You can now buy discounted tickets to the CNE in Toronto

An age-old Toronto summer tradition, the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) is making its return to the city, and advance tickets are officially on sale, letting you get a head start on your outing and save some cash in the process.

The CNE will be taking over Exhibition Place from Aug. 21 to Sept. 7, but right now is the best time to grab your tickets, with discounts of up to 35 per cent off.

Advance-sale admission passes are currently available for $25.11, including grounds access (and trust me, this is all you need if you're a foodie in the market for some fun — and even funky? — foods) and admission to all shows and exhibits for one day.

If you're planning to hit the midway, you can also pick up an advance Ride All Day pass for $51.66, which includes admission and unlimited rides for a full day.

Looking to further upgrade your experience? The Front Row VIP Experience add-on for the Bandshell concerts is also available, with advance pricing starting at $40 per person. The add-on includes perks like a reserved front-of-stage viewing area, access to a private VIP lounge and bar, and a complimentary drink ticket, but note that admission to the grounds must be purchased separately.

This year's Bandshell concert lineup includes Lupe Fiasco, Lights, Shaggy, The Trews, Silverstein, and Tom Cochrane. However, according to the event's website, the VIP add-on for Lupe Fiasco, Lights, Shaggy, and Silverstein is already sold out. Talk about popularity and anticipation!

All advance tickets include a $2.99 processing fee, plus applicable taxes, and prices are expected to increase once the fair officially opens. These discounted rates are available until Aug. 20 at 11:59 p.m.

Annual CNE-goers will be pleased to know that classic attractions like the Ice Skating and Acrobatic Show, Classic Championship Wrestling, the Air Show, the Gaming Garage, and the CNE Casino are returning, a list of longtime favorites for Toronto visitors. New additions to the fair include an interactive agricultural exhibit featuring live farm animals.

More details on this year's attractions will be announced in the coming weeks. Can we see the return of the epic Dinner in the Sky? Only time will tell. 

For now, head over to the event's official website and secure your discounted tickets because it's almost time to go to The Ex!

The CNE will once again take place at Exhibition Place, located at 100 Princes' Blvd.