As 2025 draws to a close, Windsor and Essex County are buzzing with a diverse lineup of celebrations to welcome 2026. Whether you plan to dance until dawn, enjoy a sophisticated cabaret, or watch fireworks with the family, there's an event tailored for every reveler.
Nightlife and Adult Celebrations
For those looking to party, downtown Windsor's Disco Inferno at 29 Park St. W promises a night of nostalgia with DJs spinning 2000s hits from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. on December 31. The event features champagne toasts, late-night pizza, and a photo booth, with tickets priced at $90.
Electronic music fans can head to Scarehouse Windsor on 1441 McDougall Ave. for a massive rave. The venue will host three stages, laser shows, and 20 DJs playing house, techno, and bass music until 4 a.m.. Tickets for this extended celebration start at $31.
A more theatrical experience awaits at the Cirque Du Nuit cabaret and cirque performance. Held at the Water’s Edge Event Centre (2879 Riverside Dr E), the evening includes artisanal pizza, a cash bar by Maiden Lane Wine & Spirits, and a dance floor. Tickets are available through velvetedge.ca/events.
Family-Friendly Fireworks and Festivities
Several municipalities are hosting early fireworks displays perfect for families. In LaSalle, the annual show at the Vollmer Recreation Complex (2121 Laurier Pkwy.) will launch at 7:30 p.m. from behind the outdoor pavilion.
Lakeshore residents can enjoy a festive display at the Atlas Tube Recreation Centre (447 Renaud Line Rd.) starting at 6:30 p.m.. Organizers advise arriving early to secure a good viewing spot.
Kingsville is combining skating, hot chocolate, cookies, crafts, and games at the Kingsville Arena, culminating in a 7 p.m. fireworks show to wave goodbye to 2025.
Daytime and Early Evening Celebrations
Windsor's official New Year’s Eve Rink Party at City Hall Square (400 City Hall Sq. E) offers a free, family-friendly celebration from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.. The event features a DJ, food trucks, hot chocolate, a skate lending program, and giveaways.
Parents with young children won't want to miss Essex's Noon Year’s Eve party. Held at the Maedel Community Centre (25 Gosfield Townline W), this midday event includes face painting, crafts, and carnival games, with the ball dropping at 12 p.m. sharp. Advance registration is required at essexconnect.ca.
No matter your preferred style of celebration, Windsor-Essex provides countless ways to ring in 2026. From all of us, Happy New Year!
