August 16 2014 – Welcome to the final act of summer 2014. When the grand old Canadian National Exhibition (aka CNE, The Ex) opens its doors the first bell has rung for summer to start packing its bags to head down south. We took the opportunity to head down there and check out the sights, sounds and smells of Canada’s biggest fair. This year’s opening day started off with pretty overcast weather but glorious sunshine broke through during the day and kept the temperatures comfortable. The crowds grew throughout the day and by early evening the fair was buzzing.
Anyone growing up in Toronto will have fond memories of the CNE – whether it be the freak shows of the 50’s, the free samples of the 70’s or the games and rides of the 90’s but quite simply an anchor of childhood days gone by for many.
The Ex has gone through many changes and its current incarnation continues the great shows, rides, attractions, shopping and a recent buzz on food. It is unfortunate that all of Toronto’s mainstream media outlets focus irrepsonsibly on the fried heart attacks being served at the fair, but such is life. However there are plenty healthy (or at least normal) food choices as the visit to the Food Building is an experience on its own. You will have to do a lap or two around the place to decide where your tastebuds take you and some of the vendors will have a steady lineup throughout the day.
There is usually excellent music of all forms at the fair and this year is no exception.We will be covering all the good rock music this year’s EX has to offer. Highlights of 2014 include April Wine, Tom Cochrane, and The Orchestra (featuring members of ELO). Yesterday Down With Webster was playing the Bandshell and Gyles Ft. Jamesking Band as well as Wednesday’s Engine at the Molson Canadian Midway Stage. Unfortunately CNE veterans The Phil and John Show are not included in this year’s lineup.
The celebrity stage featured Jeanne Beker talking about (what else) Fashion and the schedule will continue to feature celebrities of various caliber talking about their areas of expertise. The other show we would highly recommend is The Amazing Kreskin!
The Fifa World Cup is also here for the Ex! Not the one featuring Robben, Muller, Neymar and Messi, but the one for women under 20. That’s right Toronto is host of the Women’s Under 20 FIFA World Cup so get out there and support Team Canada right in BMO field inside the CNE.
Aside from the rides and games there are plenty of options to keep young guests entertained and two of the highlights for my 5 year old boy were the Hot Wheels Track Builder Challenge booth (where we spent an hour relaxing while he played) and the magic show in the kids area.
So much to see and so much to do, that’s all we have for now – we leave you with some images of opening day August 15 2014. Doggy Doggy!
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