THUNDER BAY — The Canadian Lakehead Exhibition returns to the CLE grounds from Wednesday, Aug. 5 through Sunday, Aug. 9, offering five days of midway rides, games, food and nightly entertainment.
The CLE operates from noon until midnight at 425 Northern Ave., giving visitors time to enjoy family attractions during the afternoon before the midway lights and headline performances take over in the evening.
Remember the Rides Wristbands run for two time periods, first from opening to 6pm and then from 6PM to closing.
The Must-See Attractions at the 2026 CLE
With dozens of attractions competing for attention, the best approach is to build your visit around the experiences that matter most to your group. Families with younger children may want to arrive earlier, while thrill-seekers and concert fans should plan to remain after dark.
See the Midway Come Alive After Sunset
The midway is always impressive during the day, but the lights, movement and music create a different atmosphere once darkness arrives.
The CLE’s 2026 spectacular ride listing includes the Orbiter, Ring of Fire, Yo-Yo, Giant Expo Wheel, Starship 2000 and Typhoon. These are the attractions to seek out for the biggest movements, elevated views and classic nighttime fair experience.
The Giant Expo Wheel should be a priority for visitors looking for a slower ride and a view across the fairgrounds. Those looking for more intensity can head toward the Ring of Fire, Orbiter or Typhoon.
Try the Classic Rides That Keep Families Coming Back
Some of the most memorable fair experiences are found on rides that have entertained generations.
The major-ride lineup includes the Wind Glider, Trabant, Tilt-A-Whirl, G-Force and bumper cars. The bumper cars and Tilt-A-Whirl are particularly good choices for groups looking for familiar midway fun without heading directly to the fair’s most intense attractions.
For younger visitors, the family selection includes the Dragon Wagon, helicopters, Ladybug Ride, merry-go-round, Bumble Bees, Tea Time, Monkey Mayhem, Ghost Party, Scrambler and Cartoon Express. The Toontown Funhouse and bungee jumping are also listed among the family attractions.
Parents should check posted rules and restrictions before lining up, particularly when visiting with children of different ages and heights.
Challenge Someone at the Midway Games
The midway games remain an important part of the CLE experience, especially for families and groups of friends looking for an activity they can do together.
The 2026 game listing includes balloon darts, Bulldozer, Coke Rings, Whac-A-Mole, Fishy-Fishy, High Striker, Machine Gun Alley, Bowler Roller and the Water Gun Race.
The Water Gun Race offers a group competition, while the High Striker provides the traditional test of strength. Visitors hoping to win a prize should decide on a game budget before starting — small purchases can add up quickly during a full afternoon or evening at the fair.
Make Time for Hypnotist Corrie J
Hypnotist Corrie J is scheduled to perform every day of the fair from 7:30 to 9 p.m. on the fairgrounds. That consistent time slot makes the show a useful anchor for planning an evening visit.
Visitors can spend the afternoon on the midway, find something to eat and then move toward the entertainment area before the show begins. Arriving early may also help groups find a better viewing location.
Choose Your Night Based on the Music
Each night features a different musical performance beginning at 9:30 p.m.
Undercover Legends of Rock performs Wednesday, Aug. 5. Hotel California, The Original Eagles Tribute Band, takes the stage Thursday, Aug. 6. Country artist Alli Walker performs Friday, Aug. 7, followed by Glass Tiger on Saturday, Aug. 8. A Cher and Neil Diamond tribute performance closes the musical schedule Sunday, Aug. 9. Each show is scheduled to run until 11 p.m.
For many visitors, Saturday’s Glass Tiger performance will be one of the fair’s headline attractions. Friday’s Alli Walker concert offers the strongest option for country fans, while the tribute performances provide familiar songs on Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday.
Stay for Sunday Night Fireworks
The CLE fireworks show is scheduled for 11 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 9, immediately following the final musical performance. It will provide the closing spectacle for the five-day fair.
Families attending the finale should identify a meeting location before the show. The fairgrounds can become crowded as visitors gather for the fireworks and then move toward the exits at roughly the same time.
Do Not Treat the CLE as Only a Midway
The CLE’s roots extend back to 1890, when it began as the West Algoma Agricultural Society. Its original purpose was to bring rural and urban residents together while promoting agriculture, horticulture, livestock, arts, crafts, business and industry. The organization adopted the Canadian Lakehead Exhibition name in 1929.
That history remains important in Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario. The fair is not simply a collection of rides brought in for a week; it is part of a regional tradition that has connected families, producers, businesses and communities for more than 135 years.
Visitors should take time to explore beyond the midway and entertainment stage. Food, vendors and exhibits provide a break from the rides while supporting the broader community character of the event.
Plan Before Heading to the Grounds
The fair is open from noon to midnight each day. Families with young children may find the afternoon easier to navigate, while visitors seeking the full lights-and-music midway experience should stay into the evening.
The essential 2026 experience is straightforward: ride the midway after dark, attend at least one live show, play a traditional game, sample the fair food and, when possible, stay for the Sunday fireworks.
