Windsor–Detroit International Freedom Festival facts for kids
The International Freedom Festival is a big party that celebrates two important holidays: Canada Day (on July 1st) and the American Independence Day (on July 4th). This festival brings together the cities of Detroit, Michigan in the United States, and Windsor, Ontario in Canada. It's a huge event that attracts about 3.5 million visitors! The festival first started way back in 1959.
In 2007, the festival changed and became two separate events. These are now known as the Windsor Summer Fest and the Detroit River Days.
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What is Summer Fest?
Summer Fest is a 19-day celebration that happens along the beautiful riverfront in Windsor, Ontario. Over 500,000 people come to enjoy this event every year. It's a great way to experience the fun and excitement of Windsor!
What are Detroit River Days?
The Detroit RiverFront Conservancy started the River Days festival in June 2007. This event helps show off the amazing changes made to the Detroit International Riverfront. The festival first celebrated the opening of new parts of the Detroit RiverWalk. It continues each year to highlight this special area in Detroit.
The Amazing Fireworks Show
The most exciting part of both festivals is the incredible fireworks display! This show celebrates both American Independence Day and Canada Day. It's one of the biggest and most spectacular fireworks shows in all of North America. The fireworks light up the sky over both Windsor and Detroit. More than 1,000,000 people gather along the riverfronts to watch this yearly show. It usually takes place on a Monday that falls during both festivals.
Festival Fun and Activities
For many years, the festival had several days of events. It always ended with one of the world's largest fireworks shows. The main fireworks event used to be on the last Wednesday of June. But in 2010, it moved to a Monday.
Carnival Rides and Games
On the Windsor side of the festival, there is a fun carnival. This carnival has lots of rides and games for everyone to enjoy. It's a great place to find extra events and exciting attractions. The carnival, called the Midway, operates on its own at the end of June and beginning of July.
Who Helps Make it Happen?
For a long time, a company called Hudson's helped pay for the festival. Later, their new company, Target, took over as a sponsor until 2013. Then, the Ford Motor Company became the main sponsor. The event was then called the Ford Fireworks presented by Target.
Watching and Listening to the Show
You can watch the fireworks show on TV! It's broadcast by the NBC channel WDIV-TV. If you prefer to listen, the radio station WJR plays music that goes along with the fireworks. This makes the show even more exciting!
Community Support
On the Windsor side, Zehrs helps out by providing free buses. These buses, run by Transit Windsor, help people get to the fireworks easily. The Ford Fireworks show is put together by The Parade Company of Detroit.
