2023 CNE Carnival: Unlimited Food, Games, and Fun
The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) will return to the Toronto Convention Center from August 18 to September 4, 2023, during which a large number of market food vendors, games, performances, concerts, shopping, and dazzling amusement rides will be held to end this summer with a high-profile event.
If you have already planned to visit the exhibition, as someone who has been visiting CNE for many years, I have compiled some lessons learned to help newcomers avoid pitfalls this year. From when to purchase tickets to the best way to ensure efficient completion of all items on the list, there are six things to remember before heading to CNE 2023.
Purchase tickets online in advance
You can purchase tickets online before the opening day at a price of CAD 20. If you purchase tickets on-site or after the pre-sale ends, the ticket price is CAD 25.
If you can arrange your time flexibly, please make sure to use the exhibition's half price ticket in the evening, which can be obtained for only 11 Canadian dollars. Only available after 5pm on Monday and Thursday, as the exhibition is open until late at night, you still have ample time to visit all the attractions.
CNE also held an opening day discount on Friday, August 18th, with an entry fee of only 13 Canadian dollars on that day.
If you wish to go and return early on the same day, the exhibition offers EXcelunch special tickets, with a ticket price of CAD 19.99 from 11am to 1pm. The best thing is that if you leave before 1pm, the ticket fee will be refunded to you.
If you are a Presto card user, you can also enjoy further admission discounts.
Plan ahead
There are too many things to do, see, and eat in CNE, which will definitely make people feel at a loss. If you plan to only go for one day, make sure to plan ahead.
You can visit the CNE website to view the activities on the day of your visit. For example, if you are going on the opening weekend, you may want to free up some time to watch the food cart craze and craft beer festival held inside the historic Princes' Gates, or CNE's new acrobatic and ice skating performance 'Time Flies'.
Of course, you also need to set aside some time to take the bus, try different CNE foods, and explore many shopping places.
Check project schedule in advance
On the day of your visit, obtaining a map with the location and screening time will help you understand what needs to be done first. If you don't check the screening time, you will miss out on some programs that you only have one chance to watch.
The entire park will host performances and events. On the international stage of the International Pavilion, there are performers from all over the world, and at CNE Bandshell, one can watch one or two concerts. Canadian chefs will showcase recipes and cooking techniques on CNE's kitchen stage. On the show 'Super Dog', you can see cute little dogs performing stunts.
Impulsive consumption
CNE is known for having some "limited edition" foods, but are they worth the money? This will depend on what the food is (and of course the people who eat it), but generally speaking, my best advice is not to make impulsive purchases.
For example, last year, one of the most unusual products was the tomato sauce and mustard ice cream cone, which received strong promotion before opening. Each cone costs 12-24 Canadian dollars. Although some of the quirky foods offered at the annual exhibition are also very interesting. But they really aren't worth that price.
On the contrary, I suggest you try some truly classic dishes at CNE, whether it's Tiny Tom Donuts, Mac&Cheesery's cheese, or OG's hot ice cream waffle sandwich at the exhibition. These are the tried and tested delicacies.
Don't linger
As someone who has been to CNE for many years, there are still many places at the exhibition that I haven't had time to play. Due to the limited duration of the exhibition. However, in order to experience different projects and attractions as much as possible in one day, do not spend too much time in a certain area.
For example, you would definitely want to take some time to stroll around Midway Island, exploring games, food carts, and amusement rides. But the highlights are far more than that.
Be sure to visit the Art, Crafts, and Hobbies Gallery located in Queen Elizabeth House to find unique gifts, artworks, clothing, and cuisine.
At the Enercare Center next to Princes' Gates, you will find an international pavilion showcasing unique products from around the world, as well as a shopper's market, outlet, and home and garden galleries.
If you need delicious food, be sure to go to the Food Building, which is closer to Kid's World. There are over 60 dining options here, including pearl milk tea BeaverTails、 Pizza, Dim sum, bacon, Vietnamese rice noodles, fried corn cakes, doughnuts, etc.
You can't complete everything in one day, but that's okay! I believe you can have a great time playing in different areas and attractions.