The Canadian National Exhibition opened today for the 134th year.
“The Ex” was at one time like Christmas in August for the children of Southern Ontario. A day on the mid-way, dining on candy floss and ice cream waffles, and perhaps going home with a souvenir of your victory in one of the many games, was a day to remember.
For parents, there was the challenge of not losing a child in the crowds, but there was also the Better Living Building, that would feature the latest in televisions and vacuum cleaners. The Horse Pavilion and all the other animals and farm produce were a wonder to take in, and the bandstand provided great musical moments well into the evening. And the “Food Building” promised all sort of delights and samples.
Cronuts are all the rage with bakeries and patisseries challenged to meet the sudden demand. Part donut, part croissant, topped with a maple bacon-jam, the Cronut Burger is described by CBC news, as “one of many Frankenstein-like selections on the menu at this year’s Canadian National Exhibition”.
“Founded in 1879 out of a community need to encourage the development of agriculture, manufacturing, industry and commerce and the arts, the CNE has very long and very rich history.” That’s how it is described on the website.
A study in 2009 found that the CNE is still generating an estimated $58 million for the City of Toronto and $80 million for the Province of Ontario each year, in spite of all the competing attractions around the city. 275,000 out-of-town visitors take in The Ex.
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