London 
Experience all that southern Canada has to offer by spending time in Essex County — Canada’s southernmost region — and Windsor — the southernmost city in Canada. All surrounded by lakes and rivers, this region is special for its beautiful natural parks, farmland, and range of festivals to enjoy.
Credit: Destination Ontario
Whether you’re looking to spend your summer exploring the natural world or delighting in the indoor activities that the region has to offer, this list of things to do in Windsor and Essex County Ontario this summer has got you covered.
Events and Festivals
The Fun Returns
Windsor Riverfront Carnival is back again this summer. Details
June 16 to July 2, 2023
Kingsville Highland Games
a celebration of Scottish and Celtic culture featuring a range of activities including competitions, dancing, demonstrations, live music, food vendors, and family-friendly attractions.o. Details
June 24, 2023
Sway to Music
Tecumseh Summer Concert Series starts from June 11th. Taking place every Sunday, this is a great time to enjoy free local music. The concert takes place from 1 pm to 3 pm at the WFCU Square at Lakewood Park. Details
June 11 – August 20, 2023 | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Amherstburg Open Air Weekends
Take part in free yoga class, enjoy live music and more during Amherstburg Open Air Weekends. Every Friday starting at 3 pm till Sunday 8 pm the streets of Downtown Amherstburg are open for visitors to enjoy an open air safe atmosphere. Details
Fridays – Sundays, Juen 2 to September 3, 2023 | 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Open Streets Kingsville
Enjoy all that Kingsville has to offer in the fresh, open spaces of this vibrant community. Come out to drink and dine on the extended patios and support local by buying from the small businesses. Details
Saturdays, July 8 to August 26, 2023 | 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Sprucewood Shores Summer Music Series
Enjoy the sweet sounds of local Windsor Essex Talent while you enjoy a glass of wine in a beautiful park like setting at Sprucewood Shores Winery. Details
Sundays, July 2 to September 3, 2023 | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Fun All Around
It’s going to be 4 days of food, music and fun from July 6 to 9th at the Essex Fairgrounds during the Essex Fun Fest. Featuring beer tent, entertainment, fireworks, kids zone, main stage entertainment, midway, amusement rides, parade. Details
July 6 – 9, 2023
Essex Fun Fest
Outdoor Movie Nights
Enjoy free movie nights at the St. Mary’s Park and Town Centre Park. Details
July 14 & August 4, 2023 | 8:30 PM
Sunsplash!
Four days of action packed activities for all ages await at the Sunsplash Festival. Carnivals, car show, performances, kids activities and more. Details
July 13-16, 2023
Walkerville Art Walk
Dinner on a Pier is all about promoting Windsor’s local culinary resources and showcases the ethnic diversity of the region. Details
July 21 – 22, 2023
It’s Dinner Time
Dinner on a Pier is all about promoting Windsor’s local culinary resources and showcases the ethnic diversity of the region. Details
2023 dates TBA
July 21, 2022
Enjoy a Sunrise Sound Bath
Start your day with a multi-dimensional listening experience that combines nature sounds with the tones and vibrations of authentic live crystal singing bowls and other instruments. After your 30 minute south bath, head over to the docks and choose a paddle board or kayak and set off. This is a “loosely guided class”. Details
Select days in summer.
