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The history of the Princes' Gates in Toronto

Kimia Afshar Mehrabi

created: Oct. 5, 2025, 4:01 a.m. | updated: Oct. 6, 2025, 7 p.m.

If you've ever attended the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE), you've likely walked under the Princes' Gates numerous times without knowing its history. However, after it was revealed that Edward, Prince of Wales (later known as the Duke of Windsor), and Prince George were visiting the CNE, the gates were renamed "Princes' Gates" (not Princess gates as often mispronounced), in honour of the two royal brothers. During their visit, Prince Edward was given gold scissors and cut the purple ribbon to officially open the Princes' Gates on Aug. 30, 1927. All of the figures adorning the Princes' Gates were created by sculptor Charles D. McKechnie. Although there's a decent chance you pass by the Princes' Gates regularly, gaining a deeper understanding of its history can help you appreciate both the monument and the evolution of the CNE.

3 days, 19 hours ago: blogTO