Last summer was arguably the most boring summer of my life. From April to August, I worked in a doctor’s office. The impressiveness of this statement diminishes when I reveal that I spent thirty-five hours every week scanning papers. The office I worked in wanted to free up its storage room which was crowded with old medical charts. Since I have opposable thumbs, I was the ideal candidate. Whether you are working in a boring office (like I was) or an exciting environment, it’s important to spend time relaxing and making memories after the school year. This summer I am determined to do just that by attending local events and activities. I refuse to live the same long, unstimulating day on repeat.
Earlier this semester I wrote a guide to exploring Walkerville, a historic neighbourhood in Windsor, Ontario. As a proud resident, I wanted to extend this guide and write about things you can do in Walkerville during the summer months. This is both a note to myself to have a redemptive summer and an endless love letter for what I believe is one of the nicest neighbourhoods in Windsor.
If you want a summer filled with art, friends, good food, and relaxation, here are some things to do in Walkerville:
- Go to Art in the Park
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The Rotary Club of Windsor hosts its annual Art in the Park in Walkerville’s Willistead Park. If you’ve never been to Art in the Park, it’s a weekend-long event in June in which hundreds of exhibitors set up booths to sell their goods. These goods include decor, candles, fudge, kids’ toys, soaps, jewelry, clothing, visual art, and so much more! I love grabbing a slice of pizza from one of the food vendors, listening to the live music, and weaving through the booths. For more information about Art in the Park, go to https://artintheparkwindsor.com/. You’ll feel inspired, giddy, and light-hearted after this festival!
- Try out a class at Breathe Pilates & Yoga Studio
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One of my goals for this summer is to try different hobbies. Another is to keep active. My friend and I have been toying around with the idea of trying a yoga class, and I’m ready to commit. Breathe, a pilates and yoga studio in Walkerville, offers single classes for $15. They also offer long-term memberships, but their single-class option is perfect if you’re just looking to casually try something new. You can view Breathe’s studio schedule and memberships at https://breathepilatesandyogastudio.com/.
- Stroll around the Walkerville Distillery District Night Market
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The Walkerville Distillery District Night Market is similar to Art in the Park: there are art and food vendors and live entertainment. It’s held on the last Friday of each summer month from 5 pm to 11 pm in front of the Walkerville Brewery. Festivals are such a nice way to socialize, relax, and support your community. Walkerville’s historical and artistic ambience elevates the typical festival experience. Learn more about this night market at https://www.walkervillebrewery.com/wddnm.
- Attend the annual fireworks
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Okay, I know what you’re thinking. There are various places in Windsor where you can watch the fireworks, but hear me out. Walkerville’s restaurants and scenery will enrich your night. Many people want to head to the riverfront early to beat the traffic, but it can be severely boring waiting around for the event to begin. To pass the time, grab a bite or drink at O’Maggio’s Kildare House, Kona Sushi, or Vito’s Pizzeria. Then, take a stroll around Willistead Park. The Walkerville neighbourhood is attached to the riverfront, so it’s only a short walk to see the fireworks from the aforementioned restaurants and the park. Plus, by being a little further from downtown, you’ll have a better chance of securing a comfortable spot to watch the fireworks from!
Don’t let this summer slip away; enjoy the events and activities Walkerville has to offer! Art in the Park and the annual fireworks are great ways to start off your summer. Art in the Park’s bustling, creative atmosphere will leave you feeling rejuvenated. Going to Walkerville to watch the fireworks gives you the chance to try amazing restaurants and see charming architecture. You can continue to enjoy this enchanting neighbourhood throughout the summer by going to the Walkerville Distillery District Night Market, where you’ll be met with good food and music. If you’re looking for a new hobby, Breathe Pilates & Yoga Studio in Walkerville offers this opportunity at a low price. Before the next school year begins, make sure to restore your physical and mental health. There’s no better place to do so than Walkerville!