Ribfest
Juicy ribs, entertainment, craft beer, vendors and Kids Zone! Need we say more? Details
Grand Bend Ribfest on July 14 – 16, 2023
Leamington Ribfest on July 21 – 23, 2023
Crazy about Cars
Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy Show happens annually on Sunday at the end of July. On that day, hundreds of classic cars of all shapes, sizes descend upon the streets of downtown Amherstburg. Details
July 30, 2023
Stone & Sky Music & Art Series
Stone & Sky is an eclectic and growing series of curated artistic events encompassing a Greek Revival Theatre Festival, multi/inter-art concerts, and a grand finalé performance featuring music, dance, puppets and kites. Details
Various dates, June 25 – September 10, 2023
Wear your Rainbow colours
Pride Fest, held every August, is a remarkable annual celebration showcasing local theatre, music, art, and entertainment. The festival serves as a platform to raise awareness about the challenges, discrimination, and issues faced by the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in Windsor Essex, while also providing a space for joy and celebration. Details
August 2-10, 2023
Let’s go to the Fair
The origin of the fair goes back to late 185os. Since then, it has been entertaining visitors with family-fun activities while promoting agriculture through competition and exhibition. This year is no exception. Details
August 11 – 13, 2023
To the Market
The Mill St. Market is specially curated to serve delectable street food and drinks while you shop for handcrafted arts and and crafts lining the modern, reinvented, Mill Street in Leamington. With live music, you’ve never experienced a night market like this! Details
Friday, June 9, August 18, September 15, 2023 | 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Appreciate the local art scene at Art by the River
Art by the River has been an Essex County tradition since 1967, giving it a history of art appreciation that has seeped into the region. This event includes work by over 150 artists and artisans. Let the atmosphere — which features the beautiful Detroit River and music —carry you from the vendors as you find something that speaks to you. Details
August 26 & 27, 2023
Dropped on Drouillard
Packed with events and attractions such as mural painting, live music, a classic car show and plenty of local vendors, Dropped on Drouillard is Windsor’s only all-day urban street and culture festival! Details
Saturday, August 19, 2023 | 11:00 PM – 10:00 PM
World’s Finest Show
Enjoy exciting games, delicious food, thrill rides and kids rides. Details
June 16 – July 2, 2023
A Weekend of Racing
Tour di Via Italia is the oldest historical, international street race in Ontario. Watch racers from all over North America compete for the largest prize purse in Ontario. Details
Saturday, August 12, 2023
Tecumseh Corn Festival
This annual celebration focuses on the rich agricultural heritage of the region and paying homage to the sacred corn crop. =. Details
August 25 – 27, 2023
167th Harrow Fair
The Harrow Fair is an old-fashioned country fair with horse shows, prize chickens, award-winning quilts, red ribbon baking, and amazing live entertainment. Details
August 31 – September 3, 2023
Last Call Before Fall
Last Call Before Fall aims to celebrate the local community and offers an opportunity to try new or familiarize oneself with local craft beer, wine, and spirits. Attendees can enjoelicious food and live music, ensuring a night of non-stop dancing and entertainment. Details
Saturday, September 2, 2023 | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Great Lakes Super Series
Great Lakes Super Series is a premier bass fishing tour in South-Western Ontario. Details
September 8 – 10, 2023
Activities in (and around) Windsor-Essex Region
Go on a cruise
Enjoy an afternoon scenic tour of the Detroit River while listening to a live-audio commentary on the history and cultural significance of the Detroit River and its surrounding areas. You can choose from a sunset cruise, historic Amherstburg cruise, dinner cruise and more! Details
Hike or Bike the Waterfront Trail
Can you complete the Windsor-Essex section of the waterfront trail that runs from Lakeshore to Leamington this summer – a total of 213.2 kilometres? Details
Credit: Waterfront Trail
A Fun Time on the Pottery Wheel
Perfect date night or a night out with a friend, this relaxed 2-hour session teach you the basics of the wheel. For first-timers, this will be a perfect way to “feel out” out the wheel, learn the basics, and have some fun! This session is all about having fun and making memories on the pottery wheel! Details
Glamp at Point Pelee National Park
Jungled forests, wetlands, and savannah — you can have it all at the beautiful Point Pelee National Park. Come to this park for one of the many events hosted through the summer, or just to explore nature on your own. You can bike the forests trails or walk along the boardwalk — regardless of what route you choose, you will see some of the most beautiful land along Canada’s southernmost edge. There is also an oTENTik at this National Park. Details
Go Karting
Race, or play mini-golf at Point Pelee Karting. They have a fleet of double seated and single passenger karts for a fun day out with the whole family. Details
Spend a day at the beach
Enjoy a day out at Colchester Beach which is located on the north shore of Lake Erie. After the beach trip, kids can also explore the Pirate Ship Playground and Splash Pad located nearby. Details
Join for a wine trail tour
Meander through the farmlands along the Lake Erie coastline a la bicyclette and fall in love with Canada’s southernmost region. Each Wine Trail Ride includes bicycle, helmet, tastings, food at each location and a guide. Details
Outdoor Gourmet Dining Under the Stars
Enjoy dining on the Fourth Floor Viewpoint Terrace Overlooking the Detroit Skyline at St Clair Centre for the Arts. Saturdays in July & August, reservations starting at 6 pm, 6:30 pm and 8:30 pm. Details
Go, Ghost Hunting.
