Discovering the Cultures and Cuisines of Carrousel of the Nations
Rich in heritage, Essex County is one of Canada’s most diverse communities; a vibrant collage of traditions and flavours that represent our global roots.
Each June, Windsor-Essex comes alive with the sights, sounds, and tastes of each of these amazing nationalities through Carrousel of the Nations; the only multicultural festival of its kind in Southwestern Ontario and one of the most anticipated celebrations of the year.
The 2025 Carrousel of the Nations takes place June 13th to 15th and 20th to 22nd. This year marks a special milestone as the award-winning festival celebrates its 50th anniversary, honouring five decades of cultural pride, connection, and community.
Hosted by the Multicultural Council of Windsor and Essex County, the two-week festival is known for introducing residents to a wide array of global cultures and traditions…one bite at a time.
Whether you’re a seasoned Carrousel pro or discovering the festival for the first time, we have two words of advice: come hungry. One of the best ways to truly experience a culture is through their food, and Carrousel offers countless opportunities to sample the unique flavours of each nationality.
Want to take your taste buds on a world tour? Here are just a few of our “must try” spots and dishes on the route this year. From Carrousel staples to newer additions, we encourage you to dive in fork-first to the culinary treasures found across the city and county:
The Italian Village – Roma Club of Leamington
Enjoy la dolce vita and a taste of that famous Italian hospitality at the long-running Italian Village. Located at the Roma Club in Leamington, this stop is one of two Italian villages in the festival and features activities for the whole family, live Italian music, and of course, a full menu of authentic, mouth-watering eats including crispy arancini, tender meatballs and Italian sausage, wood fired pizza, pasta, and sweet treats like Nutella crepes and signature Italian pastries.
The Polish Village – The Polish Beach Club
The Polish Beach Club in Colchester offers a unique Carrousel experience where tradition meets relaxation. Festivalgoers can savour classic dishes including pierogi, cabbage rolls, and sausage while enjoying Polish beer, live entertainment, and breathtaking waterfront views. Lounge on the beach and go for a dip in the lake between bites; this is the only village where a swimming is part of the fun. Need a pierogi fix closer to home? A second Polish village in Windsor also delivers all your favourites.
The Mexican Village – WindsorEats
Though only a part of Carrousel since 2022, the Mexican Village at WindsorEats has quickly become one of the most beloved stops. With live Latin music, authentic eats, and plenty of margaritas too, this lively destination truly captures the spirit of Mexico. Popular dishes include Rico Taco’s signature birria tacos; loaded with cheese and slow-cooked beef. Be sure to try the Mexican Street Corn; corn on the cob smothered in mayonnaise, queso fresco, and Tajin seasoning. Can’t get enough? Be sure to explore the other Mexican Village in Leamington.
The Caribbean Village – Windsor West Indian Association
A mainstay of the Carrousel of Nations for decades, the Caribbean Village is bursting with flavour, rhythm, and island hospitality. This village is known for its great vibes and offers an authentic taste of the Caribbean that keeps visitors coming back year after year. The menu is a drool-worthy celebration of the region’s culinary heritage and includes items like smoky, spicy jerk chicken and tender curry goat, as well as fried plantain, roti, and rum ‘n’ raisin cookies.
The Dutch Village – Grove Brewing Co.
A newcomer to the Carrousel circuit, the Dutch Village made a bold entrance in 2024. Inspired by their chief brew master’s Dutch heritage, The Grove Brewing Company wowed festivalgoers with a full lineup of Dutch-inspired beer and traditional fare like snert, bitterballen, and Stroopwafel ice cream. They even turned their grain silo into a massive windmill. This year is shaping up to be even more exciting, so be sure to stop in for live entertainment, Dutch games, and Kapsalon, a popular street food dish consisting of fries topped with Gouda cheese, gyro meat, iceburg lettuce, pickled onion and garlic fritessaus.
