Torontonians are unhappy with the alleged price-gouging at the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE), with some attributing that to why the park attendance seems so low this year.
A TikTok user posted a video earlier this week, highlighting the surprisingly uncrowded fairground.
In the comment section, social media users complained that the price tag that comes with the over $30 CNE admission fee is far too expensive nowadays, and gave reason for that being why the park seemed so empty. Online ticket prices for adults come up to $33.38, while admission for children between the ages of five and 13 is $28.37, both prices include taxes. Children under five can enter for free.
“So many are living pay cheque to pay cheque,” one user wrote. “Many cannot afford to go.”
“I got three kids under 10 plus me and wife,” another user explained. “I would need $500 to go enjoy ourselves, so no thanks, too expensive.”
“This is the first year I probably won’t attend. I genuinely have other things to spend my money on these days,” a user said.
Some users who did visit The Ex this year also complained about the prices, some saying that they won’t be returning to the annual event ever again.
“I got in for $22 and my child was free. We are cheap and did frugal things this year. Very expensive otherwise!”
“We went today and it was expensive. Won’t be going back again… spent over $300 and one of my two kids was free.”
The CNE defended its prices, saying that numerous events are included with admission as well as the fee is often cheaper than some of Toronto’s other major tourist attractions.
“The CNE is one of the most value-packed ticketed events in the GTA with more than 100 free attractions, concerts, shows, exhibits and activities to enjoy that are included with admission,” CNE told Now Toronto in an email on Thursday.
“A general admission ticket at the CNE remains less than admission to some of the city’s attractions such as the Toronto Zoo, CN Tower, and the Aquarium.”
The CNE also says it offers discounted promotions throughout the 18-days in service and distributes more than 600,000 free passes to school boards and community groups annually.
However, social media users seem steadfast in their opinion, with many citing the price of food as another reason why they won’t be seeing the CNE this year.
“Why are we spending $22 on a sandwich,” a user questioned under the TikTok video.
“$15 for fries, poutine $23.47 and soft drink $5.57? Hell naw,” another user commented.
“$30 admission then another $30 each food you wanna try,” another user wrote.
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CNE says that it has no control over the price of food, as that is completely up to the discretion of the vendors. The annual fair also says that visitors aren’t limited to only eating within the park, as they have the option of bringing their own food in as well.
“Our concessions partners, retailers, and food vendors set their own prices. Many of whom are small businesses and entrepreneurs, and determine their prices each year to keep up with inflation, rising food costs, and labour, along with other variables,” CNE said.
“CNE visitors can choose to purchase the variety of food options available on-site; however, they are also permitted to bring their own food to enjoy on the grounds.”
