Let’s Go To The EX!
Mid-August is upon us. Two weeks of summer warmth remains–and more warm days ahead if Indian Summer occurs. The Canadian National Exhibition opened its doors on Friday, August 15, 2014 and closes on Labour Day (Monday, September 1, 2014). Admission cost varies with age and a group discount fee is available. The exhibits, attractions, merchandise, and rides continue to draw huge crowds everyday to the CNE.
The Canadian National Exhibition takes place at (you guessed it) Exhibition Place located on 200 Princes' Boulevard which is just north of Lakeshore Boulevard between Strachan Avenue and Dufferin Avenue.
This historical extravaganza was originally named, The Canadian Industrial Exhibition, opened in 1879, and promoted the buying and selling of goods and services. Shown below is a lithograph representation on wove paper of the representatives of this committee.
Photo in public domain courtesy of the Toronto Public Library.
The original copy is available to view in the Baldwin Room at the Toronto Reference Library.
Also, more glorious historical images are available from the Toronto Public Library Pinterest website:
(Archived Flyer Courtesy of The Toronto Public Library)
In 1912, the name changed to The Canadian National Exhibition. Acronyms in recent decades became popularized in social media. People today refer to this two-week festival as, "the CNE" or, "The EX."
There are many events occurring every year at the CNE. One of the most popular attractions are the unusual food concoctions available. The new foods on the menu (as listed on Toronto.com and on theex.com) include some renditions of the following:
For those who enjoy titles on food and culture, here are some tasty topics to tantalize your taste buds:
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
The Canadian National Exhibition is a celebrated tradition for over a century. Many people have memorable experiences of this annual event.
Blogger and podcaster, Mike Boon (also known as Toronto Mike), offers up his own experiences having worked at the CNE from 1989 to 1991. His collection, I Worked at the CNE. I Have Stories to Share, are filled with nostalgia and humour.
Celebrations occur across the world and have their own origins, traditions, and histories and below are some festive titles to enjoy:
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
If you are heading down to the CNE, take in the various attractions, food, and exhibits. Otherwise, enjoy the summer season whereever it takes you.
2 thoughts on “Let’s Go To The EX!”
Thank you so much for such a fascinating blog about the CNE, Ann. I shall have to read Mike Boon’s reminiscences! Food fads may come and go, but hopefully the delicious Tiny Tom Donuts will always be at The Ex!
You are welcome, Muriel! I enjoyed his stories–especially when other employees from nearby stands stood behind him when a jealous burly man tried to assault him.
The food fads are fun to look at but I do not believe I have the courage to try any of them. The Tiny Tom Donuts are definitely a classic–like the sadly missed elegant Bulova Tower.