June is when Essex County comes alive—with lavender blooms, the buzz of pollinators, and the clink of wine glasses on sunny patios. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape or a girls’ weekend, this corner of Ontario has everything you need to unwind, reconnect, and explore.
1. 🛍️ Local Markets & Makers
Essex County’s weekend markets are a treasure trove of handmade goods, fresh produce, and small-town charm. Stroll through:
- Leamington Farmers’ Market and Windsor’s Downtown Farmer’s Market on Saturday mornings for farm-fresh fruits, veggies, and baked goods.
- Kingsville Open Streets (Fridays in June) where downtown transforms into a pedestrian zone filled with food vendors, artists, and live music.
These markets are perfect for browsing with a coffee in hand and chatting with local makers.
2. 🎶 Music, Lavender & More: Events in Bloom
Looking for something fun on the calendar? June is packed with festivals to fill your days and nights:
- LaSalle Strawberry Festival (June 6-9) Celebrate the sweet taste of summer at the LaSalle Strawberry Festival. Enjoy delicious strawberry treats, live entertainment, a carnival and spectacular fireworks display.
- Music Off The Back Porch (June 13) Park House Museum 519-736-2511. Bring your own lawn chair. Donations welcome.
- Lavender Festival at Serenity Lavender Farm (June 21, 22): Wander fields of purple, enjoy lavender lemonade, and shop lavender-inspired products. Artisan booths to enjoy as well.
- Carrousel of the Nations (June 14–16 & 21–23): Celebrate multicultural Windsor-Essex with food, dance, and traditions from around the world.
- Kingsville Block Party (June 21): A Friday night of live music, craft beer, and community vibes right on Main Street.
3. 🏡 Stay Cozy: Romantic &
Pet-Friendly B&Bs
For that perfect “home away from home,” try one of Essex County’s many charming bed & breakfasts:
- Walnut Grove B&B in Harrow: Set on 10 acres with a koi pond and a heated pool, this full service b&b is perfect for a romantic retreat. Pet-friendly suite with separate veranda! Chalet in the woods provides a magical place to enjoy after a day of exploration.
- Cedar Circle Retreat: A peaceful, holistic escape surrounded by trees and walking trails—ideal for recharging with your besties or your partner.
- Glorious Gardens Bed & Breakfast: 2 guest suites in Harrow along County Road 50 in wine country. Private beach access upon request.
🌼 Pollinator Experience
If you love nature (and care about our ecosystem), don’t miss the Buzz About Pollinators Tour at Walnut Grove. This guided walk through wildflower meadows helps you learn about bees, butterflies, and other pollinators in their natural habitat. It’s educational and magical. https://thewalnutgrovebnb.com/services/the-buzz-about-pollinators-2/
4. 🍷 Wine Tastings with a View
Essex County is wine country—and June is prime sipping season. Take a tour or plan your own tasting route:
- Oxley Estate Winery: live music Sundays, wine tastings, and great outdoor patio tented.
- North 42 Degrees Winery: A cozy spot for wine flights and fresh seasonal cuisine with a farm to table experience.
- Paglione Estate Winery: For couples or girlfriends who appreciate Tuscan charm and wood-fired pizza.
- Coopers Hawk Vineyards: Bronze Certification from GreenStep Sustainable Tourism offers pet-friendly patio and a nature walk.
- Daisy & Co: Harrow, is local wine bar who offers small plates and live music on Fridays. Check out her link to see what’s current. https://daisyco.net/
Many wineries in the region offer outdoor patios, great views and comfy areas to hang with your besties. Grape Vine Tours offers packages where they will pick up at your accommodation which is very handy. https://grapevinetours.ca/
5.♀️ Kayaking & Cycling: The Outdoor Escape
Active types, rejoice! June’s weather is made for:
- Paddling in Kingsville: Rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards and explore Lake Erie’s calm shoreline—sunset paddles are next-level peaceful. Check out www.somewhereelseexperience.ca for kayak or paddle board rentals.
- Cycling the Greenway: This scenic trail network connects Essex towns and wine stops. Pack a picnic and spend the day pedaling past vineyards and wildflower meadows.
Point Pelee, Canada’s most southern main land: Located in Leamington, Point Pelee is a must see, great place to cycle the quiet trails, hike, catch some rays or wade along the shore. Be sure to check out the observation tower and rent a canoe or kayak while there.
💖 Why June in Essex County?
Because this place has it all: friendly faces, great wine, beautiful B&Bs, and nature that feeds your soul. Whether you’re coming for a couple’s getaway, celebrating friendship, or just need a break from the city, Essex County in June will greet you with sunshine and small-town magic.
Now that you have some inspiration, it’s time to start planning your summer getaway. We look forward to seeing you soon.