Windsor Scottish Festival

Question

Can anyone comment on the Scottish Festival in Windsor in mid-August? Do I need 2 days to see everything, or can it be done in 1? Is parking on site? Where's a good place to stay nearby overnight?

Answer

The Windsor Scottish Festival in mid-August is a fantastic event, especially for anyone interested in Scottish culture, traditions, and heritage. It's one of the largest Scottish festivals in North America, offering a mix of highland games, music, food, dancing, and more. Here’s a detailed overview to help you plan your visit:

1. Duration: Do you need two days?

While it's possible to enjoy much of the festival in one day, two days would give you more time to explore everything at a leisurely pace. The festival is packed with events, and depending on your interests, you may want more time to take in all the performances, competitions, and cultural exhibits. If you're especially interested in the Highland Games, dancing, or pipe bands, you may find two days to be beneficial. Otherwise, if you're looking to cover the basics, one day should suffice.

For a one-day visit: You can enjoy the key events, including the opening ceremonies, pipe and drum performances, the caber toss, and clan displays.
For a two-day visit: You can take your time to explore all the smaller events like dancing competitions, Scottish foods and beverages, workshops, and more.

2. Parking:

Yes, there is parking available on-site at the festival, but it can get crowded, especially on weekends. There are also off-site parking options with shuttle services to the festival grounds, so it’s always good to arrive early if you want to park as close to the event as possible. If you're planning on attending a lot of events or spending the entire day, consider parking in a nearby area and taking a shuttle to avoid the hassle of finding a spot close to the entrance.

3. Where to Stay:

If you’re looking for accommodations close to the festival, there are several options in Windsor that are a short drive from the festival grounds. You can stay in downtown Windsor for easy access to restaurants and entertainment, or choose a more tranquil location outside the city for a relaxing experience. Here are a few options:

Downtown Windsor: The waterfront area offers several hotels that are close to both the festival and other local attractions. Consider the Caesars Windsor Hotel for a luxurious stay, or Holiday Inn & Suites for a more affordable, family-friendly option.
Near the Festival Grounds: If you want to stay closer to the festival site, consider booking a room at Quality Inn & Suites Downtown Windsor or Windsor Hotel & Suites. Both are a short drive or shuttle ride away from the festival.
Airbnb Options: For a more local, homey experience, there are plenty of vacation rentals available in Windsor and surrounding areas. This could be a good choice if you're looking for a longer stay or prefer more space.

4. Other Things to Consider:

Weather: The weather in mid-August can be warm, but be prepared for the possibility of rain. Bring layers, especially if you plan to stay for the evening events, as temperatures can cool down after sunset.
Food: The festival offers a variety of Scottish and local foods, but lines can get long, especially during peak times. Be prepared for a wait or bring some snacks in case you're hungry between meals.
Nearby Attractions: If you have extra time, Windsor has a number of attractions to enjoy, such as the Windsor Sculpture Park, Willistead Manor, and the Canadian Aviation Museum.

Overall, the Windsor Scottish Festival is a memorable experience for both newcomers and those familiar with Scottish culture. Whether you visit for one or two days, you’ll be immersed in a rich display of Scottish heritage, music, and fun!