The CNE returns to Toronto next month and here's what's coming for 2025

Toronto's biggest summer tradition is back — here's what's coming to the CNE 2025.

It's that time of year again — the Canadian National Exhibition (a.k.a. the CNE or simply The Ex) is set to make its epic return next month, bringing over a century of summer tradition back to Exhibition Place.

Running from August 15 to September 1, 2025, the CNE is one of Toronto's most iconic annual attractions. Whether you come for the wild food creations, the heart-racing midway rides, the free concerts, or the endless people-watching, there's something for everyone at The Ex.

Get ready for the wildest food mashups

If there's one thing we can always count on from the CNE, it's the food — and we're not just talking about corn dogs and funnel cakes.

The Ex is famous for going totally unhinged when it comes to culinary creativity. In previous years, we've seen pickle cotton candy, cheeseburger ice cream, and pink Malibu mac & cheese hit the food building, and I have no doubt that 2025 will be just as extra.

While the full list of over-the-top eats hasn't been dropped just yet, organizers have teased the return of Food Truck Frenzy and the Craft Beer Fest, which will bring a curated selection of vendors to Princes' Boulevard for the ultimate snack-and-sip experience.

This year's concert lineup brings the nostalgia and the vibes

The Bell CNE Bandshell is back with a stacked lineup of free concerts throughout the 18-day fair, and the first wave of headliners already has me planning my visit.

Toronto's own Shawn Desman will hit the stage on August 15 for a nostalgia-heavy performance sure to draw a crowd!

Also on the docket this year are performances by Marianas Trench, July Talk, Bishop Briggs, Loverboy, Moist, The Dirty Nil, and more — the best part? ALL of these performances are included with the price of admission.

What else to expect at The Ex

Aside from the food and music, you'll find the usual mix of CNE magic across the grounds, from the dizzying midway rides and games to the classic Sky Ride gondolas to the SuperDogs shows, esports tournaments, and agriculture exhibits.

Of course, things end with a literal bang at the Canadian International Air Show, taking over the skies on Labour Day weekend (Aug 30 to Sept 1). Expect aerial stunts from the Snowbirds, Red Arrows, and other international aces.

Red Arrows performing at the 2019 Canadian International Air Show in Toronto. Photo: Jack Landau.

How to get in

Advance tickets are already on sale, with single admission starting around $25 and ride passes available at a discount if you grab them early. VIP packages, family bundles, and PRESTO cardholder deals are also up for grabs. The gates open daily at 10 a.m., and it's best to take transit to Exhibition Station unless you're down for a parking headache.

Whether you're in it for the deep-fried chaos, the free shows, or just the vibes, the CNE continues to be Toronto's end-of-summer playground. Mark your calendars, save your appetite, and maybe pack some Tums — The Ex is back, baby.