81-year-old superfan gets lifetime free access to Canadian National Exhibition

For 81 years, Barbara Jean Batten has made the Canadian National Exhibition a non-negotiable part of her life. Now, the annual festival is honoring her unparalleled dedication by granting her free lifetime access.

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My mum always brought us in carriages, and I brought my children in carriages.

Batten's connection to the CNE began before her own birth. Her mother brought her to the exhibition in a carriage, and her father competed in music competitions there in the 1930s. She has attended every year since, with exceptions only for World War II and the COVID-19 pandemic. Her daughter, Lisa Carruthers, humorously notes that Batten always pressures the family to attend, despite their longer travel distance from Muskoka, but they always end up having fun.

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But we come and we have so much fun every time, and we have to remind ourselves of that because it’s just about being with family.

Batten's sister, Elaine Darwin, emphasized the significance of Batten's lifelong commitment, noting that many people don't live to 80, let alone maintain such a passion for an event. Darwin highlighted that the CNE represents more than just the experience; it's about the enduring family connections and shared memories built over decades.

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So, that just shows you what her passion is and her dedication.

Mark Holland, CNE CEO and president, stated that Batten's 81 years at the exhibition represent more than just attendance. He recognized the countless moments of family connection and the adversities the family has overcome together. Holland also indicated that the CNE plans to offer more 'golden tickets' in the future, recognizing other dedicated attendees.

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There’s something behind those 81 years that is more than just the experience of coming to the Ex. It’s all of those moments of connection with her family and all of the different adversity that they’ve faced and things that they’ve gone through.