"This is the one day of the year we close the streets to open the streets."
That's what Gordon Orr, CEO of Tourism Windsor-Essex Pelee Island, said at a kick-off event for Open Streets Windsor 2026.
St. Clair College and St. Clair Alumni are the title sponsors for the 10th annual festival, which takes place on Sunday, Sept. 20, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
This year, the family-friendly event will feature two distinct routes, highlighting seven vibrant community hubs throughout Windsor's east end, including Miracle Park, Olde Riverside, Pillette Village, the Power Hub, Ottawa Street, Lanspeary Park and the Via Italia Hub. The routes are split into two this year due to construction along the traditional route.
"It helps people pause, see and reflect, and check out businesses and communities that maybe they haven't seen before. And it's supporting local business, which at this time is very, very important," said Orr. "It gets you out of your car and onto any other mode of transportation that slows you down and allows you to see what's in your own backyard."
During the event, local roadways are transformed into car-free spaces where people can stroll, cycle, rollerblade, gather and explore, while enjoying live music, games, community programming and have genuine interactions within the distinct neighbourhoods of Windsor.
"It's a great way to celebrate our region and city through the business districts. They really are the DNA of our community, they're the lifeblood," Orr added. "Small businesses are what keep our engines going. And these retailers, restaurateurs and folks who sell wares, they want people to stop by and see something new."
St. Clair College and St. Clair Alumni will have a presence at the event, with a tent and yard games at the Lanspeary Park Hub.
"At St. Clair College, we look for opportunities like this to continue our legacy of being part of the community. We are, after all, a community College and want to celebrate that alongside you, and the 150,000 people who call themselves St. Clair Alumni," said John Fairley, Sr. Vice President of Communications, Advancement and External Relations at St. Clair College.
Michael Chantler, the Commissioner of Community Services at the City of Windsor, said Open Streets was launched in 2016 to get people exploring the city in a unique way that supports local business and creates deeper connections.
"There are two groups we can't run this event without, and that's our sponsors and volunteers. And we're so thankful to have St. Clair College and its Alumni as our title sponsors," said Chantler. "It's the connection the College has with the community, and with St. Clair College and its Alumni, it's about engaging people and that's what Open Streets is all about."
Chantler added that the city is also still looking for volunteers to help ensure the event runs smoothly.
"Volunteers help secure the route, direct people, and get people in the right places so they can enjoy the event," said Chantler.
"It's a day to set aside the car keys, get active and actually connect with people both within and outside our neighbourhoods," said Joe D'Angela, Sr. Director of the Advancement Office at St. Clair. "Our Alumni show up for events across this great region because we know the value of community, and we're so happy to be part of an annual event which shares the same goal."
For more information about Open Streets, visit the city's dedicated Open Streets website.
