Windsor residents gathered on Saturday, May 9, 2026, to celebrate the city's 134th birthday at City Hall Square. The family-friendly event drew a diverse crowd, offering free hot dogs, Tim Hortons coffee, and birthday cupcakes distributed by Mayor Drew Dilkens and city councillors.
Festivities and Highlights
The celebration included musical performances by Big Louis and the Band, fronted by Alysia Therrien, who led a spirited rendition of Happy Birthday. Attendees enjoyed Zumba, bhangra, self-defence, salsa, and karate demonstrations, alongside yard games, chalk art, colouring activities, and community partner booths with giveaways. Free admission was also available to the Chimczuk Museum and Art Windsor-Essex.
Mayor Reflects on City Square
Mayor Dilkens recalled last year's inauguration of the splash fountain during a warmer day, but noted that the square's conversion to an ice rink during the city's coldest winter in over a decade proved highly popular. "We had the coldest winter we’ve had in more than a decade, and this place was full almost every day with people skating and enjoying this free public space," he said. The $15.4-million public square, approved by city council, was designed as a free gathering space for families.
Optimism Amid Challenges
Despite regional challenges such as high unemployment due to U.S. tariffs, Dilkens expressed optimism about Windsor's future. "I’m incredibly optimistic about the future of this community and all of the things that we have going on," he said. "We have lots to celebrate." City CAO Ray Mensour emphasized that the annual birthday event is an opportunity to recognize Windsor as a vibrant, welcoming place to live, work, and visit.
The event also featured long lineups for free hot dogs, with attendees enjoying the festive atmosphere. The celebration underscored community spirit and the success of City Hall Square as a hub for public gatherings.
