54,000 Applications for 5,000 Jobs?

With entry-level unemployment reaching unprecedented levels, thousands of Toronto youth are scrambling for summer jobs, making the CNE a popular choice—perhaps even a last resort—for those seeking valuable work experience.

This year, the job market is particularly competitive. The number of active job seekers is rising dramatically, as many high school graduates, incoming university students, and unemployed youth search for employment. The CNE has already received an astounding 54,000 job applications ahead of its annual hiring fair, which opens on July 30, 2025—the highest number in its history. Officials report that nearly 25% of Ontarians aged 14 to 19 are currently unemployed. This age group typically fills seasonal roles, making up 81% of the CNE’s workforce last year.

“With youth unemployment rates at their highest in decades, especially in Ontario, the CNE is expecting one of the largest turnouts for its 2025 hiring event,” the organizers stated.

More than 5,000 positions need to be filled before the fair begins. Available roles include midway operators, food service staff, retail associates, game attendants, cashiers, and guest services representatives. However, securing a position will not be easy; the competition is fierce, and organizers have indicated that the vetting process will be thorough.

Long lines of hopeful job seekers have already been observed around the Enercare Centre at Exhibition Place.

For those interested, the job fair starts at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, July 30, in Hall C of the Enercare Centre at 100 Princes’ Boulevard. The CNE itself will open on Friday, August 15, and will run through Labour Day, September 1, with more than 1.5 million visitors expected this year.

—