Did You Know the First CNE Was Held in 1879? (Spoiler: It’s Still at the Same Spot!)

Can you believe the Canadian National Exhibition has been around since 1879? That’s over 140 years of deep-fried treats, midway rides, and questionable stuffed animal prizes—all in the same spot! The Ex has gone from a modest agricultural fair to a full-blown summer spectacle that even your great-great-grandparents would recognize. It’s a history that’s as rich as the butter on those infamous corn-on-the-cob stands, and it’s one that’s helped shape the Toronto we know today.

Telephone Demonstration (Year 1888)

Origins (1879-1900)

The Canadian National Exhibition, known initially as the Toronto Industrial Exhibition, started its journey in 1879. Back then, it wasn’t about the deep-fried delicacies or the wild rides we know today—it was all about showcasing the latest and greatest in agriculture and industry. Picture it: farmers comparing prize-winning pumpkins, blacksmiths hammering away, and everyone marvelling at the “cutting-edge” technology of the day.

The first exhibition was held on the grounds that still host The Ex today, making it one of Toronto’s longest-standing traditions. It quickly became the place for anyone interested in what was new and exciting, at least by 19th-century standards. Little did those early visitors know, they were setting the stage for what would become a staple of summer in the city for generations to come.

Coliseum With Midway Ride (1940)

Early 20th Century (1900-1940)

As the 20th century began, the CNE expanded beyond its agricultural beginnings. While the fair still featured plenty of livestock and produce, it also became a stage for showcasing Canadian industry and innovation. From shiny new automobiles to the latest household gadgets, the CNE was where you went to see what the future might look like.

Around this time, the fair began adding more of the entertainment and fun we now associate with it. Amusement rides, games, and classic fairground treats started to pop up, making the CNE a must-visit destination for families. But it wasn’t all fun and games—world events left their mark, too. During both World Wars, the exhibition grounds were repurposed as military training centers, with the usual festivities on hold while the country focused on the war effort.

Even in these challenging times, the CNE’s popularity grew, setting the stage for its post-war boom.

Televisions On Display (1950)

Post-War Growth and Popularity (1940-1980)

After World War II, the CNE roared back, bigger and better than ever. Once used for military purposes, the fairgrounds were transformed back into a vibrant hub of entertainment and innovation. The post-war years were a time of growth and prosperity, and the CNE reflected that energy.

The 1950s and 1960s saw the CNE expand in all directions. New buildings, like the Queen Elizabeth Building, sprang up, and the fair began offering even more attractions. The midway became a sea of bright lights, thrilling rides, and games that tested your skill (or just your luck). Food vendors multiplied, offering everything from classic corn dogs to more adventurous fare—long before deep-fried butter became a thing.

Concerts, parades, and special events became a regular part of the CNE experience, drawing crowds from all over. The annual Canadian International Air Show, which began in 1949, quickly became one of the fair’s biggest highlights, with jaw-dropping aerial displays still attracting huge crowds today.

During this time, the CNE became Toronto’s summer highlight, a tradition that families passed down through generations. The fair became more than just an event—it symbolized summer in the city.

Bandshell Extravaganza (1983)

Modern Era (1980-Present)

As the CNE moved into the modern era, it continued to evolve, reflecting its visitors' changing tastes and interests. While still holding on to its agricultural roots, the fair increasingly became known for its diverse entertainment offerings. Whether you were there for the thrill of the midway, the spectacle of the Canadian International Air Show, or just to sample the latest wild food creation (deep-fried Mars bars, anyone?), there was something for everyone.

The 1980s and 1990s saw the CNE embrace new forms of entertainment, including concerts from big-name bands, international exhibits, and even sports events. The fairgrounds became a melting pot of cultures, with food, music, and performances worldwide.

In recent years, the CNE has faced its share of challenges. The rise of other entertainment options, economic downturns, and the unprecedented impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the fair’s cancellation in 2020, have all tested the resilience of The Ex. Yet, the CNE has continued to adapt and thrive, returning each year with fresh attractions while keeping the spirit of tradition alive.

Today, the CNE remains a beloved summer ritual, drawing visitors from near and far to experience the joy, excitement, and sense of community that have defined the fair for over a century. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, The Ex offers a little slice of history with every ticket.