My First Time at Art in the Park Windsor, 2025 (And Why I’ll Never Miss It Again)
Every first weekend in June, something magical happens at Willistead Park, it is called Art in the Park.
If you’ve ever wandered beneath the towering oaks of this storied Windsor estate, weaving through white tents, the scent of kettle corn in the air, and live jazz spilling through the branches—you know exactly what I’m talking about. This year’s Art in the Park Windsor was no exception. It was a delightful blend of tradition and new energy, with artists, families, and foodies all converging in what felt like a giant, artsy block party… with better snacks.
But before we dive into the 2025 experience (and yes, the wood-fired pizza was chef’s kiss), let’s take a walk through history.
A Canvas of Community: The Origins of Art in the Park Windsor
Back in 1978, the Rotary Club of Windsor (1918) envisioned an event that would do more than showcase creativity—it would help preserve heritage and build community.
They chose Willistead Manor, a striking 36-room mansion built in 1906 for Edward Walker, the second son of Hiram Walker (yes, that Hiram Walker—of Canadian Club whisky fame). With its Tudor-Jacobean architecture and lush parkland, Willistead became the perfect backdrop for the region’s emerging art scene.
From just a handful of local artists in its early days, Art in the Park has evolved into one of Ontario’s largest outdoor arts and crafts festivals, drawing over 30,000 visitors annually and raising over $1.3 million in support of Willistead Manor’s restoration and community programs.
Art in the Park Windsor 2025: This Year’s Experience
This year’s Art in the Park, held on June 7 & 8 , 2025, was a full-on sensory celebration. From the moment you entered the grounds, the energy was electric.
Here’s a quick snapshot of what 2025 brought to the table:
Over 300 Artists and Artisans
You name it—hand-thrown pottery, abstract paintings, photography, jewelry, glasswork, Indigenous beadwork, upcycled fashion, even soap so beautiful you’d hesitate to use it. Artists came from across Ontario and as far as Quebec and Michigan, but there was a strong Windsor-Essex representation this year (shoutout to Walkerville’s own Jennifer from Feather & Fig Studio!)
🎶 Live Music All Weekend
The performance lineup featured everything from jazz trios to indie folk bands and a surprise Sunday morning steel drum performance that had toddlers and seniors dancing alike.
🍽️ Local Flavours on Display
The food and drink scene this year was fire. I’m talking gourmet grilled cheese from Toasty’s, vegan Thai from Carrots n’ Dates, and boozy slushies courtesy of Walkerville Brewery. The park’s shaded picnic spots made it easy to relax between shopping sprees.
🧒 Family-Friendly Features
Kids got hands-on with crafts at the “Mini Maker” tent and even tried their hand at printmaking. There was face painting, a bubble zone, and local storytime sessions under the big willow tree near the rose garden.
Planning for Next Year Art in the Park?
If Art in the Park is still on your to-do list, don’t wait another year. A few first-timer tips:
✔️ Arrive early on Saturday for best selection
✔️ Take the shuttle (Transit Windsor makes it easy)
✔️ Wear comfy shoes
✔️ Bring a reusable bag—shopping happens
✔️ Don’t skip the wine garden or live music zones
Falling in Love with Walkerville?
After a day wandering Willistead Park, it’s easy to see the charm of the surrounding neighbourhood. Walkerville isn’t just the backdrop to this event—it’s part of the experience.
If moving closer to Windsor’s creative energy sounds like a dream, it might be time to make it a plan.
Let’s find you a home near all the action, where festivals like Art in the Park are just a stroll away.
