- Grace Mangos was the first person to enter the CNE, having waited since 6:30 p.m. on Thursday to get into the annual summer festival.
- The CNE officially opened on Friday morning, with guests streaming into the country's largest fair.
- The fair runs until Sept. 7 and is expected to welcome thousands of visitors.
- Mark Holland, CEO, previewed the event on Wednesday, highlighting the fair's creative food offerings.
- The 2026 fair features unique foods like a Kraft Dinner smoothie, nitrogen-infused Oreo treats, and pickle-flavoured coffee.
- Now in its 147th year, the CNE is pushing the envelope this year with more unique foods and fairground rides.
- The cost of getting into the park varies, with a single pass costing between $22.12 and $26.55 depending on age and ticket purchase method.
- Unlimited access to rides costs between $51.66 and $75.22, which may exceed budget for some visitors.
- A family of four can purchase a family pass for $84.07, covering either two adults and two children or one adult and three children.
- Children four years old and under can enter the park for free.
The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) kicked off its 2026 summer fair on Friday, welcoming thousands of visitors to enjoy carnival rides and an array of unique food offerings.3
First in line was Grace Mangos, who waited since Thursday evening to enter the fair. "This year on my bucket list was to come and be the first one in line — and I am," she told Global News.1
Now in its 147th year, the CNE is known for pushing culinary boundaries, introducing items like Kraft Dinner smoothies, nitrogen-infused Oreo treats, and pickle-flavored coffee.56
Mark Holland, CEO of the fair, emphasized Toronto's reputation as a food city, stating, "Toronto is one of the greatest food cities in the world and so we take our responsibility really seriously to be a big part of that."4
The fair runs until September 7 and features not only food but also musical performances, demonstrations, and shopping opportunities.
Admission prices vary, with single passes ranging from $22.12 to $26.55, while unlimited ride access costs between $51.66 and $75.22. Families can save with a family pass priced at $84.07.89
Unique food items include the KD Smoothie at Booster Juice for $6.69 (snack size) and $10.39 (regular), and the Pickle Cheesecake Pop at Mr. Pickle for $18.
The CNE promises a memorable experience with its eclectic mix of food and entertainment, drawing crowds eager to explore its offerings.
“The fair runs until Sept. 7 and is expected to welcome thousands of visitors. Mark Holland, CEO, said, 'Toronto is one of the greatest food cities in the world,' as the CNE pushes the envelope with more unique foods and fairground rides.”
Global News
