10 new things coming to the 2026 CNE in Toronto
The 2026 CNE is rapidly approaching, and the annual end-of-summer tradition is returning with brand new activations and shows this year.
Whether you're looking to discover new music, partake in immersive experiences, or munch on some delicious treats, there's no shortage of new activations to visit.
Here are some of the new things coming to the CNE in Toronto, which takes place between Aug. 21 and Sept. 7 this year.
Embark on an otherworldly adventure
At this brand new activation, you can uncover Canada’s role in the lunar flyby Artemis II mission. You'll also have the opportunity to step into the life of an astronaut, explore innovative space technologies, partake in interactive exhibits, and marvel over The Artemis II Journey photo exhibition.
Your journey will end at a 20-foot illuminated moon, where projections of the lunar phases will be accompanied by hourly aerial acrobatic performances.
Compete in an astronaut fitness challenge
Along with its galactic Space EXperience, the CNE Gaming garage will offer new space-themed games you can play for free. Think you've got what it takes to be an astronaut? Put yourself to the test in the Astronaut Fitness Challenge, or if that's not your speed, watch your drawings come to life on a 17-foot-tall screen as your avatar travels through aiLIENS: Lunar Station 6IX.
Watch elite performers take daring dives
Once a popular CNE pastime in the early 60s, high diving is making its comeback to the summer fair with the return of The Big Dip High Dive Show. Fearless performers will climb platform heights up to 80 feet before plunging into a massive, 40,000-gallon pool at the Princes’ Gates.
Jam out to free concerts
Check out the electrifying performances that will be taking place at the Bell SOUNDSTAGE at the Bandshell. The exciting line-up includes international artists like Shaggy, Lupe Fiasco, Raf-Saperra, and Alison Hinds, along with Canadian icons like Tom Cochrane, Finger Eleven, Bif Naked, and The Trews.
Try your hand at goat yoga
If you want to sneak in a workout before you munch down some food, you can sign up for goat yoga at The Farm at the Better Living Centre. The 30-minute session will be led by certified instructors from Yoga Kawa, as mini goats wander and climb their way into your yoga flow.
If that's not your thing, you can learn some line dancing, or watch 100-tones of sand turn into a sculpture, as artists commemorate the United Nations' Year of the Woman Farmer.
Roll up your sleeves and learn how to bake
If you want to skip the long lineups this year and make your own treats, you can join renowned pastry chef Anna Olson every Saturday to make an Ontario-fresh seasonal fruit jam at the CNE's Kitchen Studio.
If you're craving something more savoury, you can learn how to make fresh pasta from scratch with Le Dolci Culinary Classroom, and if you're in need of some caffeine, you can discover authentic Japanese matcha preparation with instructors from Isabella's Donuts.
Step into an enchanted forest
Kids' World at the CNE will be transformed into an Enhanced Forest immersive experience, where live characters will invite young visitors to take part in quests and challenges across the park. New attractions at Kids' World also include the K-POP Tribute Cirque Show, plus appearances from PAW Patrol, Trolls, and Gabby's Dollhouse characters.
Check out must-see dance performances
Head to the CNE's Spotlight Stage if you want to catch some unforgettable performances, celebrating the best of dance, music, and culture from around the world. The lineup includes HARIBOW, a high-energy Double Dutch team from Japan, who have appeared on major Got Talent stages.
Fuel up on espresso
This year at the Music Building, you can discover a new seated café and retail shop, appropriately named Drip, to fuel up on some caffeine. Get your energy boost while you browse some of the CNE-inspired merch available on site, including hoodies, t-shirts and reusable water bottles.
Discover new music
The NXNE stage at the CNE will be showcasing some of the hottest emerging acts in Canada this year. Reminiscent of a music festival, you can cool down with some beer at the Collective Tap Yard (just west of the Food Building) as you dance the night away.
Fareen Karim
