Lakeshore West at Union Station, ride one stop to Exhibition GO Station and arrive in the excitement of the CNE!

Morning at the Toronto CNE

Let’s kick off your CNE adventure with a splash! At an iconic building home to one of the CNE’s top attractions: FOOD!

Food Building: Right at the entrance to the CNE across from Exhibition GO Station, you will find the famous CNE Food Building. From gourmet treats to international cuisines and classic fair foods, there’s something here to satisfy every palate. Every year, the food building offers some new wacky CNE food, so if you’re daring, be sure to try them out! Check out the full list of CNE food vendors available at the Food Building.

CNE Farm: Next, walk over to the CNE Farm, where kids can interact with farm animals, learn about agriculture, and enjoy educational exhibits. It’s a perfect blend of fun and learning for the whole family.

Shopping: To end the perfect morning, explore the shopping options located throughout the CNE grounds, from unique crafts to the latest gadgets. Check out shopping for the entire family at Arts, Crafts & Hobbies, Home & Garden, International Pavilion, Shoppers Market, Warehouse Outlets, and more!

Afternoon at the Toronto CNE

After a leisurely morning of CNE food, getting interactive at the farm and some leisurely shopping, get ready to speed things up with all the afternoon's adventures!

Midway & Kiddie Midway: The highlight of the CNE for the entire family! Thrill seekers of all ages will love the CNE rides and games at the Midway. For the kids, there’s also a Kiddie Midway, where height requirements are lower, but the fun is just as high! Also, don’t forget to check out Kids’ World for a playground, onstage entertainment and a park full of adventures.

Air Show: To commemorate the final weekend of the CNE, from August 31 to September 2, there is an incredible aerial performance with the annual CNE Air Show! Taking place between 12 – 3:30 PM, this is something you don’t want to miss.

SuperDogs Show: Next up, head to the Enercare Centre Hall D to watch the infamous SuperDogs performance! Don’t miss this adorable and entertaining show, where talented dogs perform tricks and stunts that will leave the entire family cheering. Performances are daily, so check which showtime works best for you!

Outdoor Concessions: Lastly, refuel for the evening with classic carnival fare from the outdoor concessions located throughout the grounds. Whether it’s a corn dog, funnel cake or cotton candy, indulge in these timeless treats while enjoying the lively atmosphere heading into the evening.

Kids on the GO Adventure Club:Head outside the Enercare Centre, along Princes Boulvvard where you can step inside a GO Bus and imagine all the family adventures that await. While at the booth, sign up for the Kids on the GO adventure club. As a member, you'll receive updates on discounts, itineraries, and events. Plus, you'll get your own adventure kit upon signing up!

Evening at the Toronto CNE

As the day winds down, excitement at the CNE certainly does not. Get ready to immerse yourself in the evening entertainment of the CNE!

Live Music Performances: Enjoy nightly live music performances at multiple stages throughout the CNE grounds. From local bands to headline acts, there’s something for every music lover of all ages to enjoy free of charge.

Kitchen Stage: The CNE’s Kitchen Stage features renowned chefs and Canadian culinarians, such as Dwight Smith and Lindsay Greflund, showing off their culinary skills on stage for everyone to see! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or want to learn more about cooking, this unique experience has something to offer for all ages and levels of experience.

Food Truck Frenzy & Craft Beer Fest: Lastly, to end your perfect day at the Toronto CNE, treat your taste buds to a wide selection of gourmet delights at the Food Truck Frenzy, featuring a variety of cuisines from around the world. Some of the CNE food trucks include What A Jerk, Mustache Burger, Cheese Headz, and Randy’s Roti & Doubles. Don’t forget to pair your meal with craft beers from local breweries!

Tips for Families

• Safety: Enjoy a safe visit with designated family areas, security personnel, and first aid stations throughout the grounds.
• Weather Preparedness: Check the weather forecast before your visit, and bring sunscreen, hats, and comfortable clothing.
• Photo Ops: Capture the fun with family photo ops at iconic spots like the Princes’ Gates or near the Ferris wheel.
• Educational Opportunities: Take advantage of educational exhibits and demonstrations throughout the CNE, offering insights into science, technology, and more.
• Souvenirs: Don’t leave without picking up a souvenir or two to commemorate your day at the CNE. From plush toys to apparel, there’s something for everyone in the family to remember the experience.

Simple Plan at Avril Lavigne Greatest Hits Tour

While you’re at the CNE, take a short stroll to Budweiser Stage and catch Simple Plan and Avril Lavigne live in concert! Don’t miss the Canadian music icons as they hit the stage on August 16th for an unforgettable night of punk rock. Can’t make it to Budweiser Stage? Simple Plan and Avril Lavigne will also be performing at Scotiabank Arena on August 12th. Arrive easily as Scotiabank Arena is just a few minutes walk from UP Union Station. Get your tickets at https://officialsimpleplan.com/tour.

More Fun for Your Toronto Trip

Make the most of your trip to Toronto by exploring other attractions and activities throughout the city. Are you travelling with the family? UP Express has you covered with the best museums in Toronto to visit with kids. Even better, if you’re exploring the Ex with friends, UP Express also has you covered with the best places to explore in Toronto with friends! From family-friendly museums and parks to cultural landmarks and shopping districts, Toronto offers something for everyone to enjoy beyond the CNE grounds. The Canadian National Exhibition only comes once a year, so don’t miss a minute by choosing UP Express to take the whole family there and then take you home!