About The Fair
The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) is Canada’s largest community event and one of the top agricultural fairs in North America. Founded in 1879 as the Toronto Industrial Exhibition, the CNE is a not-for-profit organization that has enjoyed a distinguished history as a showcase of the nation. People came to experience the latest innovations in technology and commercial products, to enjoy the popular entertainers of the time, and to engage in a collective community celebration.
Although the CNE has changed significantly over the years, it continues to be one of Ontario’s great annual traditions and an event that offers substantial entertainment value for money. Taking place over the 18 days leading up to and including Labour Day, it is affectionately embraced as an end-of-summer ritual by more than 1.4 million visitors annually, visitors who reflect the rich diversity of Toronto and the region.
Highlights of the annual CNE include:
- Entertainment
- Concerts
- The Farm
- Food
- Shopping
- Rides
- Games
- Kids’ World (a green space featuring attractions designed for children 10 & under)
- Exhibits
- Park Entertainers & interactive experiences
- Expanded 18-day CNE Gaming Garage
- A three-day Air Show (on Labour Day Weekend)
Our Vision
Inspiring Canadians. Creating memories.
Our Mission
To enrich our community by celebrating the past, showcasing the present, promoting the future.
Our Values
- Fun
- Respect
- Stewardship
- Accountability
- Embrace learning and innovation
- Loyal to our history and traditions
- Client-focused
- Excellence
- Inclusivity
- Diversity
- Accessibility
- Reconciliation
Land Acknowledgement
The Canadian National Exhibition takes place at Toronto’s Exhibition Place, which is located on Treaty 13 Lands of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, and the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee, and the Huron-Wendat. Toronto is home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.
In The Industry
The CNE is not only active in and important to Toronto and surrounding areas, we are also a leader in the fair and event industry. The CNE is the largest and one of the longest running annual events in Canada and one of the top five fairs in North America.
The CNE is an active member of Destination Toronto, Festivals and Events Ontario, Attractions Ontario, Canadian Association of Fairs and Exhibitions (CAFE), International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE), International Festivals & Events Association (IFEA), International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), Canadian Association of Exposition Management (CAEM), Ontario Professional Ticketing Association (OPTA) and the Sponsorship Marketing Council of Canada.
CNE Association Volunteer Community-At-Large Member Positions
Our Board of Directors
Get to know our board of directors
Economic Impact
Strategic Plan