CNE Shows 2026: 9 Must-See Shows & Evets in Toronto

The CNE shows 2026 lineup has plenty to see beyond the midway. From the new Big Dip high-dive show and Space EXperience to SuperDogs, live wrestling, concerts and the Canadian International Air Show, there are enough performances to fill a full day at Exhibition Place. The CNE runs from August 21 to September 7, 2026, with many shows included with regular admission.

Disclaimer: Tickets and pricing may vary, so please check the official CNE website for the latest information before visiting.

A dynamic, low-angle night photograph of a brightly illuminated, multi-colored swing ride spinning under a dark blue sky, with streaking riders and a large Ferris wheel in the blurred background. — *Photo via @andypandy1981 and @letsgototheex / Instagram*

1. The Big Dip High Dive Show

An aerial, top-down photograph capturing five synchronized high-divers clad in matching neon yellow and blue suits mid-air, diving simultaneously toward a circular pool below as an audience watches from picnic tables around the outdoor venue. — *Photo via* *The CNE*

If you want one show that feels completely different from the usual CNE lineup, make time for The Big Dip High Dive Show. The new attraction puts a 40,000-gallon pool beside the Princes’ Gates, with elite divers jumping from platforms reaching up to 80 feet.

The daytime performances focus on precision and height. At night, the show adds a dramatic flaming dive as part of its finale. It is also conveniently located near the Princes’ Gates, making it a good first stop if you enter from that side of the grounds.

Date: August 21 to September 7, 2026
Location: Princes’ Gates
Ticket fee: Included with CNE admission
Tip: Evening performances are worth considering if you want to see the fire finale.

2. CNE Space EXperience and Aerial Acrobatics

Photo via The CNE

The new CNE Space EXperience is one of the biggest additions to the 2026 fair. Inside the Enercare Centre, visitors can explore Canadian space technology, learn about the Artemis II mission and see a photo exhibition focused on humanity’s return to the Moon.

The highlight is a 20-foot illuminated Moon installation. Hourly aerial performances take place underneath it, turning the exhibit into more than just an educational stop.

This is also one of our picks for a smart mid-day break. If the sun is beating down on the midway, head indoors and combine this with the nearby Gaming Garage.

Date: August 21 to September 7, 2026
Location: Enercare Centre, Hall B, Northside
Ticket fee: Included with CNE admission
Tip: The exhibit is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., so it is easy to fit into your schedule.

3. Urban Edge: Ice Skating and Acrobatic Show

A dramatic action photograph of a male ice skater gliding across illuminated ice, wearing a grey long-sleeved shirt with a red cowl scarf, black trousers, black fingerless gloves, and black skates against a soft blue-lit background. — *Photo via* *The CNE*

Elvis Stojko is back at the CNE, this time headlining Urban Edge , a new ice skating and acrobatic production that combines elite skating with circus-style performances.

The show takes place inside Coca-Cola Coliseum, giving you a proper seated break from walking around Exhibition Place. With performances at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. daily, it is also relatively easy to build into a CNE itinerary.

Date: August 21 to September 7, 2026
Location: Coca-Cola Coliseum
Ticket fee: Included with CNE admission
Showtimes: 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. daily
Tip: Give yourself enough time to get to the Coliseum if you are coming from the midway or Enercare Centre.

4. SuperDogs: FairyTails

A whimsical, low-angle photograph of a spotted black-and-white dog wearing shimmering iridescent dragon wings weaving through agility weave poles in a grassy field, set against a fantasy background with a distant castle, a vibrant rainbow, and magical floating sparkles. — *Photo via* *The CNE*

The SuperDogs are back with Fairy Tails, a new story-driven production featuring canine athletes, trainers, jumps, tricks and plenty of audience-friendly moments.

It is an easy recommendation for families, but you do not need to be travelling with kids to enjoy it. The show is short enough to work between food stops, shopping and rides.

The CNE recommends arriving at least 30 minutes before the show because seating is first come, first served and entry is subject to venue capacity.

Date: August 21 to September 7, 2026
Location: Enercare Centre, Hall D
Ticket fee: Included with CNE admission
Tip: Arrive about 30 minutes early if you want a better chance at getting your preferred seats.

5. HARIBOW on the Spotlight Stage

If you are looking for something a little more unexpected, check out HARIBOW on the Spotlight Stage.

The Japanese Double Dutch team combines high-speed jump rope, dance, acrobatics and synchronized choreography. Their CNE run is limited to the first part of the fair, so this is one performance you cannot save for Labour Day weekend. HARIBOW performs from August 21 to 29.

Date: August 21 to 29, 2026
Location: Spotlight Stage
Ticket fee: Included with CNE admission
Tip: Plan this one early in your CNE visit because the run ends before the final weekend.

6. OMNIUM

A dramatic performance photograph of an acrobat performing an elegant handstand on a single balancing cane, bending back gracefully with legs pointed high under vivid blue spotlights with warm orange highlights on a dark stage. — *Photo via Broadway World*

From August 30 to September 7, the Spotlight Stage welcomes OMNIUM for its Canadian debut.

The inclusive circus production features performers with different abilities and is presented in English and American Sign Language. The show also features a Deaf ringmaster, making it a standout addition to this year’s CNE programming.

Performances run at 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. from August 30 to September 6, with two adjusted performances on Labour Day.

Date: August 30 to September 7, 2026
Location: Spotlight Stage
Ticket fee: Included with CNE admission
Tip: If you are visiting during Labour Day weekend, put this on your schedule before the fair closes.

