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Ford Field comes to Windsor.

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

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

“So we’re really excited to get going there, bring Ford Field across the border and bring the game day atmosphere to Windsor fans who usually can’t make it to the game.

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The Lions are moving to Ontario after securing marketing rights last spring for Canada through the NFL’s global markets program.

Launching in 2022, the program grants NFL clubs international marketing rights to build brand awareness beyond the United States through fan engagement, events and commercial opportunities.

The Detroit Lions will host their first Canadian event in Windsor on December 15. Lions staff will occupy the Factory House at 5240 Tecumseh Rd. E. for a free pre-game party when the Lions take on the Buffalo Bills.

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

An outdoor tented area in the car park will feature heaters, bars, a barbecue and large screens, as well as a DJ and giveaways. Fans can also watch the game inside the restaurant.

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

He said people were calling about the party from as far away as Toronto. They expect between 1,000 and 1,500 fans throughout the day.

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It doesn’t hurt that the Lions are currently leading the league this season, sitting at 11-1 following their loss to the Chicago Bears on Thanksgiving.

“It will be the same as Detroit,” Maggio said. “You’re going to feel like you’re there.” Eat, drink, a big party. I’ll tell you one thing. When I’m done, you’ll never forget it. It’s going to be big.

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

The second Canadian event will take place in London on December 22, when the Lions bring the “Ford Field Experience” to Canada Life Place.

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

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

London’s matchday party starts at 11am with a takeover on Dundas Street with music, food trucks and games. There will be a Lions supplies pop-up store on site so fans can equip themselves with the appropriate gear. Doors to Canada Life Place open at 12 p.m., followed by kickoff at 1 p.m.

All fans in attendance will receive a personalized rally towel. Those who arrive early will also win a personalized Detroit Lions toque.

Tickets for the London event are $10 for the general public or $5 for loyal Detroit Lions members. They are on sale now.

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