The Canadian National Exhibition is a summer rite of passage for city kids and those in the GTA. Frequently seen as the beginning of the end of summer in Toronto, it’s an excellent way to spend the day with kids who are bursting with energy. Here’s everything you need to know about spending the day with kids at The Ex.
Getting there:
Parking on the Exhibition grounds becomes scarcer each year, making public transit your best option for getting to the fair. There’s a Go Transit stop (Exhibition Station) right in the midst, and there are a number of TTC routes that will get you to the Prince’s Gates. (193 express from Dundas West Station, 511 streetcar from Bathurst Station, 509 streetcar from Union Station, and the 29 bus from Dufferin station. If you do decide to take the car, expect to pay $25-$30 for parking at one of the on-site or off-site lots.
Tickets:
Admission for children under four is free, for those aged 4-13 it’s $15, and 14 and older is $18. You can also snag a family pass that covers two adults and two children, or one adult and 3 children for $56. The best bang for your buck, especially if your little ones love the midway, is to purchase a Ride All Day pass before August 18th for $40.
Getting around:
The Exhibition grounds are fully accessible, which is great for families whose little ones are still in the stroller. You can also rent a wagon to tow the littles around in for $10 with a $50 deposit, from select information booths on the grounds.
Baby care centres:
Those with kids under the age of 1 will appreciate the Ex’s three baby care centres where parents can change and feed their child in a quiet and cool private space designed with their needs in mind.
Kids’ World:
Geared especially towards children, this kid-friendly space sees a host of performances from the most beloved child TV stars including Barney, Bob the Builder, Thomas & Friends, and more. Kids can make music, pizza, and get up close with live reptiles.
The Farm:
City kids can have a chance to go country at the farm at the Exhibition. Let your child get up close with cows, sheep, pigs, and more. Send them on an AgVenture where kids aged 3-10 can experience a day in the life of a farmhand while completing hands-on tasks. Don’t forget to stop by the famous butter sculptures to see this year’s incredible creations.
Superdogs:
Big and little kids alike will get a kick out of watching these well-trained pups perform their tricks in this amazing show. With 3-4 shows each day, these four-legged friends are sure to put a smile on your child’s face with their new production, Rock and Roll over.
Rides:
We love that the CNE has a kid-friendly midway are with all the best rides for small people in one place. The Berry Go Round, Ferris wheel, bumper cars, and kid-friendly roller coaster are just some of the fun rides. With the Ride All Day pass, your child can spend the entire day enjoying their favourites.
Fire Hall:
Swing by the ground’s emergency service buildings (fire and ambulance) to let your little one get up close and personal with a real-life hero. They’ll get a kick out of checking out the inside of a fire truck, and the firefighters and paramedics are never without a handful of stickers or tattoos for junior members.
Food:
In an effort to cut down on waste, there are water bottle refill stations around the grounds. You can also purchase various foods and drinks throughout the grounds. Ribfest is tucked away towards the bandshell if your littles are hungrier for something more than deep-fried Mars bars. There’s also the Food Building, where you can enjoy tasty eats from around the world, as well as healthier options if that’s more up your alley.
No trip to The Ex would be complete without a taste of something outrageous and over-the-top. New, must-try foods for this year include: I Love Churros, Eva’s Original Chimney’s, The Food Dudes, and Pappas Greek “On Wheels”.
