CNE unveils first wave of summer concert headliners. Here’s who’s coming to Toronto

CNE CEO Mark Holland says both Canadian and international award-winning musicians will play at the CNE this summer, with the full lineup coming soon.

The Canadian National Exhibition has announced its first group of headliners that will perform during the fair’s 18-day summer event.

In a news release issued Thursday, officials teased that music artists such as Lupe Fiasco (Aug. 21), Shaggy (Aug. 23), Tom Cochrane (Sept. 5), The Trews (Aug.27), Lights (Aug. 22) and Silverstein (Sept. 3) will be among the “first set of headliners” as more names are expected to be revealed in the coming months.

Organizers say artists will perform at five different stages including the NXNE Stage, and the CNE Bandshell stage (rebranded as the Bell Sound Stage).

“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. “This summer, we’re not just celebrating that legacy, we’re expanding it.”

According to officials, “all concerts are free with CNE admission,” and visitors can now purchase advance tickets with savings up to 35 per cent off until Aug. 20.

The CNE will also be offering a new front row VIP experience dubbed as an “add-on option to their admission ticket with dynamic pricing.” It will include reserved front of stage viewing, access to the VIP Lounge and a dedicated VIP bar and complimentary drink ticket.