Let’s go to The Ex! The long-awaited return of The CNE in Toronto is finally around the corner and this year’s attractions, vendors, and events are now being unveiled.

The iconic late-summer carnival will take place from August 19 to September 5, after two long summers on hiatus.

In addition to midway rides and games, attendees can always look forward to over-the-top carnival eats like rainbow grilled cheese and deep-fried everything.

There will be no shortage of interactive experiences, live entertainment, music, and unique competitions to see, including the annual Cat Show and Rising Star Talent Show.

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For the first time ever at The CNE, FIRST Tech Challenge teams can compete in a Freight Frenzy off-season event at the Gaming Garage.

Also new this year is a multimedia show called NEVAEH & The NorthStar, an “exciting production featuring groundbreaking theatrical technologies of projection mapping, augmented reality, laser, pyrotechnics,” according to the description.

Every night of the carnival, a colourful drone show will light up the skies above the Food Building. Taking place each night at 10:45 p.m., the show will be an “amazing display of light, colour and groundbreaking drone technology.”

As for new exhibits, the CNE will host the traveling National Geographic: The Greatest Wildlife Photographs show, as well as a whimsical display of giant “gnomes” called the Nook of Gnomes.

 Most importantly, though, is the food and The Ex has released its list of food truck vendors separated by category, including Celtic Food Trucks, Food Truck Frenzy, and Madi Gras Food Trucks. The featured food list has not been announced yet, so stay tuned for that!

You can also see a complete list of rides and funhouses, including Kiddie Midway rides.

More news about this year’s CNE will likely be announced in the days and weeks leading up to the carnival, so keep your eyes peeled and start counting down the days!