Take in art, theatre, music, fashion — and beer
There’s something in the air coming up. Perhaps it’s the scent of fat sausages, beer and sauerkraut. Windsorites can frolic in Bavarian tradition during Oktoberfest. Share in the experience this weekend as you feast on fashion, sip on wine and explore a vineyard, or get an eyeful from local painters. There’s plenty to choose from.
ARA Art Show: The Association of Representational Artists presents an eclectic mix of paintings from Carol Ouellette’s watercolour paintings; Doreen Wyatt’s acrylic floral paintings; Susan Duxter’s animal paintings, pieces from Dennis Smith, Linda Heise, and so much more from 50 local artists. The exhibit runs every weekend in October on Fridays, Oct. 5, 12, 19, and 26, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturdays, Oct. 6, 13, 20, and 27, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday, Oct. 7, 14, 21, and 28, from noon to 5 p.m. at Windsor Crossing, 1555 Talbot Rd. LaSalle. The opening reception is Friday, from 6 to 9 p.m. With a large selection to choose from, the annual show has grown over the years. Maybe it’s time to start Christmas shopping early? Call 519-9693159 or visit arawindsor.com.
Exposure Art and Fashion Exhibition: VON WindsorEssex the second annual fundraising event on Thursday, Oct. 4, at the St. Clair Centre for the Arts, 201 Riverside Dr. W. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. The fashion exhibition show begins at 8 p.m. and features local indie designers and exclusive boutiques, including: Ana Stulic, Elaine Chatwood, Cardigan Kid, Dilly Daisy, Forget the Joneses, BVogue Boutique and more. The art show presents local artists, and the night also offers hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and a silent auction. Proceeds will support VON Windsor-Essex Home Help and Supportive Housing Programs for local seniors. Tickets are $45. To purchase tickets, call 519-254-4866 ext. 6235, or email Emily Kiss at emily.kiss@von.ca
Break out your lederhosen! Villains Beastro hosts this year’s second annual Downtown Oktoberfest from Friday, Oct. 5, through Sunday, Oct. 7, at Villains Beastro, 256 Pelissier St. The festival offers traditional food including sausage, sauerkraut and pretzels. Join in the fun at the pretzel and sausage eating contest. Decorations and traditional Bavarian beer is a big part of the festivities. Live entertainment from local acts Years of Ernest and songstress Tara Watts on Friday. Live polka band, The German Duo, performs Saturday along with Clusterfolk. Extended patios begin at 5 p.m. on Friday until 2 a.m. Last year, Villains transformed the building’s interior to resemble a traditional Bavarian beer hall. Who knows what’s in store this year? Call 519-915-5215 or email info@villainsbeastro.com
Colio Estate Wines and the Windsor Feminist Theatre presents My Little Butterball, a play by Christian Bedard. Enjoy live theatre, a tour, tasting and reception this Friday, starting at 6:30 p.m. at Colio Estate Winery Pavilion, 1 Colio Dr. Harrow (off Walker Road). Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tours begin at 7 p.m. Reception is at 7:30 p.m. The performance starts at 8 p.m. The one-woman play takes you on a journey through the struggles of Katie Redding, through song, dance and laughter. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. To reserve, call 519-738-2241 or 1-800-265-1322, or visit coliowinery.com.
Windsor Folk Acoustic Stage: The Windsor Folk Music and Arts Society presents a night for local acoustic musicians to entertain the public with original and cover music. The next open mike night is Friday, at 8 p.m. at Mackenzie Hall, 3277 Sandwich St. Free admission. Donations are welcome. To perform, call 519-978-3274, or visit windsorfolk.org.