Residents of Windsor and Essex County are ringing in 2026 with a mix of celebration and practical planning, as the region observes the statutory holiday on Thursday, January 1st. A wide array of municipal services, businesses, and transportation options will be operating on modified schedules for the first day of the new year.
Municipal Services and Public Closures
City of Windsor administrative offices will be closed for the day, along with all branches of the Windsor Public Library. This closure extends to municipal childcare centres. However, residents can still access several essential services.
211 Windsor-Essex will remain open throughout the holiday, providing information and referrals for community, health, and social services. For urgent public works matters, such as water main breaks or sewer emergencies, the city's after-hours dispatch line will be operational.
All municipal parking enforcement will be suspended for New Year's Day. This means payment will not be required at on-street meters and municipal pay-and-display machines. It is important to note that this reprieve does not apply to privately owned lots, where individual rules will be in effect.
Transportation and Cross-Border Travel
Transit Windsor will run on a Sunday/holiday schedule on January 1st. Passengers are advised to check the specific route timings online or via the transit app to plan their journeys accordingly.
For those planning cross-border travel, an important change is in effect. Canada-bound motorists using the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel will face increased tolls, as recently announced. Travelers should budget for the higher cost when planning their trips to and from Michigan.
Regarding waste collection, if your regular garbage, recycling, or organics pickup falls on New Year's Day, it will be postponed. Collections scheduled for Thursday, January 1st, will be shifted to the following day, Friday, January 2nd. Residents are reminded to have materials at the curb by 7 a.m.
Retail, Recreation, and Essential Services
Many major grocery stores and shopping malls, including Devonshire Mall, are expected to be closed for the statutory holiday. However, some smaller convenience stores and pharmacies may remain open, often with reduced hours. Shoppers are encouraged to call ahead to confirm.
The Adventure Bay Family Water Park will be open for its regular public swim sessions, offering a festive indoor activity for families. Outdoor enthusiasts should note that while parks and trails remain accessible, facilities like community centres and arenas will be closed unless hosting a pre-booked event.
As with most holidays, banks and post offices will be closed. Federal services, including Service Canada offices, will also be shut down for the day, reopening on Friday, January 2nd.
By understanding these schedules and planning ahead, residents of Windsor-Essex can ensure a smooth and enjoyable start to the year 2026, whether they are relaxing at home or venturing out to enjoy the holiday.
