Spring is right around the corner and that means it is time to start thinking about your upcoming landscaping projects. No matter if you simply want to make a few improvements to your home’s landscaping or you want to make major changes, you should always visit a local nursery. There are many benefits to choosing a local nursery rather than a big box store that sells plants. A few reasons include: 

• At a nursery, plants are given expert care. Professionals tend the plants so you are given high-quality flowers, trees, and shrubs. 
• Nurseries typically offer healthier plants. This means your plants will have an easier time adjusting after being planted and you will have more beautiful, vibrant landscaping. 
• Available plants at nurseries are typically those that grow best in the area. You are less likely to purchase a plant that will not grow in your specific climate. 
• You have experts available to answer your questions and address all of your concerns. 
• You do not have to worry about unknown or foreign pests entering your yard. At a big box store, you never know where your plants come from and the type of insects you are bringing into your yard. 

Collingwood is home to a variety of nurseries that offer everything from gorgeous flowers and shrubs to large trees, seeds, and gardening supplies. Here are a few local nurseries you may wish to visit to help you create a gorgeous, eye-catch landscape this spring.

Not So Hollow Farm 

Not So Hollow Farm is a large farm where you can find gorgeous trees, shrubs, and perennial plants. You can also browse their wide plant catalog, helping you find exactly what you want before you head to the farm. Not So Hollow Farm opens Saturday, May 2 and is open by appointment only Monday through Wednesday and Thursday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. On Saturdays, Not So Hollow Farm is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Bloom’n Nursery

If you are looking for trees to brighten up your landscaping, you will want to stop by Bloom’n Nursery. This location offers a wide selection of trees ranging from white spruce to various maple trees. In addition, this nursery offers many of the supplies you need for your trees to thrive. 

Bloom’n Nursery is located on the southeast corner of Highway 124 and Poplar Side Road in Collingwood. It is open weekends from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Greenmarc Gardens

If you are looking for specific landscaping products to brighten up your yard this spring, Greenmarc Gardens should be your first stop. This location offers a number of items including mulch, soil, and large rocks to add some dimension and beauty to your landscaping. You will not find as many plants as you will at other local nurseries but you will find all the extras that you need to spruce up your yard. 

Greenmarc Gardens is open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

While the weather is still cold and there is snow on the ground, now is the perfect time to spend time indoors completing various home improvement tasks. One task that may be overdue is updating your home’s design and implementing new interior design trends throughout your living area. There are many popular interior design trends in 2020 for your Collingwood home so you have plenty of options to choose from. 

Here are just a handful of trends to consider for your Collingwood property. 

Eco-Friendly Designs

One trend that is making a name for itself in 2020 is an eco-friendly design. Adding sustainable materials and energy-efficient appliances to living spaces is not only trendy and stylish, but it will lower your monthly utility bills and help to save the planet. Even adding much greenery throughout your home is going to offer many benefits including bringing contrast and colour to your indoor space and it can help improve your home’s air quality as well. 

The Countryside Look

The Farmhouse trend was popular for several years but it is quickly making its way out. The Countryside look is the British take on this popular trend and includes some similarities. The countryside look includes a combination of antiques and many different patterns. You should also include plenty of greenery with this style as well. 

Lots of Patterns

If you want to instantly spruce up a certain area of your home, consider adding some patterns. The right pattern can make a room look larger, add much texture, create a focal point, and add some dimension to a space. Plus, patterns are not just for fabrics anymore. Consider adding patterned wallpaper to an accent wall in your home, find a bright and colourful area rug, or even add some patterns and designs to a piece of furniture. Just make sure that you choose your patterns wisely. Some patterns such as chevron and certain animal prints are out of style. 

Colourful Doors

Do you have boring wood doors throughout your home? If you want a quick project that will increase your home’s value and get in on the latest trends, add some colour! Colourful doors, particularly when the colours are dark and bold, are trendy and popular. They also can greatly increase your home’s value. In fact, research shows that black front doors can increase your home’s value by up to $6,000. 

