"LET'S GO TO THE EX...AGAIN!"

An endless supply of thrill rides, laughter, and candied apples have a way of instantly turning any grown up into a big kid for a day. For me it was carnival games that got me every time. I'd look up at all those stuffed animals hanging on display, and imagine that each of them had a dream of going home with a new owner at the end of the day (namely myself). Celebrating its 131st Anniversary this year, the fair gives children of all ages wonderful memories they can cherish a lifetime.Yes folks, the end of summer is fast approaching and what better way to come to a close than the 'CNE (Canadian National Exhibition)'.

Once you enter the Princess Gates you've hit a magical world pleasing to all the senses. The sights, sounds and definitely the aromas, all of which are reminiscent of a county fair but on a much larger and much more lavish level will have you hooked instantly. And believe me, I have this on good authority.

When I close my eyes I can smell freshly spun cotton candy, hot out of the fryer corn dogs, and the famous Tiny Tom donuts (my personal guilty pleasure!) that have my taste buds craving these tasty treats time and time again. And that's just for starters, the Food Pavilion always brings out a plethora of delicious international cuisine offering a little taste of heaven (on one plate or two or depending how much you can carry!) of our city's never ending cultural mosaic of traditional dishes.

But food and games aren't the only things that draw me back every summer. Rides are a huge attraction and rightfully so since I've always thought the midway has always had an arie of intrigue and fascination connected to it with the bright lights flickering at dusk as they appear to be dancing the two-step. There's a chill in the air as the sky turns into a deep shade of blue and night descends on the city. My surroundings become increasingly alive with activity even more so than a few hours ago.

Amusement ride enthusiasts scream in delight as they turn, twist, flip and roll upside down on the roller coaster, scared silly in the haunted house or race through the Polar Express at lightening speed. Music blares through the speakers so loud I feel the beat pounding through my chest non-stop. Then the noise of bells indicating the ride is over sounds and while people climb out of their seats, each face tells a story of what they've just experienced. It all adds to the excitement that the Ex is commonly known for and this year is no exception.

The classic oldies are back (like the Bandshell, Garden Show, Horse show, exhibits, Superdogs, casino, the Canadian International Air Show and more) mixed with new and exciting attractions (CNE Cup International Soccer Match, Movie Magic: Aerial Acrobatics & Ice Skating Show, Nightime Light Show, Cruise Nationals Classic Car Show and more) designed to entertain the whole family. Even former President Bill Clinton is set to speak at BMO Field on August 29th. You see there's something for everyone!

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. (except Labour Day) the Ex runs from August 21-September 7, so you have plenty of time to check it out. Then again with all these great things to experience why go just once? Your adventure awaits you! Let's go to the Ex!

http://www.theex.com/