All blog images via the Canadian National Exhibition
From space exploration and live music to midway classics, Toronto’s favourite end-of-summer tradition returns with something for every age.
For generations of Torontonians, the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) has signalled one last chance to make the most of summer. For 18 days, Exhibition Place fills with midway lights, live music, carnival games, and some of the city’s most talked-about food.
Running from August 21 to September 7, the 2026 CNE brings back many of the traditions that visitors look forward to each year, along with several new experiences. Here are five highlights to add to your itinerary.
- Travel to the Moon at the CNE Space Experience
New for 2026, the CNE Space Experience invites visitors to explore Canada’s role in the Artemis II mission and the future of space exploration. Located in the Enercare Centre, the exhibition features Canadian space technology, hands-on displays, and a photo journey tracing humanity’s return to the Moon.
The experience ends beneath a 20-foot illuminated Moon, where projections show the lunar phases and aerial acrobats perform every hour.
- See Major Artists and Emerging Talent
Live music remains central to the CNE experience. This year’s Bell SOUNDSTAGE at the Bandshell lineup spans hip-hop, pop, reggae, punk, and Canadian rock, with performances by Lupe Fiasco, Lights, Shaggy, Silverstein, Tom Cochrane, The Trews, and many more. Grounds admission includes access to the general admission concert areas.
The CNE has also partnered with North by Northeast (NXNE) to bring emerging artists to new audiences. Plan your visit around a favourite headliner or stop by and discover someone new.
- Catch a High-Flying Live Show
Some of this year’s biggest thrills take place well above the midway. At the new Big Dip High Dive Show, elite divers leap from platforms as high as 80 feet into a 40,000-gallon pool near the Princes’ Gates.
Visitors can also watch trampwall acrobatics set to an urban soundtrack in Beat Drop or head indoors for Urban Edge, the returning ice skating and acrobatic show.
- Sample the Flavours of the Ex
Food is always one of the CNE’s biggest attractions. Along with nostalgic carnival favourites, visitors can expect the inventive creations and international flavours that have made the fair a destination for adventurous eaters.
Food Truck Frenzy and Craft Beerfest will also return to Princes’ Boulevard. Vendors will serve everything from Egyptian street food and dumplings to jerk dishes, churros, and creative takes on potatoes and grilled cheese. Come with a carefully planned list or simply follow the most tempting aroma. Either way, come hungry.
- Revisit the Classics
The new attractions may get plenty of attention, but the familiar traditions keep many people coming back. The midway will once again be filled with rides, games, and colourful lights, while the SuperDogs return with a new show, Fairy Tails. Families can also explore the CNE Farm and new programming at Kids’ World.
Over Labour Day weekend, the Canadian International Air Show closes the season with three afternoons of aerial demonstrations above the waterfront. This year’s lineup includes the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, an RCAF CF-18, a U.S. Air Force F-16 demonstration, and several aerobatic performers.
Make the Most of Summer in Toronto
Few events capture Toronto quite like the CNE. There’s food from around the world, entertainment for every age, and a mix of long-held traditions and unexpected discoveries.
Getting to Exhibition Place will become even easier in the years ahead. The Ontario Line, now under construction, will run from Exhibition Place through downtown to Line 5 Eglinton at Don Mills Road. At Exhibition Station, it will connect with GO Transit under one roof, giving people across the city and region more ways to reach the CNE and other waterfront destinations.
Which CNE tradition do you look forward to most? Connect with BAZIS on social media (Facebook, X, or Instagram) and let us know!