Plus, you don’t have to focus just on the front door either. Paint an interior door a bold, rich colour to help it stand out in a room. If the door is placed on an accent wall, this is a great way to make a statement. 

How environmentally-friendly is your Collingwood home? There are many benefits to having an eco-friendly house. It will not only save you money on your monthly energy bills—it will also help save the planet! Plus, by implementing environmentally-friendly practices in your home, you are helping your entire family develop excellent habits as well. 

How can you make your home more eco-friendly? It doesn’t require extensive projects or major upgrades. In fact, there are several practices you can implement in an afternoon. 

Here are just a few ways to make your Collingwood house more eco-friendly. 

Have Houseplants

Houseplants are a terrific way to spruce up your indoor space. They add rich greenery and colour. Plus, houseplants offer many health benefits including an increase in energy levels and they can boost your creativity and productivity. These plants also clean the air, remove toxins, and help your entire family breathe a little easier. 

Use LED Light Bulbs

What type of lightbulb do you use throughout your home? LED light bulbs not only use less energy but they also last longer. They do not get as hot as other types of lightbulbs and still offer ample light. With these lightbulbs, you will not only receive better performance, but a lower electricity bill as well. 

Be Smart About Your Water Usage

You may be surprised at how much water your family is consuming each day. This amount can go up significantly during the spring and summer months when you are frequently watering your yard. Make it a goal to cut back on water usage. For example, encourage your family to take shorter showers. You may consider changing some of your landscaping so there is less for you to water. You should also strive to only run the washing machine or dishwasher when your loads are full. 

Install Solar Panels

If you have the budget and truly want to make a difference, consider installing solar panels on your home. There are many benefits to these products and they can drastically cut down on your energy usage each month. However, be mindful that you will have significant upfront costs to install the panels. 

Use the Right Cleaners

What type of cleaner are you using around your home? Natural cleaners are ideal if you want a more eco-friendly home. These cleaners only use natural ingredients so they will not harm the environment. They also can improve your health by protecting your circulatory system and will not hurt your skin if it comes in contact with it. Plus, these cleaners are often less expensive or similar in price to other types of cleaners. 

There are many things you can do to make your Collingwood home more environmentally-friendly. Use the above tips to get started.

A birthday is an exciting time of year. No matter if you are young, a teenager, or even entering your elderly years, a birthday is a special time and should be celebrated. Collingwood is home to several of the best birthday party venues around. Many of these venues cater to younger individuals but some are ideal no matter your age. 

Kidding Around Indoor Playground & Parties

Kidding Around is the perfect birthday venue for children. This establishment offers several birthday party packages so you can find something that fits your budget and party size.  All parties provide 90 minutes in the party room, unlimited play on the playgrounds, and invitations. As you go up in packages, your party can get larger and more exciting with pizza, return passes, a cake or cupcakes, and much more. You can also add on many extras including gluten-free pizzas, candy buffet, balloons, and more. 

There is a $50.00 non-refundable deposit required for all parties and you must have at least one adult for every five children attending the party. 

Crock a Doodle

Let kids laugh, have fun, and be creative with a birthday party at Crock a Doodle. Kids of all ages will love to have a party where they can get their creative juices flowing and paint their own pottery. During these parties, you will have access to the private party room for one hour. All pricing includes the pottery, paint, and instructions. There are also a variety of options available so your child can create something they actually want to use. There must be a minimum of eight children to hold your party at this venue.

Georgian Bowl

Children, teenagers, and adults will love to spend their birthday at Georgian Bowl. This Collingwood bowling alley offers many birthday party packages, helping you create the perfect event. At Georgian Bowl, you will pay per child and all packages include bowling for a certain length of time and food. All guests will also receive favor bags filled with candy, a coupon, a small toy, and additional items. All parties will last approximately 90 minutes to two hours. 

Collingwood Leisure Time Club

If you are looking to rent a large space for a family member’s birthday, the Collingwood Leisure Time Club should be on that list. This facility offers rooms that are large enough for 20 people to 200 individuals. You are welcome to bring in your own food or a caterer, and several rooms offer kitchen access. Most rooms include tables and chairs and plenty of parking is available for all of your guests. Liquor and bar services are also available by the Leisure Time staff in some of the larger rooms.

