The CNE (the Ex) returns to Exhibition Place from August 21 to September 7, 2026, bringing 18 days of midway rides, live concerts, creative fair food, family attractions, and end-of-summer entertainment to Toronto.
If you are driving to the CNE, deciding where to park before you arrive can make your visit much easier. Parking directly at Exhibition Place is available, but spaces fill quickly during major events.
One option is to park near the CNE grounds with Indigo Neo and walk, or you can also park near Union Station and complete the trip by GO Transit or the TTC, avoiding the need to search for a space around Exhibition Place.
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Where Can I Park Near Exhibition Place for the CNE?
The best parking option for the Ex depends on how close you want to park and which direction you are travelling from.
Park and Walk
Parking a short distance from The Ex and walking makes your visit easier and less stressful. Farther lots are cheaper, less crowded, and easier to access, while the walk lets you stretch, enjoy city views, and avoid post‑event traffic.
99 Atlantic Avenue
16-minute walk to Fairgrounds
This 24/7 surface lot offers 35 parking spaces and is conveniently located near the Exhibition GO Station and fairgrounds. Payment available on-site only for this location.
Park and Ride
Parking near Union Station and taking the train to The Ex is a convenient and hassle‑free option. You avoid the traffic and higher costs of on‑site lots, enjoy easy access to GO Transit, and get dropped off right at Exhibition Station. It’s a quick, cost‑effective, and stress‑free way to start and end your day at the fair.
CIBC Square: 81 Bay Street
3-minute walk to Union Station
This 24/7 underground garage offers 366 parking spaces. EV charging available on-site.
Brookfield Place:181 Bay Street
4-minute walk to Union Station
This 24/7 underground garage is located in the heart of the Financial District and offers 1450 parking spaces. EV charging available on-site.
First Canadian Place:109 Adelaide Street West
10-minute walk to Union Station
This 24/7 underground garage offers 1036 spots. EV charging available on-site.
Bay Adelaide Centre: 333 Bay Street
10-minute walk to Union Station
This 24/7 underground garage offers 909 spots. EV charging available on-site.
320 Front Street West
12-minute walk to Union Station
This 24/7 underground parking garage features 590 spaces and is located just west of The Ex grounds. EV charging available on-site.
Who is Performing at the CNE?
Bell SOUNDSTAGE at the Bandshell
Free with admission
Some of the top headliners include: Lupe Fiasco, Shaggy, JoJo, Virginia to Vegas, Glass Tiger, The Trews and more.
For a full list of performances, visit the CNE Lineup site.
Top performers include WildShotHoney, Maddisun, Mike Chianelli, Greg Wyard, Stomp Down Rider, Red Line Radio, Cory Hotline, Shooter and many more.
Music performances are also happening at the Midway Stage and Wine Garden; visit the CNE site for the full lineup.
What to Eat
When it comes to The Ex, the food is just as iconic as the rides and live shows.
Some of the tasty treats and confections to look forward to are: Deep-fried Pizza on a stick, Lobster Ice cream, Dirty Sodas, Deep-fried Watermelon, Cheeseburger Spring Rolls, Crème Brûlée Cone, Deep-fried Butter, and much more.
Visit the CNE site for a list of the featured foods to expect this year.
Must-Do CNE Events and Attractions
Here are the must-do events and attractions at this year’s The Ex.
Urban Edge – Ice Skating Meets Aerial Acrobatics
Daily at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.
The legendary Elvis Stojko returns to The Ex stage in Urban Edge, a brand-new ice show that blends myth and acrobatics. A dazzling fusion of figure skating and aerial performance that brings high-flying drama right to the Coca‑Cola Coliseum.
Welcome to the CNE Farm
Daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Craving a little countryside in the city? Head to the CNE Farm in the Better Living Centre, where you can meet over 100 adorable animals, from goats and sheep to cows and a brand‑new Highland calf. This year, it’s all about the babies!
Gaming Garage
Daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Head to Hall B at the Enercare Centre for non-stop interactive fun! Join the fun with high-energy stage shows, Japanese rhythm arcade games, and classic board and tabletop favourites. It’s the ultimate destination for gaming, tech, and hands-on excitement!
Air Show
September 5-7 from 12 p.m. to 3:40 p.m.
The Canadian International Air Show is back with heart-pounding stunts and sky-high excitement over Lake Shore Boulevard. Featuring the Canadian Forces Snowbirds and CF-18 Hornet, it’s a thrilling Labour Day tradition you won’t want to miss.
Conclusion
The Ex is a summer tradition and a vibrant celebration of culture, music, food, and fun in Toronto.
From concerts and midway rides to iconic eats and live entertainment, it’s the perfect place to make lasting memories. Whether you’re a local or coming in from out of town, planning ahead is key.
Search, book, and park with Indigo Neo so you can spend less time looking for a parking spot and more time enjoying the CNE.
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