Nothing captures the essence of summer in the city quite like the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE). This annual fair in Toronto holds the distinction of being the largest in Canada, with a history that spans over 150 years. In addition to the classic carnival rides, games, live performances, exhibits, and, of course, all of that delicious food, the 18-day extravaganza is introducing an exciting array of new attractions to amp up the excitement!
An exciting addition this year is the Vegas-style fountain show (we’re looking at you Bellagio!) entitled Sparkling Symphony. This daily spectacle takes place on Lake Ontario and features a choreographed performance that combines vibrant music with 11 dancing fountains. The fountains can soar up to 100 feet in the air, accompanied by mesmerizing colour-changing lights and dazzling lasers that beautifully illuminate the show during the nighttime.
To cool down from the sweltering heatwave that’s sure to be happening outside, the CNE’s popular indoor skating show is back after a four year hiatus, featuring Canada’s own ‘King of Quads’ Elvis Stojko.
Also new this year is an event called agriCULTURE, which will feature a variety of educational activities focusing on agricultural trends of today and horticulture wisdom of the past. An educational seed planting workshop is available for kids and participants will be able to take home their newly planted seeds to watch them grow. An AR experience as well as agricultural crafts will be onsite as well.
Fantastic concerts and live performances are also on tap across the CNE’s seven music stages and, of course, no CNE trip would be complete without gorging on all of the classic fair treats like ice cream waffle and Tiny Tim Doughnuts as well as the wild culinary creations the CNE is famous for.
Keep an eye on the fair’s Instagram page for the 2023 Bandshell line-up and the exiting reveal of new and must-try food offerings!
