Family Traditions Continue at The CNE 2018

On August 17th, 2018,  The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE ) returns for another year. We are excited to continue our family traditions by visiting. So many memories are made and it is part of the summer vacation that our daughter enjoys the best.

There are certain things that just have to be done together that create family traditions. Last July Canada celebrated its 150th Birthday. The Canadian National Exhibition continued the celebrations. Various exhibits and signs highlighted Canadian history and all that is loved and cherished in our country. Visiting the CNE is one of our traditions.

Family Traditions

Since our daughter turned 2, we have been heading down each August to attend the Canadian National Exhibition. The tradition began for me for as long as I can remember, going with my parents and later on with friends and now with my family.

Last year I visited a couple of times. Once with a friend to enjoy the shows and the entertainment and then with my family for all the kid-friendly activities. We brought along a friend of my daughter’s so she would have a ride mate. Her dad and I did not go on the rides due to health issues and my experience on one of the rides.

The Meeting Place

The Princess Margaret Fountain is located within the grounds of the CNE. The fountain has always been known as the meeting place. If you were heading to The Ex, it was the place to gather and meet up with friends. Before cell phones, it was the place to meet when you got separated from family or friends.

The Bandshell

The Bandshell was built in 1936 and has been the location of opening ceremonies and concert venues during the CNE. Sometime back in the 80’s I stood on the stage with other attendees and entered into a spelling bee, I didn’t win but did pretty good. Over the past few years, it has also been the location of some of the best BBQ’d food and some pretty amazing live music.

Canadian International Air Show

The Air Show starts on the Saturday of the Labour Day long weekend and ends on Labour Day (Monday). A fan favourite is the Snowbirds, who are there every year showing off the dynamics of a fabulous show in the sky. You can see them from many places

Do you visit the CNE?

We can’t wait and our watching the CNE website for updates on shows so we can plan our visits.