There's so much to see and do at the CNE that two weeks never seems long enough.
To help you plan ahead so you can see it all, we've compiled a list of all the new and returning events and exhibits this year. From a new American Ninja Warrior-style obstacle course to the classic SuperDog show, there's something for everyone at the EX.
READ: CNE Road Closures And How To Get To The Ex From Anywhere In Toronto
And, for those of you who can't wait until Friday, the CNE's famous casino is already open. Swing by from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. and place your bets!
What's New
Every year, the CNE offers new and exciting shows and exhibits. This year, new programs include:
The 50 Greatest Photographs of National Geographic: The CNE is the only Canadian stop for this travelling exhibition. Stop by and discover the stories behind some of the greatest photographs you'll ever see up close.
The EX Race: This American Ninja Warrior-style obstacle course will have participants scaling walls, crawling beneath cargo nets and sprinting to the finish line. Registration is free and prizes are available to be won. Will you be competing?
Raccoons Reimagined: These are the only types of raccoons you want to come across in the day. Princess Margaret Fountain will be surrounded by 12 six-foot-tall fibreglass raccoon sculptures for the duration of the EX. The sculptures come courtesy of local artists and youth organizations in Toronto and the GTA.
Godzilla On The Waterfront: Inflatable ducks are so 2017; 2019 is all about Godzilla. Take a picture with the "King of Monsters" on the CNE waterfront and get even closer with a free canoe ride courtesy of Toronto Adventures.
Ill-abilities Dance Crew: Watch the internationally renowned breakdance crew perform on the International stage from August 16 to 25.
Under $6 in the 6: Head over to the bandshell where you'll get a whole new food experience for just $6.
Woodstock Weekend: In celebration of the 50th anniversary of Woodstock, the CNE is hosting free Hippie Fest at the Bandshell featuring tribute artists, 60s style clothing and all sorts of retro collectibles. Grab your flower crowns and head on over on August 17 and 18.
The Bandshell will also be home to a new concert series this year with performances from iconic Canadian artists like Jann Arden and Buffy Saint-Marie.
The Classics
In addition to these new exhibits, the CNE is bringing back a whole bunch of classics like free concerts, the President's Choice SuperDogs Show, the CNE Gaming Garage and Innovation Garage, not to mention the International Air Show which will run from Saturday, Aug. 31 to Monday, Sept. 2 between noon and 3 p.m.
Other classics include the Silent Disco, which happens daily, as well as the Legends of Silk Road exhibit, The Mississaugas of the Credit First Nations Exhibit and the Unity Pole.
Don't forget, all concerts and events are free with admission to the CNE excluding the new 'World According To Canada' Comedy night, which costs an additional $40 per ticket. To find out what's happening on what date, view the CNE on-site schedules here.