Join the adventure of Olde Amherstburg Ghost Tour which features 13+ ghostly stories with haunting illustrations by Nick Marinkovich, more than 30 historical reference photos, and 360 degree photography of building interiors. Details
Explore Hillman Marsh Conservation Area
Climb the viewing tower and explore 5 kilometres of trails at this famous birding location adjacent to Lake Erie. Best visited during late summer to see fall migration, as over one hundred species of birds use Hillman as a migration stopover. Details
Go on Barrels, Bottles and Brews Tour
Explore & pour the 12 craft breweries & 2 distilleries in Windsor Essex that make up the Barrels Bottles & Brews trail! Visit the stops along the way of the Windsor Essex barrel trail – the birthplace of Canadian whisky, award winning vodkas, and craft breweries featuring some of the finest ales, lagers, stouts and more! Details
Boblo Island
Go on a boat trip to this boat only accessible island, in the Detroit River. Have a beach day at White Sands located at the south end of Boblo Island — a beautiful sandy beach that is groomed weekends from Victoria Day weekend in May through Labour Day or fish for Muskie, Walleye, White Bass or Yellow Perch in the Crystal Bay. Details
Learn about Canada’s Early Military History
Visit Fort Malden National Historic Site and learn about the War of 1812 and the Rebellions of 1838. Details
Visit Serenity Lavender Farm
Serenity Lavender Farm boasts more varieties of lavender than any other lavender farm in Ontario. Spend a day among this fragrant flower and taste some of the incredible creations baked and brewed with its essence. You’ll feel at once enchanted and relaxed by this summertime blossom. Details
Pick Your Own Dahlias
Visit Colour Pop Florals, a family run flower farm growing cut Dahlias & Ranunculus to make your dahlia bouquets from August to September. Pre-booked tickets are required for PYOs. Details
See a lighthouse
Visit the Lighthouse Conservation Area located at the mouth of the Thames River at Lake St. Clair to see one of the oldest lighthouses on the Great Lakes. The lighthouse that was built in early 1800’s was destroyed by fire during the War of 1812. It was rebuilt in 1818. Details
Get Farm Fresh Food
Get farm fresh fruit, vegetables, produce and unique artisan food products at Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market. The 2023 season runs every Saturday from 9am-2pm starting April 1 until October 28! Details
Tour through Windsor’s Art
This tour explores Windsor Sculpture Park’s sculptures and monuments using your smart phone or tablet. Visit the sculpture park and fire up the app for an interactive experience that lets you be your own tour guide as you experience Windsor’s outdoor “museum without walls.” Details
Go on a whiskey tasting at J.P. Wiser’s Distillery
Whiskey fans will love the tour of J.P. Wiser’s Distillery. Starting at the end of June, join with a group of people and be guided through the process it takes to make a great Canadian whiskey. By the end of the tour, you’ll have a chance to buy some of the whiskey you’re now an expert in. Open through the weekend, spend an hour and a half in Whiskey heaven at J.P Wiser’s distillery this summer. Details
Check out Windsor’s West Windsor Farmers’ Market
For a taste of the area, head to the West Windsor Farmers’ Market, which runs on Saturdays and Sundays from May to October and celebrates what this region can grow, as well as the artisanal community that flourishes here. Delight in something sweet, or bring back an authentic souvenir — whatever you find, you’ll know it was created with love and spirit. Details
Get out and surf with the Urban Surf Company
Have you ever wanted to try surfing but never had the opportunity? Here is your chance! Head out on Lake St Clair with Urban Surf, who will set you up with a stand up paddleboard, a canoe, a pedal board, and all sorts of paddling lessons. Choose your lake adventure and be trained by the experts. Afterwards, check out the smoothie bar on shore. You’ll be sure to have worked up an appetite. Details
Camp in luxury at Camper’s Cove
For over 50 years, Camper’s Cove has been a favourite destinations for local and travelling campers alike. This lakeside location features a general store, a sandy beach, cabins, power hookups, a video game room, a snack bar, and so much more. It will be hard to come back to reality after a few nights at Camper’s Cove. Details
Hands-on Heritage
The Park House Museum is the oldest house in Amherstburg, and through the summer you have the opportunity to enjoy a picturesque tea experience. Soak up the history as you take your tea in the backyard and overlook the Detroit River, or learn a new skill. There is a wide range of activities… baking, candle making, crafts, butter churning, sausage making and much more. Saturdays & Sundays in July. Details
