It’s that time of summer when, as kids, we used to cherish the final weeks of school summer break and with that came the excitement of going to The Fair at the Pacific National Exhibition. Those fond memories followed into adulthood and the sights and smells of the PNE bring back teenage fun.
For over a century The Fair at The PNE has been loaded with activities. While they have changed or disappeared, a great deal over the years, there always plenty to keep visitors of all ages entertained, most of them included with the $17 admission ($13 online). Add on Playland, you’ve got even more entertainment to satisfy your adrenaline and summer fun needs.
These are just a few of my favourite PNE memories and activities, many more have come and gone to be replaced by the ever changing yearly additions. What are you looking forward to this year?
4-H Festival/Farm Country : growing up as a 4-Her, we spent a week every year competing and living the PNE’s mission of bringing the Farm to the City. 4-H and the farm displays still play a central roll in The Fair.
Summer Nights Concerts : while the location has changed over the years, the PNE has always welcomed great Summer Concerts and this year is no exception. The Sheepdogs, Chris Isaak, Foreigner, Olivia Newton-John, Culture Club and more play the PNE Amphitheatre this year.
Fair Food: The old Food Building is long gone, but the unique Fair Food lives on in Food Trucks and Stalls scattered all around The Fair, including Jimmy’s Lunch, a stalwart since the 1920s. And of course, no trip to The PNE is complete without Those Little Donuts
The President’s Choice Superdogs: Even after 3 decades, the Superdogs’ show is still a fan favourite. The adorable, acrobatic, obstacle dodging canine troupe packs the Pacific Coliseum with dog lovers, three times per day.
Showmart Building: There’s something ridiculously entertaining about a building filled with stuff you don’t need. Somehow hearing about the virtues and benefits of a shammy or knife set from a PNE barker makes it something you can’t live without…until you get it home.
The Fair at The PNE opens Saturday August 20th, running until Monday September 5th (closed Monday Aug 22 & 29)
Buy advance admission tickets online to save