Animating the grounds between the iconic Princes’ Gate and Dufferin Gate within Toronto’s Exhibition Place, the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) is the ultimate staycation destination for the young, and young at heart. Marking 136 years as one of the largest fairs in North America, the CNE is celebrating all things “fun” with popular attractions such as the CNE Zip Line,

Sky Ride, SuperDogs, Food Truck Frenzy, and back by popular demand, The Flying Wallendas! PLUS, an all-new line up of musical acts and entertainment including The Amazing Kreskin, Gord Bamford, Christopher Cross, These Kids Wear Crowns and many more exciting announcements to come.

It wouldn’t be a complete CNE experience without splurging on incredible shopping bargains, carnival games, rides; and in celebration of the 60th anniversary of the iconic Toronto Star Food Building, there’s sure to be plenty of inspired and innovative food offerings.

HIGHLIGHTS & ANNIVERSARIES:

Pyrotechnics Spectacle: An extraordinary dance of colour and light takes over the summer skies as pyrotechnics return to the CNE each night during the fair (excluding Labour Day). The Princes’ Gates and rooftop of the Direct Energy Centre will serve as the dramatic stage for a not-to-be-missed kaleidoscope of colour.

PC Financial Zip Line: This new exhilarating experience was added to the “fun of the fair” in 2013 and is sure to satisfy thrill seekers once again. Nerves will be tested atop the 126-foot tower that offers a bird’s eye view of the CNE grounds, before being careened down more than 1,100 feet to a landing point.

The Flying Wallendas: Back by popular demand, one of the greatest acts in circus history returns to the CNE this summer to captivate audiences with dazzling daredevil stunts and amazing aerial feats! Renowned for pushing the boundaries of gravity, balance and imagination, every second will keep spectators enthralled.

PC Financial Sky Ride: The Sky Ride extends 40 feet above the ground at its highest point, transporting riders in a leisurely and breathtaking ride across the CNE grounds with panoramic views of The Midway, Lake Ontario, and Toronto skyline.

Food Truck Frenzy: The CNE hosts one of Canada’s largest food truck rallies on August 22 – August 24. Foodies can rejoice in unique offerings, internationally inspired fare and indulgent treats that have become a part of the CNE experience.

60th Anniversary of the Toronto Star Food Building: More than one million people visit the iconic Toronto Star Food Building each year to experience the vast array of foods that mix global flavours with traditional favourites, alongside innovative and healthy options to fuel up for a day at the CNE. There really is something to suit every taste and budget.

Acrobatic Show: Acrobatics return to the CNE this year with an exciting new show. The colourful extravaganza will feature cirque performers, trapeze and trampoline artists, jugglers, and more. This year’s acrobatic show will be themed around ‘water’.

DISCO DOGS: The President’s Choice SuperDogs Show: Due to its packed to capacity shows, the SuperDogs are relocating to the Ricoh Coliseum this year. From terriers, collies and bulldogs, these adorable and talented canines are sure to woof up the applause with an all-new super disco show!

Live Music: Catching a concert at the CNE Bandshell is the best way to close out a great day at the fair. Spanning the entire musical spectrum for all ages, headlining acts in 2014 include Gord Bamford, Christopher Cross, The Mighty Diamonds, These Kids Wear Crowns with Eleven Past One/PRTY H3RO – all concerts are FREE with admission! More exciting concerts to be announced soon.

Kids’ World: A wonderland of amusement rides, games, activities and entertainment designed especially for kids and families. A fun-filled day includes pizza-making and art studio at the KidStreet Interactive Zone, Reptilia show, circus school, appearances by popular characters and stage shows including Splash & Boots.

Shopping and Celebrity Stages: A “marathon of marketplaces,” the CNE is a treasure trove of artisan offerings, international bazaar, warehouse outlets and bargains on virtually everything from home-related products to lifestyle and leisure merchandise. Shop ‘till you drop or take a break from retail therapy to partake in live demonstrations from celebrity lifestyle and design experts such as Jeanne Beker and Candice Olson, as well as North America’s top chefs including Michael Smith and Christian Pritchard to name a few!

65th Annual Canadian International Air Show: The Canadian International Air Show (CIAS) soars over Lake Ontario Labour Day weekend for another awe-inspiring showcase of aerobatic stunts.

DATES: August 15 - September 1, 2014

LOCATION: Exhibition Place, Toronto, ON

via Princes‘ Gate (Lakeshore Blvd. & Strachan Ave.) or Dufferin Gate* (foot of Dufferin St.) or GO/TTC Exhibition Gate

*UPDATE: Dufferin Gate will be open during the 2014 CNE. Bridge construction is complete for the time being.

TICKETS: Pre-CNE Early Bird Advance Tickets are available at GO Transit and www.TheEx.com beginning July 25th. Purchase before August 14th and SAVE!

Before Aug. 14: General Adult Admission $12 ($6 savings)

Ride All Day Pass** $36 ($20 savings)

Aug. 15 – Sept. 1: General Admission $18

Adults 65 & Better $14

Children (13 and under) $14

Children 4 and under FREE

CNE Family Pass $50

(2 adults & 2 children or 1 adult & 3 children)

**Zip Line is not included in Ride All Day Pass. Zip Line is $20 per ride.

WEBSITE: For more information about the 2014 CNE, tickets, programming, directions and hours, go to www.TheEx.com.