The Cheapest Ways to Get Into the CNE in Toronto This Summer
【1-Day Tour Routes】Toronto Scenic Night Tour (Including CN Tower Ticket)
The Cheapest Ways to Get Into the CNE in Toronto This Summer
The Canadian National Exhibition is almost here, and if you’re like us, you’re already mapping out how to spend the final stretch of summer. Between the irresistible food, the midway rides and that unmistakable CNE buzz, there’s plenty to pack into the fair’s two iconic weeks — but let’s be honest, it can take a toll on your budget. The good news? There are plenty of ways to cut costs, starting with admission.
Tickets are on sale now! Buying ahead is a smart way to lock in your plans, but Advance tickets aren’t the only route to a cheaper CNE entry.

How to get cheap CNE tickets in Toronto
How much is regular CNE admission?
Before diving into the discounts, let’s start with the baseline price.
While it’s not yet posted on the official site, a CNE rep confirmed to Curiocity that General Adult Admission (ages 14–64) will cost $30, taxes and fees included, whether you buy online or at the gate during the fair.
Online purchases may carry an added processing fee.
Are CNE tickets cheaper before opening day?
Want to skip the line and snag a discount? Buy before the Aug. 20 cutoff.
Advance tickets have been on sale for months and currently go for $25.11.
Keep in mind every advance ticket adds a $2.99 processing fee plus applicable taxes, and prices climb after Aug. 20.
Any PRESTO discounts?
PRESTO cardholders are in for some solid savings.
Per the CNE website, PRESTO Perks lets cardholders save up to 39% on Ride All Day tickets and up to 22% on regular admission through Aug. 20.
“Starting Aug. 21, PRESTO cardholders can save up to 31% on Ride All Day tickets and up to 12% on regularly priced admission,” the website notes.
Can kids get into the CNE for free?
Here’s a treat: through Aug. 20, 2026, school kids ages 5–13 can grab a free Kid’s Pass online. It covers grounds admission plus all shows and exhibits for any single day of the CNE.
The deal wraps up Aug. 20 at 11:59 p.m.
Are there CNE discounts for visitors with disabilities?
As with other Toronto attractions, the CNE has historically offered guests with disabilities 50% off regular admission by self-declaring to gate staff.
The discount only applies to in-person purchases at the entry gates.
“If a guest with a disability requires assistance during their CNE visit, they receive complimentary admission for their support person upon presentation of an Access 2 Card,” the official site states.
“This special CNE discount is not available online.”
What is the Ride All Day Pass? Is it worth it?
If you’re a CNE regular, you’ve likely bought a Ride All Day pass before. It grants unlimited rides on the midway.
You have two options: buy online with admission included for $85 plus fees, or buy in person for $55 plus fees — but without the admission ticket.
What about CNE Concert tickets? Do they include admission?
Planning to catch a show at the Bell SOUNDSTAGE at the Bandshell? Your CNE admission doubles as your concert ticket.
With Advance Sale tickets bought online, you can see favourites like Jojo, Lupe Fiasco and even Shaggy for under $30.
There you have it — save on the entry and put that cash toward everything else the CNE has to offer.
CNE 2026
When: Aug. 21 to Sept. 27, 2026 Where: Toronto’s Exhibition Place north of Lake Shore Boulevard West between Strachan & Dufferin Streets

