What to know
- Soccer fans can get free CNE admission with their AFC Toronto game ticket on two dates during the CNE: Aug. 30 vs. Ottawa Rapid FC and Sept. 6 vs. Calgary Wild FC.
- Fans can enter the CNE before or after the match by showing their game ticket, though rides and concessions are not included.
- Aug. 30 is Youth Soccer Day, while Sept. 6 is Back to School Day, adding family-focused events to both match days.
- The same free CNE access is available to fans attending select RBC Amphitheatre concerts, including The Fray, Sean Paul, and Pitbull & Lil Jon.
Two home matches at Toronto’s BMO Field mean soccer fans could attend the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) for a full day with the same ticket.
During the CNE’s two-week run from Aug. 21 to Sept. 7, the Exhibition fairgrounds will transform into an agricultural fair, featuring more than 50 rides, multiple exhibits, and more than 100 unique and unusual food options.
The annual CNE brings around 1.5 million visitors to the grounds, making it one of Toronto’s most popular and anticipated events.
These dates will be accompanied by two AFC Toronto games at the on-site BMO Field.
The soccer club is expected to have two games during the CNE run, perfect for families looking to check out both events.
The first day this crossover happens is on Aug. 30 for Youth Soccer Day and the AFC Toronto vs. Ottawa Rapid FC match. This event day is the gift that keeps on giving, with a simultaneous family-focused celebration of grassroots soccer for young fans at BMO Field.
The second and final chance to enjoy both a soccer match and the CNE is on Sept. 6, when the AFC Toronto take on the Calgary Wild FC. This day also coincides with Back to School Day, dedicating the field to students ahead of their return to the school year two days later.
Those planning on attending these matches are able to enter the CNE grounds for free, before or after the game. All that is required is to show attendants your game ticket at the gate.
Those who are also watching any concerts at the RBC Amphitheatre, including fans of The Fray, Sean Paul, and Pitbull & Lil Jon, have the same complimentary courtesy.
The ticket does not include access to rides or any complimentary concessions.
Those looking to celebrate both the game and the city are still able to buy single match tickets on the AFC Toronto website.
