Windsor hosts first official Detroit Lions event outside U.S.

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Ford Field is coming to Windsor.  

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The Detroit Lions will host their first-ever NFL-sanctioned event outside of the U.S. this month with a tailgate in Windsor. 

“Windsor, specifically, since the team’s inception has been an incredibly loyal fan base to us,” said Samantha Barney, senior director of marketing for the Lions.

“So, we’re really excited to activate there, to bring Ford Field across the border and bring the game day atmosphere over to the fans in Windsor who can’t traditionally make it across to the game.” 

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The Lions are making the move into Ontario after receiving marketing rights last spring for Canada through the NFL’s Global Markets Program. 

Launched in 2022, the program awards NFL clubs international marketing rights to build brand awareness beyond the U.S., through fan engagement, events and commercial opportunities. 

The Detroit Lions will host their first Canadian event in Windsor on Dec. 15. Lions personnel will take over the Factory House at 5240 Tecumseh Rd. E. for a free tailgate party when the Lions take on the Buffalo Bills. 

“We basically wanted to put together the ultimate Detroit Lions tailgate party and bring it to Windsor,” Barney told the Star.  

A tented outdoor space in the parking lot will boast heaters, bars, barbecue, and large screens, along with a DJ and some giveaways. Fans can also watch the game inside the restaurant. 

Factory House owner Vito Maggio said fans can expect something like the well-known St. Patrick’s Day parties at one of his other bars. But bigger. And with football.

He said people have been calling about the party from as far away as Toronto. They’re expecting between 1,000 and 1,500 fans throughout the day. 

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It doesn’t hurt that the Lions are currently on top of the league this season, with an 11-1 record after their Thanksgiving Day defeat of the Chicago Bears. 

“It’ll be the same thing they do over in Detroit,” said Maggio. “You’re going to feel like you’re right there. Food, drinking, a great party. I’ll tell you one thing. When I’m done with it, you’ll never forget about it. It’s going to be big.” 

Tailgating begins at 12 p.m. Kickoff is at 4:25 p.m. Admission is free. Tickets are not required. 

The second Canadian event will happen in London on Dec. 22, when the Lions bring “the Ford Field experience” to Canada Life Place. 

“In the past we’ve had watch parties at Ford Field,” said Barney. “We basically wanted to replicate that watch party experience in the London market.” 

There will be a ticketed Watch Party, featuring Detroit Lions cheerleaders, mascot Roary, and the Honolulu Boom drum line, for the game against the Chicago Bears. 

London’s game day party starts at 11 a.m. with a tailgate takeover on Dundas Street with music, food trucks and games. There will be a pop-up Lions supply shop onsite for fans to outfit themselves with the proper gear. Canada Life Place gates open at 12 p.m., followed by kickoff at 1 p.m.  

All fans who attend will receive a custom rally towel. Those who arrive early will also take home a custom Detroit Lions tuque.  

Tickets to the London event are $10 for the general public or $5 for Detroit Lions Loyal Members. They are on sale now.

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