Houseplants are a wonderful addition to any Collingwood home. They are not only appealing and trendy, but they offer many health benefits. Research shows that houseplants can remove up to 87% of air toxins in a room. These plants can also improve concentration, productivity, energy levels, and mood. Unfortunately, many homeowners miss out on these benefits due to the fear of caring for the plants. 

Luckily, there are several houseplants that are easy to care for, prefer the shade, and will add pops of colour to your home. No matter if you are an expert gardener or you lack a green thumb, here are a few houseplants you should consider for your Collingwood house. 

The Snake Plant

The Snake Plant is a popular houseplant and for good reason. It features thick, green leaves that add rich greenery and significant contrast to any room. It is also extremely forgiving. This plant can last at least a month without any attention or water. 

Bromeliads

There are countless Bromeliad options available, allowing you to find the perfect houseplant with lots of colour. This type of plant usually offers bright, colourful flowers that will become an instant focal point in a room. Keep in mind that Bromeliads like bright sunlight so you will want to place them in an area where they get a lot of natural sun. 

Chinese Money Plant

The Chinese Money Plant is an excellent addition to any home. This plant does not like direct sunlight and thrives in shady areas. It is not a large plant so it works well on the end of a table or to sit on a shelf. Plus, you can replant the off-shoots off of this plant and enjoy even more greenery throughout your home or even give them as a gift. 

Pothos

Pothos are another very tolerant and forgiving plant. These plants like bright light but do not enjoy direct sunlight. They also like to dry out completely between each watering so you don’t have to worry as much if you miss a day or two of watering. 

Rubber Plant

If you are looking for a larger houseplant, the Rubber Plant should be at the top of your list. This plant can grow extremely tall. However, if you want it to sprout up, you will need to keep adjusting its pot size to ensure it has ample room to grow. The Rubber Plant likes very little moisture. Many experts recommend you only water this plant one to two times a month. However, you may need to mist the leaves and wipe them free from dust often. This plant also does best in bright rooms but make sure you do not place them in direct sunlight.

 If you want a nice, cold drink and some delicious food, you need to head to one of the best grills. Collingwood is home to many of these establishments so finding the best one can be a challenge. Here are a few of the top establishments that you definitely want to check out.

St. Louis Bar and Grill 

St. Louis Bar and Grill is an establishment you can enjoy in various locations around Canada and the United States. One benefit of this location is there is something for everyone. The menu ranges from wings and ribs to tacos and salads. There is also a special kids’ menu if you want to bring your entire family along. Plus, if you want to save a little money, you can take advantage of one of their daily deals. St. Louis Bar and Grill offers deals on both food and drinks each day of the week. 

St. Louis Bar and Grill is open Sunday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m.

Potato Factory & Taps

The Potato Factory and Taps is the perfect stop if you want great food and a fun environment. This establishment features a large dining room with options for both lunch and dinners. During special events, you can enjoy your meal and a cold drink while listening to live music. Potato Factory and Taps is also a great space for special events such as work parties, weddings, large group luncheons, and dinners.  

Potato Factory & Taps is located at 61 Hurontario Street and is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. and on Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Lakeside Seafood and Grill

If you are looking for a menu with a lot of variety, consider Lakeside Seafood and Grill. This establishment offers extensive menus for every meal of the day including a specialized kids’ menu. You can choose between things like a large burger, delicious panini, and fish and chips. Vegetarian and Gluten-free options are also available. 

Pair your meal with a delicious wine or choose from one of the many cocktails available. To ensure you have a seat at this restaurant, reservations are recommended.

The Lakeside Seafood and Grill is open Monday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. 

 The Dornoch Tap & Grill

The Dornoch Tap & Grill is located just on the outside of Collingwood in Nottawa. This establishment not only specializes in local beers but they have an extensive menu filled with numerous appetizers, salads, and main dishes. There is also something for every taste bud as you can get a delicious burger, pasta, or even a taco. The restaurant is also filled with large HD TV screens so you can always watch your favourite sporting event. 

