The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) bandshell is celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2026 with an impressive start to its concert lineup, along with a new name. Reggae star Shaggy, Canadian singer-songwriter Tom Cochrane, and electro-pop artist Lights are among the first performers announced for the event, which runs from Aug. 21 to Sept. 7.
First Wave of Performers
Grammy-winning Chicago rapper Lupe Fiasco will kick off the entertainment on Aug. 21. Lights takes the stage on Aug. 22, followed by Shaggy on Aug. 23. The Trews perform on Aug. 27, Silverstein on Sept. 3, and Cochrane on Sept. 5. More artists will be announced in the coming months to round out the lineup across five music stages, including the newly added NXNE Stage, which will showcase emerging artists in partnership with the NXNE Music Festival & Conference.
Bandshell Renamed and Celebrated
The CNE announced Thursday that the bandshell will be renamed the Bell Soundstage at the Bandshell, in partnership with Billboard Canada and Rolling Stone Canada. "The Bandshell has been the heartbeat of Canadian music for 90 years. Nine decades of artists, genres, and generations, all on this one stage," said CNE CEO Mark Holland in a statement. "This summer, we are not just celebrating that legacy, we are expanding it. Partnering with Billboard Canada and Rolling Stone Canada to reimagine what this stage means is how we ensure music becomes an even bigger part of what the CNE means to Canadians. We cannot wait to welcome fans back to the grounds."
Ticket Information
Advance ticket discounts for the CNE are available now, with savings up to 35% if purchased before Aug. 20 at theex.com/tickets. All concerts are free with CNE admission. However, new this year, the CNE is offering a Front Row VIP Experience add-on to admission tickets, featuring dynamic pricing. This includes a reserved front-of-stage viewing area at the Bell Soundstage at the Bandshell, access to the VIP Lounge and amenities, a dedicated VIP bar, and a complimentary drink ticket.
