Downtown Windsor will be part of a nationwide celebration leading up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as the city gears up for a weekend packed with events including the Carrousel of the Nations, the Windsor Waterfront Midway, the LaSalle Strawberry Festival, and more.
Star Faves
Something Sweet: LaSalle Strawberry Festival
The LaSalle Strawberry Festival returns from June 11 to 14, offering four days of live entertainment, rides, fireworks, and more at the Vollmer Culture and Recreation Complex (2121 Laurier Pkwy). This long-running event celebrates the region's agricultural roots, with strawberries and ice cream as featured attractions. The festival parade takes place Saturday, June 13 at 10 a.m. For parade route, road closures, and additional information, visit lasalle.ca.
Midway Magic: Windsor Waterfront Midway
The Windsor Waterfront Midway returns from June 12 to 28, bringing two weeks of rides, games, and classic summer treats to the Riverfront Festival Plaza (Riverside Dr. W.). Weekday hours run from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., with weekend hours from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Around the World: Carrousel of the Nations
One of Windsor-Essex's most beloved events returns this weekend as Carrousel of the Nations kicks off its first weekend of festivities from June 12 to 14. Hosted by the Multicultural Council of Windsor and Essex County, this award-winning festival invites visitors to travel the world by exploring cultural villages throughout the region. Enjoy authentic cuisine, music, performances, and exhibits celebrating the history of dozens of nations. Admission is free, with food and beverages available for purchase. Check out carrouselofnations.com for the lineup.
Classic Chrome: Corvette Club of Windsor Waterfront Show
The Corvette Club of Windsor brings its annual waterfront show to Dieppe Park (78 Riverside Dr. W.) on Sunday, June 14 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Check out a lineup of classic, custom, and exotic Corvettes. The event is free.
For the Kids
Cast Away: Optimist Club Kids Fishing Derby
Kids can cast a line and try their luck at the Optimist Club of St. Clair Beach Kids Fishing Derby on Saturday, June 13 at Lakewood Park (13451 Riverside Dr. E.) in Tecumseh. Running from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., this free event turns the waterfront into a laid-back morning of fishing, learning, and friendly competition. Worms are provided, and free hot dogs, chips, and water keep things fueled between catches.
Big Machines: Meet-A-Machine
Children can climb aboard and explore machines of all sizes at Meet-A-Machine on Saturday, June 13 at the WFCU Centre (8787 McHugh St.) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Hosted by the City of Windsor, this annual event gives youngsters a chance to get up close with a variety of vehicles and equipment. Attendees will also receive a free book. A sensory-friendly hour runs from 9 to 10 a.m. Registration is required.
FIFA World Cup
Sandwich Town: 89X Summer Series
Soccer fans can gather on Sandwich Street on Friday, June 12 for the return of the 89X Summer Series. This free outdoor fan zone will feature a giant 32-foot screen showing Canada's home opener against Bosnia and Herzegovina at 3 p.m., followed by the United States versus Paraguay at 9 p.m. The event includes opening ceremonies, a beer tent, giveaways, and soccer activities for kids. Gates open at 1 p.m.
City Hall Square: Canada Celebrates Tour
Downtown Windsor will be part of a nationwide celebration leading up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Canada Celebrates tour stops at city hall (400 City Hall Sq. E.) on Wednesday, July 15. The event promises to bring soccer, culture, and community as excitement builds for the World Cup. Additional details will be announced in the coming weeks. For more information, visit visitwindsoressex.com.