The Dornoch Tap & Grill is located at 4203 County Road #124 in Nottawa. It is open at 11 a.m. Tuesday through Sunday and is closed on Monday.

Even though the weather is still cold and more snow is on its way, it doesn’t mean you can’t prepare for the spring months. There are several tasks you can complete around your Collingwood home that will help you get ready. Plus, by starting now,  when the warmer weather does arrive, you can spend your time outdoors, rather than be cooped up inside completing various home improvement tasks. 

1. Declutter

Begin decluttering your home now. Decluttering is a popular task on a spring cleaning checklist. However, by starting now, you can get this project crossed off before your official spring cleaning begins. Start by focusing on one room at a time. You may spend an entire week working in this one room. Focus on certain areas such as closets, drawers, cupboards, etc. Once you have completed this area, move to the next. By the time spring arrives, you will feel organized and free from unwanted clutter. 

2. Sharpen Your Garden Tools

Are your garden tools ready to create the ultimate outdoor space? Once the warm weather arrives, you don’t want to waste time getting your tools ready. You can begin now by evaluating your tools. Do some worn-out items need replacing? Do some tools need to be sharpened? Are there certain tools you are missing? By getting your gardening tools ready today, you will be ready to begin working in your garden right away. 

3. Replace All Filters

When was the last time you replaced your air filter? What about your water filter? These are tasks that take very little time but are often forgotten or overlooked. Depending on the type of filter you have, these often need to be replaced monthly, every quarter, or even every six months. 

4. Complete Indoor Home Improvement Project

Is there an indoor home improvement project that has been on your to-do list for some time? For example, do you want to add a fresh coat of paint to a certain room in your home? Do you want to update certain light fixtures around your house? These last few months of winter are a great time to get to work. You can focus on the projects you want to complete indoors and once the weather warms up, you can move outdoors. Make a list of all the projects you want to complete this year and make it a goal to complete at least one before spring officially arrives.

With the freezing temperatures and the snowy days, your children may be cooped up inside. No matter their age, they may become restless and need to explore a new environment, learn something, and let out some energy. Collingwood is home to several activities for children of all ages to keep them learning, exploring, and having fun. Here are a few Collingwood activities to keep your kids busy this winter. 

Collingwood Museum

Collingwood Museum is a great way to spend your day. The museum will teach your entire family about the history of the city. It is built inside Collingwood’s 1873 train station and has something for curious minds of all ages. Your children may love to see the sawtooth shark bill or the twisted piece of metal from the Halifax Explosion. Special educational programs are also available during March Break for young children. 

Ice Skating 

This winter, your children can perfect their ice skating techniques while also getting a little exercise. Public skating is available at Central Park Arena on Saturdays from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Sundays from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. If you have a young child under the age of six, you can enjoy parent and tot skating for free at the arena. Parent and Tot Skating takes place Mondays and Thursdays from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Kidding Around Playground

Let your kids laugh, run, and play at Kidding Around Playground. This 5,000-foot indoor playground is a large facility for children under the age of 10. The playground features four different levels, each with many features ranging from cargo nets, tunnels, and interactive games. There is also a dedicated area for young toddlers, which allows them to have a blast without being overwhelmed by older children. 

To give your children a full day of excitement, Kidding Around Playground also features day camps. There are daily and weekly camps available.

 Blue Mountain Resort

The Blue Mountain Resort features several kids’ programs to get young ones outdoors. While at the resort, children can participate in ski or snowboarding lessons to help them master their skills on the slopes. Lesson times and registration is available on the Blue Mountain Resort website. 

If they don’t want to spend their entire day in the snow, they can head indoors and into the pool. Plunge! Aquatic Center offers indoor and outdoor pools to keep you kids splashing and having a good time, even while the snow is falling outdoors.

With the cold weather and snowy days, it can be hard to spend time outside. Luckily, Collingwood is near both the Blue Mountain Resort and Highlands Nordic, allowing you to get out, get active, and have some fun. However, to truly enjoy what these ski hills have to offer, you need the right equipment. If you don’t want to purchase the equipment on your own, several local shops offer rentals. Here are several of them in the Collingwood area.

