If I based my review over the last 3 years, I'd probably drop it down to a 4/5 due to some of the changes that have been made. But I've been going to the CNE for the last 28 years and the tradition and nostalgia alone does it for me EVERY time.
Going to the Ex is and always will be a tradition for me (and my family). I have seen admission, food, game, ride prices go up year after year, but you can't expect it to stay the same forever.
It helps to find Early Bird specials or coupons to get advanced tickets at a discounted price. This year I managed to get $11 tickets online (saved $5 from the regular $16 admission at the gate), so I was happy with that.
I saw Corbin Tomaszeski at the Food Network stage and that was very entertaining as he is one of my favourite chefs. I tried out the deep fried twix which was delicious! Every year I go, I try to taste something different and am usually pleasantly surprised.
The CNE is wonderful and I plan on going again this weekend! It is and always will be something I look forward to every year.