The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) is still months away (August 15-September 1, 2025), but the organizers are super excited to spill the beans on some of the big-name acts coming to the 2025 Bell CNE Bandshell, and we’re here for it!
The Bell CNE Bandshell has been a staple of the CNE, drawing in massive crowds with its free concerts (included with CNE admission, which is under $30 for a general advance ticket – what a steal!). It’s been a launching pad for some huge names over the years, and this year is shaping up to be no exception. As Emily Kempe, CNE Entertainment Manager, put it, ““For the price of CNE admission which is under $30 for a general advance ticket, there is no better value to see a full concert set LIVE in-person by some of the most popular artists in the world; and no better way to enjoy the experience than under a summer sunset with the excitement of the CNE around you,”. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good summer sunset concert?
Advance ticket discounts to the 2025 CNE are available now. You can save up to 41% before August 15 by purchasing online at TheEx.com. Don’t sleep on it!
Let’s get to the lineup! Some of the first big names announced for the Bell CNE Bandshell are:
Saturday, August 16 – LOVERBOY is bringing their signature high-energy rock sound, complete with red leather pants (because, why not?). With over 10 million albums sold and eight JUNO Awards under their belt, they’re legends in Canadian rock. Did you know that they’re also inductees into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame (2009) and Canada’s Walk of Fame (2023)? Catch them belting out hits like “Working For The Weekend” and “Lovin’ Every Minute Of It”.
Saturday, August 23 – THREE DOG NIGHT is another legendary act joining the party! With 21 consecutive top 40 hits, they’re bringing their brand of rock ‘n’ roll nostalgia to the stage. Fun fact: they’ve performed over 3,000 shows since 1986, including two Super Bowls! Expect classics like “Mama Told Me (Not To Come)” and “Joy To The World”.
Other acts confirmed for the Bell CNE Bandshell include SHAWN DESMAN (Opening Day: Friday, August 15), JULY TALK (Friday, August 22), BISHOP BRIGGS (Tuesday, August 26), MARIANAS TRENCH (Friday, August 29), and DEAN BRODY (Saturday, August 30). And don’t worry, there are more artists and opening acts to be announced!
The CNE isn’t just limited to the Bell CNE Bandshell stage – there are five other music stages throughout the fair to keep you entertained during the 18-day extravaganza (August 15 – September 1, 2025)
