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A dazzling display of festive patriotic floats, marching bands, bagpipers, equine units and giant inflatables entertained Canada Day parade-goers celebrating the country’s 157th birthday.
Thousands of people lined the parade route, which this year returned to downtown for the first time since 2019, in a sea of red and white.
The Windsor Parade Corporation’s annual fete began at Wyandotte Street, proceeding down Ouellette Avenue to Riverside Drive and west on Riverside to Caron Avenue.
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This year, Canada Day cupcakes were served throughout the morning, provided by downtown-based bakery Spoontastic Treats.
Jerrad Floyd, 9, and his mom Amber Hamelin of Windsor came downtown early to grab a cupcake, check out the market and grab a prime viewing spot on Ouellette Avenue.
“This is nice to be able to get back out into the community (after COVID-19 cancelled so many events) and enjoy what the city brings for us,” Hamelin said.
“I think it’s nice to see a lot of happy families and people getting out to enjoy the day.”
Jerrad said his favourite part of the parade is the horses.
“I was excited that now it’s back on Ouellette,” Hamelin said. “They’ve brought it back downtown where it’s really nice to see the floats, the families, the kids.
“We’re really looking forward to the bands.”
Children worked off some of their excess energy at the Family Fan Zone enjoying games, colouring and entertainment prior to the parade start.
The Downtown Windsor Canada Day Arts Fair took over Pelissier Street between Wyandotte Street and Park Street West.
Local vendors showcased unique items including vintage clothing, home decor, collectibles, crafts, art pieces and more.
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And the city’s outdoor public pools at parks in Lanspeary, Mic Mac, Atkinson, Remington Booster and Riverside Centennial were open Monday afternoon for recreational swimming, along with Adventure Bay Family Water Park.
Canada Day, formerly known as Dominion Day, marks the anniversary of Canadian confederation on July 1, 1867.
Amherstburg residents celebrated Canada with an evening of live music at the King’s Navy Yard Park, followed by fireworks.
Kingsville residents danced the night away at Kingsville Arena and enjoyed their own fireworks display.
Leamington residents were entertained with a free concert by Michelle Wright and Terri Clark at the SUNSET Amphitheatre and a fireworks show, while family activities, live entertainment, food, beach volleyball and a fireworks show rounded out Canada Day in Lakeshore.
jkotsis@postmedia.com
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