One of Windsor's top destinations for art lovers is set for this weekend.
The 41st edition of Art in the Park, which supports the Willistead Restoration Fund as well as the charities benefitting from the Windsor Rotary Club 1918, will dominate Willistead Park in Olde Walkerville on Saturday and Sunday, with art vendors, food, music and activities surrounding Willistead Manor.
With an event the size of Art in the Park nestled in the heart of a historic neighbourhood, parking and access tend to become issues. New this year, a shuttle bus will run from Devonshire Mall, according to Randy Winters, the chairman of the event's volunteer committee.
"We're going to have parking spots available for well over 600 vehicles," said Winters. "We're going to be running a shuttle service every 15 minutes."
The shuttle bus to Devonshire Mall was revealed during a preview event last week. The bus will pick up and drop off visitors in the north parking lot, near the former Sears store. Shuttles will also run periodically throughout the festival from the Hiram Walker parking lot on Riverside Drive East, as well as Windsor Regional Hospital's lot on Kildare Road.
Bicyclists will feel at home at Art in the Park, as organizers once again provide their popular Bike Valet. A dedicated entrance for bicycles will run at the Chilver Avenue gate to Willistead Park.
As far as the art is concerned, over 260 vendors from Canada and the U.S. will sell and display their creations. Winters said 30 of those vendors are brand new to Art in the Park. Food will once again be a big part of the event, with a variety of local restaurants providing some menu items. For those who like adult beverages, Winters said they're covered as well.
"There will be approximately ten vendors selling their local stuff," said Winters. "Hiram Walker will be selling drinks, such as mixed cocktails and imported wines."
Kids will also be able to enjoy the event at the Kids Zone, complete with a mini-putt course, inflatables and arts and crafts. Music will be played from three venues within Willistead Park.
Art in the Park was first created in 1979. Since then, the event has raised over $1.3 million toward the restoration of Willistead Manor and Park. Another $2.1 million has been raised to support local organizations like Maryvale and the John McGivney Children's centre.
Art in the Park runs rain or shine on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shuttle buses begin running at 9:40 a.m. both days, with the last run thirty minutes after closing.
Tickets are $5 per person at the gate, with advance tickets available for a looney less at select Shoppers Drug Mart stores.
Complete information is available at the official Art in the Park website.