Blue Mountain Resort

If you are heading to the Blue Mountains, you can save yourself a little time by simply renting all the equipment you need on the hill. If you want to hit the slopes quickly, you can place your order online up to five days in advance and all of your equipment will be ready when you arrive. For beginners, you can save a little money as well and choose a lesson and equipment rental bundle.  

Banff Sport Collingwood

Located at 279 Mountain Road in Collingwood is Banff Sport Collingwood. This sports equipment rental shop has all you need to enjoy the hills no matter if you are skiing or snowboarding. You can choose from both ski or snowboarding packages, as well as kids’ ski packages. Additionally, if you own your equipment and it could use a little tune-up before you hit the slopes or after a long day on the hills, Banff Sport Collingwood offers these services as well. 

Kamikaze Bikes

If you love to get out and explore on your bike, you don’t have to let the winter keep you indoors. Head around town or out in the mountains on a fat bike. The large tires make it easy and enjoyable to travel across snow and rough terrain. Plus, at Kamikaze Bikes, you can rent a fat bike like a Trek Farley for just $50 a day. 

Alpine Sports

No matter what you want to do outdoors, Alpine Sports has what you need. This shop has everything from snowboards and skis to snowshoes and various winter clothing. For example, you can rent snow pants, jackets, gloves, and goggles for your daily adventure. You can easily outfit every member of your family at this shop as they have items from kids to adults. In addition, you can rent items by the day or there are multi-day packages available as well.  

You don’t have to settle for the same restaurant each time that you take your entire family out to dinner. Collingwood boasts a plethora of family-friendly restaurants with a great atmosphere and family-friendly menus. Here are just a few of the best family-friendly restaurants in Collingwood.

Pie Wood Fired Pizza Joint

If you are craving pizza that will make your taste buds water, Pie Wood Fired Pizza Joint is the place to be. This restaurant’s menu is large and extensive and offers everything from building your own pizza to a slow and low pie with BBQ sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pulled pork. They also offer many kinds of pasta, salads, and sandwiches. 

Pie Wood Fired Pizza Joint is located at 499 First Street in Collingwood and it is open Monday through Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Fish and Sips

Fish and Sips is a fun and unique restaurant that serves authentic English fish and chips. However, if fish isn’t the favourite of every member of your family, there are also several additional options including chicken fingers, a hamburger, and a chicken sandwich. You can also enjoy a variety of sides including just one to two pieces of fish, mushy peas, poutine, and coleslaw. Fish and Sips also boasts a relaxing and fun atmosphere that your entire family is sure to love. 

Fish and Sips is located at 206 Hurontario Street and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The Smoke

If your family is in the mood for some barbecue, The Smoke should be at the top of your list. The Smoke offers lunch and dinner menus filled with BBQ favourites. On the dinner menu, for example, you will find a variety of appetizers and sides ranging from BBQ wings to macaroni and cheese. There are several sandwich options to choose from including the Cow Meets Pig Sandwich. This sandwich features 1/3 of a pound of smoked pork and a 1/3 of a pound of beef brisket. 

If you bring young children to The Smoke, there is something for them to love as well. A kids’ menu is available for all children under the age of 12 and individuals over the age of 70. It features many favourites including a grilled cheese sandwich, smoked slider burgers, and macaroni and cheese. 

The Smoke is located at 498 First Street in Collingwood. It is closed every Monday and opens every Tuesday through Sunday at 11:30 a.m. 

Bent Taco

Bent Taco is another local favourite and a place where every member of your family will enjoy. This restaurant also features a separate lunch and dinner menu, with the dinner menu featuring a variety of burritos and tacos. You can also enjoy several bowls filled with meat, rice, and beans as well. For all children 12 and under, a kids’ menu is available. It features items such as a chicken quesadilla, chicken nuggets, and a Casado. 

Bent Taco is located at 48 Pine Street in Collingwood. It opens every day for lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and opens again at 5:00 p.m. for dinner. It is closed Tuesdays.