7. Classic Championship Wrestling

A dynamic, low-angle photograph capturing a shirtless professional wrestler from behind as he stands atop the turnbuckle of a red-roped ring, overlooking a cheering crowd under a bright, clear blue sky at an outdoor event. — *Photo via* *The CNE*

For something louder and a little more chaotic, head to Classic Championship Wrestling, at North Bandshell Park.

The 2026 program features wrestling matches, character-driven rivalries and opportunities to meet selected stars. Featured wrestlers include Greg “The Hammer” Valentine, Rhyno, Gangrel, Luigi Primo, Joey Janela, Nova, Briyante RB and Ms. Spicy Sirena Linton, with appearances spread across different dates.

Date: August 21 to September 7, 2026
Location: North Bandshell Park
Ticket fee: Included with CNE admission
Showtimes: 1 p.m., 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Tip: Check the wrestler schedule before visiting if you have a particular guest you want to see.

8. Bell SOUNDSTAGE Concerts

A wide, high-angle night photograph depicting a massive crowd gathered in front of an illuminated outdoor band shell stage, where bright white lights and haze fill the performance area flanked by large video screens. — *Photo via* *The CNE*

The Bell SOUNDSTAGE at the Bandshell remains one of the easiest ways to catch live music at the CNE without paying for a separate concert ticket.

The 2026 lineup includes Lupe Fiasco, Lights, Shaggy, Glass Tiger, Bif Naked, Bran Van 3000, The Trews, JoJo, Charlotte Day Wilson, Finger Eleven, Silverstein, Raf-Saperra and Tom Cochrane, among others. The CNE also has a new NXNE Stage at the Collective Arts Tap Yard for emerging artists.

Regular CNE admission includes access to the Bell SOUNDSTAGE. A separate Front Row VIP add-on is available for select performances, although availability varies.

Date: August 21 to September 6, 2026
Location: Bandshell Park
Ticket fee: Included with CNE admission; VIP add-ons cost extra
Tip: Check the concert schedule before heading to the Ex. If you want to stand closer to the stage, arrive early.

9. The Canadian International Air Show

A crisp, directly overhead photograph of nine red and white aerobatic jet planes flying in a tight diamond formation across a clear blue sky, leaving trails of white smoke behind them. — *Photo via* *The CNE*

The Canadian International Air Show is the big Labour Day weekend finale and one of the most recognizable CNE traditions.

The 77th edition runs from September 5 to 7, with flying scheduled from noon to 3:40 p.m. The 2026 program includes the RCAF CF-18, USAF F-16 demonstration, Jack Aces Formation Aerobatic Team, The Pink Jet and the Canadian Forces Snowbirds.

You can see portions of the show from some areas of the CNE grounds and the Toronto waterfront. For the dedicated Exclusive Air Show Zone, however, a separate ticket is required.

Date: September 5 to 7, 2026
Location: Toronto waterfront and Lakeshore Blvd.; Exclusive Air Show Zone at 1095 Lake Shore Blvd. W.
Ticket fee: Free from public viewing areas; Exclusive Air Show Zone requires a separate ticket
Showtime: 12 p.m. to 3:40 p.m.
Tip: Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, water and ear protection. The official air show recommends comfortable shoes and notes that much of the event is cashless.

Planning Your CNE Show Day

The easiest mistake at the CNE is trying to see everything.

Instead, pick two or three fixed-time shows and leave the rest of your day flexible. The grounds cover a lot of space, and popular areas can get busy during peak afternoon and evening hours.

A good strategy is to group attractions by location. For example, you can combine the Space EXperience, SuperDogs and Gaming Garage during one indoor stretch, then head outside for food, rides or concerts.

It is also worth keeping one indoor option on your list. Toronto weather can change quickly in late August and early September, and the Enercare Centre gives you somewhere to cool down or escape a sudden shower.

For tickets, regular CNE admission includes access to the grounds, shows and exhibits for one day. The current listed general admission price is $26.55, with HST added at checkout and a $2.99 online processing fee.

There are also special offers on selected dates. For example, the CNE’s current $13 Nights promotion applies on August 31 and September 1 to 3, while Kid’s Toonie Monday is available at the gates on August 31 for children 13 and under accompanied by a paying adult.

Official CNE Tickets

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the CNE in Toronto in 2026?

The Canadian National Exhibition runs from August 21 to September 7, 2026, at Exhibition Place in Toronto. Regular grounds hours run until midnight, while Labour Day has shorter hours.

Are CNE shows included with admission?

Yes. Regular CNE admission includes access to the grounds, shows and exhibits for the day of your visit. Some enhanced experiences and VIP options cost extra.

How much is CNE admission in 2026?

The current listed general admission price is $26.55 for visitors aged 14 to 64. HST and the $2.99 online processing fee are added at checkout. Children aged four and under can enter free with a paying adult.

What is the best CNE show for kids?

SuperDogs: Fairy Tails is one of the easiest choices for families because it combines animals, tricks and an accessible story. Kids can also explore the Space EXperience and Gaming Garage.

Can I watch the Canadian International Air Show for free?

Yes. The Canadian International Air Show can be viewed from some public areas along the Toronto waterfront and from portions of the CNE grounds. The dedicated Exclusive Air Show Zone is separately ticketed.

Do CNE shows run if it rains?

Indoor shows and exhibits are generally the safer choice during poor weather. Outdoor performances may be delayed, modified or cancelled depending on conditions, so check the official CNE or event website on the day of your visit.

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Which CNE show are you most excited to see this year? Let us know in the comments, and follow @OverHereToronto for more Toronto events and things to do.