The first weekend of June is a special time in Windsor-Essex. Not only does it mark the beginning of our incredible festival season, it also kicks off with an event that has drawn in thousands of people from our community and beyond since 1970: Art in the Park!

The Event

This staple event is one of Ontario’s most massive arts and crafts shows, featuring over 270 exhibitors from Ontario and Quebec alike. As with previous years, Art in the Park will be held at Willistead Park, right in the core of the picturesque and historical Walkerville. Between looking at exhibits, guests can also explore Willistead Manor to learn about its unique past and the history of the community.

Food and Entertainment

Come for the art, stay for the food! Whether you’re craving local pizza, BBQ food, vegan, Middle Eastern, poutine, or ice cream, you’ll be set. Signature local beer and wine will also be available.

Transportation

The Rotary Club of Windsor will be providing free shuttle services for all guests. As part of the Park and Ride program, guests can drop their vehicles off at and be shuttled from one of the following locations: the Hiram Walker lot at the corner of Riverside Dr. E and Montreuil Ave. or the Windsor Regional Hospital lot at 1591 Kildare Rd. From there, buses will drop visitors off at the gates of Willistead Park so they can get the most out of the day. Shuttles will run from 9:40 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and from 9:40 a.m. – 5:30 p.m on Sunday.

Finally, cyclists can take advantage of the Bike Windsor-Essex bike valet service. The gate just off of Chilver Ave. will be used as an express entry for cyclists.

Milestones

This year’s Art in the Park will be particularly special, since it’s the event’s 40^th anniversary! Its founder, the Rotary Club of Windsor, will also be recognizing its 100^th year of service in the Windsor-Essex community and worldwide. Everyone is welcome to stop by to celebrate these important achievements.

Art in the Park is an iconic start to the Windsor-Essex festival season, so don’t miss out on all the fun! Rain or shine, we can guarantee it’ll be an awesome time!

To learn more about Art in the Park, please visit the event’s website.

*Image credit: Art in the Park Windsor