Best Festivals & Events in Windsor-Essex: A Local Guide

Looking for the best festivals and events in Windsor-Essex? Start with food celebrations such as Windsor Ribfest and Carrousel of the Nations, browse creative work at Art in the Park, or explore community events in LaSalle, Amherstburg and Kingsville. Whether you live here or are planning a visit, this guide from Royal LePage® Binder offers ideas for a weekend with friends, a family outing or a chance to discover somewhere new.

A few things to know before you go:

• Choose an event around what you enjoy, from food and music to art, cultural traditions and outdoor activities.
• Explore beyond Windsor to discover celebrations in surrounding communities.
• There are options beyond summer, including holiday light displays.
• Check the linked organizer pages for current dates, locations, admission details and programming.

Food and Cultural Festivals in Windsor-Essex

Windsor Ribfest

Windsor Ribfest, part of the Northern Heat Rib Series, brings barbecue and live music to Windsor’s riverfront. It is a good pick for anyone who likes to build an outing around food, with ribs taking centre stage and musical performances adding to the atmosphere.

Come hungry and leave time to explore the waterfront. The official Windsor Ribfest website has the latest event details, including the entertainment schedule and admission information.

Carrousel of the Nations

Carrousel of the Nations celebrates local cultural communities through food, music and entertainment at participating villages across Windsor-Essex. It is an opportunity to try unfamiliar dishes and learn more about the traditions neighbours bring to the region.

Plan your route around the villages that interest you, allowing time to enjoy the entertainment as well as the food. Check each village’s listing before heading out, since locations, opening hours and activities vary.

Kingsville Highland Games

The Kingsville Highland Games celebrate Scottish traditions with piping, drumming, Highland dancing and athletic competitions. Heavy events, including the caber toss, offer something different from a typical festival outing.

This is a good choice if you enjoy watching skilled performers and competitors while exploring cultural traditions. Check the organizer’s latest schedule, venue and ticket information when planning your visit.

LaSalle Strawberry Festival

The LaSalle Strawberry Festival brings together agricultural heritage and community celebration. Strawberries and ice cream are part of its appeal, alongside programming that includes carnival rides, live entertainment and a parade.

For families, it offers a way to combine food and activities in one outing. Review the programme together before visiting so you can plan around the attractions everyone most wants to experience.

Art, Street Celebrations and Outdoor Activities

Art in the Park in Windsor

Art in the Park brings artists and craftspeople to the grounds surrounding Willistead Manor in Walkerville. Browse exhibitors’ work, look for a gift or find something for your own home while enjoying an outdoor arts event.

Leave room in your plans to explore the neighbourhood before or after your visit. Our Windsor community guide offers more background on the city and its neighbourhoods.

Open Streets Windsor

Open Streets Windsor temporarily opens selected roadways to walking, cycling and community activities by closing them to vehicle traffic. It gives visitors a different way to experience Windsor’s streets and connect with participating local organizations.

Consider it for an active outing where you can explore at your own pace. Check the current route and activity map before choosing your starting point, particularly if you have a specific neighbourhood or activity in mind.

Amherstburg Uncommon Festival

The Amherstburg Uncommon Festival combines steampunk and wizardry themes with street performances, games and vendors. Visitors are encouraged to dress up, making it a fun option for anyone who enjoys costumes and imaginative entertainment.

You can join in the theme or simply take in the performances and explore downtown. If you are getting to know the area, our Amherstburg community guide is a useful companion to your visit.

Holiday Events in Windsor-Essex

Kingsville Fantasy of Lights

Festival outings do not have to end when the weather cools. Kingsville’s Fantasy of Lights features seasonal light displays, including at Lakeside Park, with related holiday activities listed by the town.

Consider pairing a visit with a meal or time exploring Kingsville. Check the programme carefully when planning around a particular activity, as special events and the light displays may operate on different schedules.

How to Plan Your Windsor-Essex Festival Outing

Start with the kind of day you want. Food festivals suit a leisurely afternoon of tasting and exploring, while street events offer a chance to keep moving. Cultural celebrations and arts festivals can introduce you to something you have never experienced before.

Before leaving, check the organizer’s page for:

• Dates and location: Confirm the event is taking place and that you have the current venue.
• Admission and booking: Look for tickets, reservations or separately priced activities.
• Getting there: Review parking, transit, road closures and accessibility information.
• Visitor policies: Check guidance on pets, bags and outside food where relevant.

For more ideas, the Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island events calendar is a useful place to explore what is happening during your visit. Allow some extra time between activities so your day feels like an outing rather than a race through a schedule.

Discover More of Windsor-Essex

Local festivals are a chance to try something new, support vendors and spend time in the communities that make Windsor-Essex feel like home. Start with an event that interests you, then use the visit to explore a little further.

For more local inspiration, follow Royal LePage® Binder on social media and share the Windsor-Essex festival you look forward to most.