Adventure Bay Family Water Park
Make a splash at Adventure Bay! With over 35,000 square feet of wild water adventures that includes 5 giant waterslides, Lazy River, and many other water play features! Details
Explore the Shore
Get in your car and drive along Canada’s southernmost scenic road – County Road 50, and visit wineries, restaurants, and enjoy recreational activities. Let yourself be surprised als you Explore the Shore. Details
Hike the Kopegaron Woods
Take a hike along one of the most beautiful forest boardwalk trails in the region. While exploring this 19 hectare Carolinian woodland, you’ll see Tulip-tree, Sassafras, Black Gum, Sycamore and Flowering Dogwood trees, as well as wildflowers such as Trillium, Jack-in-the-pulpit, May Apple, Spring Beauty and Columbine, to mention just a few. Details
Visit the historic Jack Miner Bird Sanctuary
Jack Miner established this bird sanctuary in 1904, making it a part of Essex County’s history and a true gem of Kingsville. You can still feed the water fowl here, and now you can also visit the museum and Jack Miner house for an extra touch of history. Admission is free and the grounds are open from dawn to dusk. Details
Explore the Cedar Creek Conservation Area
The Cedar Creek Conservation Area is a pride of the Essex region. This park is full of eagles, egrets, turtles and other wildlife revelling in their natural habitat. With woodlands and creeks galore, you never know what you will find while exploring here. Spend some time kayaking, or just hit the trails and explore this natural wonder to your heart’s desire. Details
Rent a bicycle and explore Pelee Island
If you’re looking for a Pelee Island bike adventure, let Comfortech take care of you. Rent a Comfortech , beach, or mountain bike and pick up one of their biking maps before you hit the trails. You can also buy equipment here — a real possibility after you fall in love with the area. Helmets are rented out at no extra charge. Get on your way with Comfortech Bike Rentals. Take the ferry to Pelee Island. Details
JF BERGERON/Destination Ontario
Go back in time to the 1850s at John R. Park Homestead and Conservation Area
A visit to the John R. Park Homestead and Conservation Area will take you back in time to the 1850s. Explore the Parks’ magnificent Classical Revival home, built in 1842, taste baking from the kitchen fireplace or play with a wooden toy in the children’s bedrooms and take a scenic walk on the lakeshore boardwalk. Details
Cut through the region on the Chrysler Canada Greenway Trail
Fifty kilometres of trails are available for you to explore at the Chrysler Canada Greenway Trail. Touching the southernmost link of the Trans Canada Trail, this Greenway is the best way to get a real feel for the landscape of the Essex region. You’ll pass bridges, see the rural parts of Ontario, and experience as much summertime greenery as you can take. Hit the trail at the Chrysler Canada Greenway Trail. Details
Admire the Detroit Skyline from The Dieppe Gardens
The Dieppe Gardens is the place to go if you want to appreciate just how close Windsor is to the American border. Come here for an incredible view of the Detroit Skyline across the river, and hang out among the blooms and blossoms of summertime. Check out the waterfall and fish pond, and don’t miss the monuments to the soldiers who lost their lives in the second world war. Details
Create a meal from fresh produce from Fred’s Farm Fresh
Fred’s Farm Fresh brings you the full range of farm foods, both local and expertly imported. From meats to cheeses to fresh baked breads — you won’t be able to stop here without taking home something delicious. Fred’s Farm Fresh is located in Windsor for your convenience, and the employees are ready to make the perfect recommendation for your perfect meal. Details
Explore Windsor’s famous Sculpture Park
A true highlight of exploring Windsor, the Windsor Sculpture Park is “a museum without walls” and features 31 internationally recognized works of art. Download the Sculptures and Monuments app for guided tours or take a stroll and appreciate the art at your own pace. However you choose to enjoy these art pieces, you’ll be happy to be outdoors in the hot Ontario summer. Details
Treat yourself at A Hidden Gem Bed and Breakfast
Treat yourself to a B&B experience in the historic Walkerville area of Windsor with A Hidden Gem Bed and Breakfast. Whether you’re embarking on a Windsor vacation or just need a summertime staycation, you’ll be treated to a hearty breakfast, a private suite, and you’ll be situated near both the river and the casino. Ask your hosts for tips on where to explore — they have lived here their whole lives and are bona fide experts. Details
Mini Golf!
