The Canadian National Exhibition, or CNE, has cancelled their 2020 fair.
The 18 day event was scheduled to take place at Exhibition Place in Toronto from August 21st to September 7th.
This marks the second time in the event's 142 year history that the CNE has closed entirely.
The last time the event did not run was WWII.
In a press release, President of the CNEA John Kiru says “Safety always comes first at the CNE, and the decision to cancel our event is the right decision during this critical time to protect the health of all Canadians.”
“Our hearts go out to the thousands of Canadians and families who have been affected by COVID-19; and we continue to draw hope and inspiration from the bravery of our healthcare and frontline workers, the compassion of everyday heroes, and community spirit that is stronger than ever,” says Kiru. “We believe in the resilience of Torontonians; and know – when the time is right – the CNE will be back.”
The Canadian International Air Show has jointly cancelled its 2020 show which takes place annually over Lake Ontario on Labour Day Weekend during the final three days of the CNE.