The Canadian National Exhibition - Fun for Everyone!

Looking for a great way to spend your summer vacation out of town yet still in familiar surroundings? Well, take a look at one of Canada's most famous yearly event - the Canadian National Exhibition!

Held for two weeks at the end of August, this county fair/amusement park/exhibition has been held for over a hundred years and shows no signs of disappearing anytime soon! But what's the appeal and what can you expect to see and experience if you visit?

First, let's take a short look at the history of the CNE. In the late 1800's agricultural fairs were shifted around the province of Ontario yearly, allowing small towns to host this event. But Toronto, a growing city, made a bid to not only become the pernament host but to also dedicate land specifically to hold this event each and every year - no more tents, no more muddy ground. Buildings were built and soon over two hundred acres were in use each year for what was then called the Toronto Industrial Exhibition. In the 1930's an amusement group won the contract to run a midway, consisting of rides and booths to entertain the visitors not already involved in either the agricultural events or gawking at the exhibits.

During the Second World War the CNE grounds were taken over by the military and used as a staging area for Canadian troops preparing to go overseas. Soon after the war ended the CNE returned in all its glory to amuse and entertain anyone lucky enough to wander through the gates and onto one of the biggest parties of the year.

There are many features to the CNE that will appeal to any visitor, be they five or fifty years old - let's take a look at some of the more popular features that will have you considering the CNE for your next vacation!