Windsor-Essex Weekend Events: From Book Crawls to Taco Showdowns
This weekend in Windsor-Essex offers a diverse array of activities for residents and visitors alike. Whether you are a book lover, a food enthusiast, or a fan of vintage treasures, there is something for everyone. Here is a curated guide to the top happenings from Friday, April 24, through Sunday, April 26.
Book Crawl for Independent Bookstore Day
Celebrate Canadian Independent Bookstore Day with a weekend-long book crawl across five local indie shops: Whiskeyjack Boutique, Biblioasis Bookshop, River Bookshop, The Book Nook, and Juniper Books. The event runs from Friday to Sunday (April 24-26). Make a purchase at each store for a chance to win a grand prize or runner-up goodies. This is a wonderful opportunity to support local businesses, discover hidden literary gems, and turn book-shopping into a community-wide adventure. More details can be found at whiskeyjackboutique.com.
Earth Day Tree Planting Celebration
The Essex Region Conservation Authority hosts its annual Enwin Earth Day Tree Planting Celebration on Sunday, April 26, along the Ganatchio Trail in east Windsor. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., with volunteers planting thousands of trees. Over the past 27 years, this initiative has added nearly 40,000 trees across the city. Participants are encouraged to bring their own shovels if possible, though a limited number will be available on site. Parking is available at Riverside Kiwanis Park, McHugh Park, and public lots along Riverside Drive East, with access to the site via the Ganatchio Trail system. Opening ceremonies begin at 10 a.m., followed by the tree planting.
Halfway to Halloween Market
Halloween enthusiasts can get an early start on spooky season at the Halfway to Halloween Market on Saturday, April 25, at St. Cyril’s Slovak Centre (1520 Chandler Rd.). The event runs from noon to 7 p.m. with free admission. Browse a collection of oddities, eerie artwork, handcrafted goods, macabre decor, and other unusual finds. It is a perfect outing for those who love all things creepy and creative.
Battle of the Tacos in Leamington
Sample your way through the Uptown Leamington BIA during the Battle of the Tacos on April 25. Local restaurants will compete at The Bank Theatre (10 Erie St. S) for best taco, presentation, and people’s choice. A panel of judges will help decide the winners. Enjoy live music while you eat. Doors open at 5 p.m., and tacos are served at 6 p.m. Tickets are $35 at the door on a first-come, first-served basis.
Ford City Flea Market
The 1000 block of Drouillard Road transforms into a bustling open-air market on April 26, featuring vintage clothing, housewares, books, and more. Dozens of vendors, live music, and a friendly neighbourhood atmosphere make this an ideal Sunday outing. The Ford City Flea runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, visit fordcity.ca/events.
Indiana Jones Concert by WSCO
The Windsor Symphony Community Orchestra (WSCO) concludes its season on April 25 with a program inspired by the iconic score from the Indiana Jones franchise. Expect sweeping, cinematic music that brings adventure to the stage. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for students, available at windsorsymphony.com.