On the Water Miniature Golf in Tecumseh boasts of two spectacular – Pirate Island and Lost Island – 18 hole miniature golf courses. There are fifteen cascading waterfalls, a pirate ship and even a 34 foot treehouse. Details
A walking tour of murals
Explore 13 murals that tell the story of the town of Essex. Details
Relax on the green at Ambassador Golf Club
If you’re looking for a great game of golf this season, check out Ambassador Golf Club, known as “the region’s premier public golf and banquet facility”. This course has been ranked one of Canada’s Top 59 Golf Courses for its beauty and challenges. With 18-holes at par 71, as well as a highly esteemed restaurant and ProShop, you’ll have everything you need to spend a great day on the green. Details
The John Freeman Walls Historical Site & Underground Railroad Museum
Visit this unique tourist attraction to understand and experience the first great secret movement, allowing thousands of fugitive slaves to enter into Canada to obtain freedom. The interactive guided tour stimulates travelling the Underground Railroad. Details
Get a glimpse of our automotive past
Stop by the Canadian Transportation Museum and Heritage Village for a glimpse into our automotive past. The 100-acre site houses one of the largest vehicle museums in Ontario and over a dozen buildings of local significance dating back to the late 1800s. The museum will conduct its first Butterfly Festival on July 15, 2023 with a host activities including planting pollinating plants, learning about gardening, pollinator parade, butterfly kite ontest and more. Details
Explore McAuliffe Woods
Located in the Town of Tecumseh, McAuliffe Woods is a great visit with young kids. The 1 kilometre trail through wooded area is paved, offering easy accessibility for walkers, wheelchairs and strollers. Details
History and beauty meet at The King’s Navy Yard Park
The Kings’s Navy Yard Park is a luscious garden and a part of history all at once. Find the lighthouse beacon, anchors, and cannons, then explore the gardens. Once a shipyard, this park is now a Bi-Centennial International Peace Garden, and features waterfront views and blossoms that will have you lost in the present moment. Details
Visit the secluded Peche Island Park
Peche Island has a historical story of its own, passing between hands before being acquired by the City of Windsor in 1999. Now, this island is a full park complete with walking trails and picnic areas. You’ll need to have or charter a boat to get there, but this park is worth the trip. With the true beauty that can only come from being surrounded completely by water, this is a memorable Windsor destination. Details
Spend time in the famous Ojibway Nature Centre and Parks System
The Ojibway Nature Centre and Parks System is world-renowned for its incredible 247 species, walking trails, and expert staff. Not only is this a wonderful park to explore on your own, but the nature centre also includes hands-on events, wildlife exhibits, and rooms to rent. Best of all — admission is free! Stop by this famous natural environment this summer for a real treat. Details
Shop among history in the historic Walkerville BIA
The Walkerville BIA is unique in many ways. This street is now a collection of boutique shops, but once it was at the heart of prohibition, smuggling, and was integral to the birth of labour unions. As you walk through this area, you will see signs of its rich history in the historic buildings and pride of the area — while also indulging in the vibrant shopping experience the district has become. Details
Explore Kingsville Military Museum
Learn about the sacrifices of the men and women in the military as well as the contributions of early settlers and native Canadians to the life style we presently enjoy in this county at Kingsville Historical Park. Details
Appreciate Windsor’s street art at Artist Alley
Bringing some of the biggest names in street art together, the project known as Artist Alley is a sight to behold. Make sure to visit this alley between Ouellete and Pelissier streets to take in the variety of colours and art styles that sometimes reach as high as two storeys. When you’re done, take that inspiration for a walk around the city and see Windsor with new eyes. Details
Taste the sweetness of the area at Raymont’s Berries
Specializing in strawberries and raspberries, Raymont’s berries also sells a variety of local and delicious produce. This farm has been in the family since 1897 — making Raymont’s Berries an expert at what they sell. Stop by their fruit stand or come and pick your own as you learn about how this farm grows their delectable fruit. Details
Spend a weekend camping at Holiday Beach Conservation Area
Do not let the summer go by with out a weekend of camping at Holiday Beach! This 500 acres of Conservation area located on the the shore of Lake Erie boasts if 90 campsites with swimmable beach, picnic areas with BBQs, playground, 45-foot viewing tower, nature trails and trout pond. This is also an globally Important Bird Area that offers spectacular fall migration of hawks, eagles, hummingbirds and dragonflies, just to name a few. Details
Welcome Fall with a trip to Thiessen Orchards
Pick your own apples, join for hayrides in the orchard, or challenge yourselves in the 3 acre corn maze during late summer. Details
Canada D’Eh Run the largest run in Canada on Canada Day is in Amherstburg ON.
Thank you!
Why would you leave out the Downtown Windsor Farmers Market? Every Saturday 8am-1pm.