After two years away, the Ex is back
There’s lots to do in the city this weekend. Here’s a sampling of what’s on.
The Canadian National Exhibition After two years of pandemic cancellations, the CNE is back with exciting additions and returning classic attractions for a blend of the new and the nostalgic.
“Anybody who comes along can find something to have fun at and enjoy,” CNE chief executive officer Darrell Brown told the Star.
At the CNE Midway, revisit classic rides like the Hurricane, Zipper and Scrambler. Or, check out one of the new rides like the double-decker carousel. For the little ones, the “Mini Midway” offers fun-sized rides and interactive programs, including a pizza-making shop, kidfriendly live shows and arts and crafts.
Also, check out the food trucks and booths. Adventurous eaters can try some of the more creative treats this year, such as the ketchup and mustard soft serve ice cream at the So Cute Ice Cream booth.
There’s lots of entertainment on offer at the Ex, as well, with acts from across Canada and around the world. This Friday, laugh with comedian Howie Mandel, who will be hitting the Bandshell stage at 7:30 p.m.
And don’t miss the finale: every night, at 10:45 p.m., 100 drones will light up the sky in a spectacular display above the food building.
The CNE’s return comes amid a strike by safety inspectors represented by the Ontario Public Service Employees Union, who walked off the job on July 21 after contract negotiations with the Technical Standards and Safety Authority
broke down. Brown said all the necessary measures will be taken to ensure the fair is safe.
The Ex opens Friday and runs until Sept. 5. Tickets are available online and at the gates. Learn more at theex.com.
Here are five other fun things to do this weekend:
TD Markham Jazz Festival
Savour the summer with outdoor jazz, food and drink. After a twoyear pandemic hiatus, the TD Markham Jazz Festival is back for its 25th year with a packed lineup. Over 30 free concerts, spread out among three stages along Unionville’s Main Street, are scheduled for this weekend. At the Millennium Bandstand, enjoy performances by Emily Steinwall, winner of 2022 SOCAN Songwriting Prize, and Canadian blues singer Shakura S’Aida — both performing on Friday. At the McKay Beer Garden, take in the summer and enjoy live music, food and over 20 beers on tap. The Varley Art Gallery will host performances as well, including 2022 Juno Award winner Caity Gyorgy on Saturday night. Main Street in Unionville will be closed to traffic this weekend, so if you’re taking a car, park at the nearby Markham Pan Am Centre and hop on the free festival shuttle, which will take you directly from the Markham Pan Am Centre to the festival site on Main Street. Explore the full festival program at markhamjazzfestival.com.
Shop local at a farmers’ market
The summer growing season in Ontario is in full swing and Toronto is bustling with farmers’ markets offering lots of fresh produce. This weekend, head to a market and shop from local growers and artisans. For the best selection of produce, eggs, dairy and meats, be sure to arrive early and ask the farmers what the best picks are that day. And don’t forget to bring cash. On Saturdays, the iconic St. Lawrence Market hosts local producers in its outdoor space and the North Market from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. Through November, Evergreen Brick Works, in the Don River Valley, holds an outdoor market on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. with over 60 local farmers and independent businesses. The Stop’s Farmers’ Market, at Wychwood Barns Park, is open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Deeply Rooted Farmers’ Market, in East York, highlights Black and Indigenous farmers, produce and vendors and is open every Sunday through Sept. 25 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Toronto Chinatown Festival
This weekend, Chinatown will be busier than usual. The Toronto Chinatown Festival is returning for its 22nd year, celebrating community and culture. Visitors can enjoy performances including dragon and lion dancing, a Kung Fu showcase and live music. Get ready to eat — traditional Chinese street foods that will be featured throughout. And, find familyfriendly activities on Huron Street to entertain the kids.
The festival will run on Saturday from noon to 8 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on the west side of Spadina Avenue between St. Andrew Street and Sullivan Street.
Japan Festival Canada
Head to Mississauga this weekend to see and celebrate Japanese culture with the return of Japan Festival Canada, which had been held virtually for the past two years. Among the food vendors featured are Uncle Tetsu (try their fluffy Japanese matcha cheesecake) and popular noodle joint Klinton Ramen. Vibrant dance performances, music, a fashion show and shopping arcade are on offer, too.
The event will run 1:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday and 12:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
Concerts and Shows
Looking to see a show? On Friday, American rock band Greta Van Fleet is performing at Scotiabank Arena with New York postgrunge group The Pretty Reckless. Neo-soul singer-songwriter Leon Bridges is performing on Saturday, also at Scotiabank Arena. On Sunday, German rock band Scorpions is hitting the Budweiser Stage.