Gates open at CNE to kick off massive 2026 summer fair

Gates opened at the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) in Toronto on Friday, marking the start of its 147th year as the nation's largest summer fair. Visitors began arriving in large numbers shortly after the doors opened, with Grace Mangos becoming the first person to enter the event. Mangos had been waiting since 6:30 p.m. on Thursday for her chance to be the first guest through the gates. “This year on my bucket list was to come and be the first one in line, and I am,” she told Global News. The CNE, held near Toronto’s waterfront, runs from Friday, August 21, to Sunday, September 7, and is expected to attract thousands of attendees over the course of the week. This year’s edition promises a mix of traditional attractions and innovative offerings, including new food items such as a Kraft Dinner smoothie, nitrogen-infused Oreo treats, and pickle-flavored coffee. These unique culinary creations reflect the fair’s ongoing effort to push boundaries while staying true to its roots as a celebration of Canadian culture and community. Mark Holland, CEO of the CNE, emphasized the importance of Toronto’s reputation as a global food city during a preview of the event earlier in the week. “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,” he said. Holland praised the creativity of the vendors and chefs who contribute to the fair, noting that many of their dishes are both imaginative and delicious. “There’s so much creativity that goes into this. The folks that we work with, I love seeing what they come up with and a lot of it is actually super delicious.” In addition to its food and entertainment options, the CNE features a wide range of activities designed to appeal to all age groups. Musical performances, live demonstrations, and shopping opportunities are among the highlights of the event. The fairgrounds are known for their vibrant atmosphere, with carnival rides, games, and family-friendly activities drawing crowds throughout the day. The combination of nostalgia and innovation makes the CNE a beloved tradition for many Torontonians and visitors alike. The CNE has long served as a cultural touchstone for the city, offering a space where people can gather, celebrate, and connect. Its history dates back to 1886, making it one of the oldest continuous public exhibitions in North America. Over the years, the fair has adapted to changing tastes and trends, incorporating new technologies, sustainable practices, and diverse programming to remain relevant. This year’s lineup reflects that commitment to evolution, with a focus on both local flavor and global influence. As the fair continues to draw visitors, organizers expect a busy weekend ahead. With the opening day already seeing a steady flow of attendees, the coming days are likely to see even higher turnout. The CNE remains a key part of Toronto’s summer calendar, blending entertainment, education, and community engagement in a way that few other events can match. As the fair progresses, fans of food, music, and fun will have plenty to enjoy over the next two weeks.