WINDSOR, ONT: OCTOBER 8, 2025 — “It’s a true reflection of our shared spirit” —Mayor Drew Dilkens lauds the upcoming Thanksgiving Day Lions block party during a press conference held downtown Windsor on Wednesday, October 8, 2025. Photo by Dan Janisse /Windsor StarArticle content
Downtown Windsor will once again go blue for the Detroit Lions this fall.
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The City of Windsor will host a Detroit Lions-sanctioned block party on Nov. 27 for the team’s annual Thanksgiving Day Classic against the Green Bay Packers.
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“Our community is home to a passionate and loyal Detroit Lions fanbase, and this block party is a fantastic way to celebrate that pride,” said Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens.
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“It’s a true reflection of our shared spirit, cross-border unity, and the energy that makes Windsor-Detroit one of North America’s great sports regions.
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The free, family-friendly event begins at 10 a.m. in the 300 block of Ouellette Avenue with NFL-themed activities, face painting, games, photo opportunities, outdoor bars, local food vendors, and a sea of Honolulu blue and silver.
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Fans can also participate in a scavenger hunt for a chance to win autographed Lions memorabilia.
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At 1:05 p.m., the football game will be shown live on a “massive” 32-foot screen.
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“We could not be more excited to host another Lions watch party in Windsor,” said Detroit Lions senior vice president of marketing and brand Emily Griffin.
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“We’re excited to extend the Ford Field gameday experience to our Canadian fans, right in their hometown of Windsor. It’s particularly special to do so in celebration of our Thanksgiving Day Classic, which is our most iconic tradition.”
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Emily Griffin, senior vice-president of marketing and brand with the Detroit Lions speaks to reporters about the upcoming Thanksgiving Day block party coming to downtown Windsor on Nov. 27. Photo by Dan Janisse /Windsor StarArticle content
This year’s event marks downtown Windsor’s first-ever open carry event for beverages, allowing attendees to walk freely between bars and patios with a drink in hand.
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“Events like this support our Strengthen the Core downtown revitalization plan by bringing Windsorites together,” said Dilkens, “driving tourism and economic activity, and creating another exciting experience in the heart of our city.”
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Fans are also invited to hang around for a post-game concert performed by The Jody Raffoul Band on a stage on Ouellette Avenue, hosted by the Detroit Lions, Downtown Windsor Business Improvement Association (DWBIA), and Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island.
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“I love it,” said Ward 3 Coun. Renaldo Agostino.
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“One Pride — the Detroit Lions are our team, and this event will bring Lions fans together in the heart of our city.”
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Go Blue
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To pre-register for the festivities free of charge, visit windsor-block-party.eventbrite.com.
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Invest WindsorEssex and Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island CEO Gordon Orr sports a Honolulu blue Detroit Lions hat during a press conference announcing a Thanksgiving Day block party in downtown Windsor. Photo by Dan Janisse /Windsor StarArticle content