Author: Collingwood Info

Paul Casey (a Sales Representative) and Christine Smith (a Broker) with Royal LePage Locations North Brokerage based out of Collingwood. We both service areas such as the Blue Mountains, Collingwood, Thornbury, Meaford and Wasaga Beach as well as every wonderful community across the Southern Georgian Bay. If you are looking to buy or sell and not working with an agent -- let us be your guide to real estate across this wonderful area. As professional REALTORS® we both like making the complete process of buying and selling real estate simple as possible.

Collingwood to Honour Indigenous People

by Collingwood InfoUncategorized

Canada has, at its roots, a rich culture of indigenous people and native tribes that have roamed the lands and shaped the landscape in the hundreds of years before.  As time passes however, and as they fall farther and farther back into history, for the newer generations, their influence is less understood, and their impact less appreciated.

Collingwood is working to change that however, seeking to teach the newer generations of Collingwood and surrounding areas about the rich impact these pioneering people had by honouring their contribution, and honouring their role in the history of the country.

In the coming months, the city of Collingwood will be building a gathering circle, marking the first project of the Waterfront Master Plan. The circle will be created to celebrate the indigenous heritage of the region and the country, and the design was unveiled at the council meeting on July 9th.

Speaking to an elder with the Saugeen First Nation and collaborating with Dr. Duke Redbird and town consultant Cal Brook, the plans for the circle have been crafted to have it constructed on top of a berm, two meters above ground, at Harborview Park. The design is formulated to recreate a food forest, with posts designed to look like trees, that have canopies on top.  Each tree has a bench at the bottom with the name of one of the seven grandfathers of teaching on each one. In addition, each canopy honours a different indigenous grandfather and his teachings by having a different pattern on the canopy.

Town council’s Brook says “I’m really proud to be part of this,” explaining how it represents a progressive movement by the City to be able to have this as the first project that is part of the waterfront redevelopment.   He also highlights how important it is to have formal input from the indigenous people into the project and that he is pleased to be able to make the project happen through working with the indigenous partners.

Dr. Redbird is gratified to be a of the project, as a lifelong educator, who has been continually invested in educating young people on the indigenous history and culture of the province, region and country.  He sees the project as a great learning tool for schools, and the location as an ideal place to bring school groups.

The project is scheduled to be completed by September, and the Steelworkers union will be offering a financial contribution via labour support towards the project. With the total project cost coming in at more than $600 000, the contribution totalling over $100 000 was a welcome donation, for which the city will greatly benefit.

Overall, the project and premise behind it is an inspiring endeavour by the city of Collingwood, and one which all its residents – old and young – will be able to benefit from.

 

 

What’s Happening in August?

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood Events / Collingwood things to do

With Canada Day behind us and the summer in full swing, it’s time to make the most of the sunny days and the warm temperatures and head out into the community to take advantage of activities and events.  Here’s what is happening in Collingwood in August for you to come and join:

Music and Movement

August is a great month if you love to dance, sing, and go to concerts.  Check out these musically motivated options:

  • Celebrate female legendary singer-songwriter Carole King at a show called Tapestry in the Blue Mountain Village on August 1st.
  • Symphony in the Barn, August 3rd – 5th, a festival featuring world class performances by the Symphony in the Barn Festival Chamber Orchestra of New York.
  • Mosaic World Music Festival, August 4th-6th at Blue Mountain Village and Town.
  • The Last Waltz, a free live music event offering lots of opportunities to sing and dance on August 15th at the Blue Mountain Village.
  • From August 4th to September 15th, the street pianos will be back in Collingwood, marking the Keys to Collingwood

RibFest

Look out Collingwood because the RibFest is coming! Taking place August 3rd – 6th at Millennium Park, four of North America’s best rib making teams are coming from Florida, Alabama, BC, and other areas of Ontario, to bring you the best ribs in town.  Presented by the Ontario Festival Group, these pitmasters will be taking over the park, not only with ribs, but also in a complete festival great for the whole family: there will be other food, like poutine, cake and corn; cold beer; face painting and a jumping castle for the kids, and a Marketplace with local artisans.  It is all taking place over the long weekend in August, with free parking, and a free concert, so be sure not to miss out!  There will also be a RibFest taking place at Wasaga Beach from August 10th to 12th – just in case you miss the first one or want to come to both!

If you’re all about the RibFest because you are all about the meat, be sure also to take advantage of Charcuterie Tuesdays at Gustav’s Chophouse and Bar, featuring Chef Jeff Anderson’s Charcuterie Board.  This will be happening beginning August 7th.

For the Kids

Let’s not forget about all the fun options for the kids in the last month before they head back to school.  Here’s what you can expect:

  • Fossil Find Sunday is taking place on August 5th from 1-2 pm starting at the Craigleith Heritage Depot. Join fossil experts as you dig for traces of ancient life!
  • Wild Wonders will be coming to Blue Mountain Village on August 11th and 12th. Come enjoy some animal entertainment of free-flying birds of prey, reptile shows, live music, and street performers all with an animal flair!
  • The Indigenous Life Festival presents a chance to teach the kids about the native people of Canada from August 24th to 26th. Free demos, interactive events, and lots more, suitable for the whole family.

Summer is here and it’s time to celebrate, so be sure to get your August calendar ready before the month comes and goes!

 

Collingwood Small Business Growth and Support

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood business / Collingwood Events / Collingwood News

With a close-knit community like Collingwood, supporting each other through business and local initiatives is an important part of the community mindset.  Whether it is to shop at a local store, attend fairs and pop up shops that support new and upcoming talent, or to take the initiative yourself to become an entrepreneur and a small business owner, all of these areas are easier to navigate when you have some added knowledge, expertise, and support behind you.  That’s what the Small Business Enterprise Centre strives to offer.

In the spotlight now for their recent event Summer Company Business Showcase, held on July 4th, the Enterprise Centre worked with eight young entrepreneurs to help them network with the public and showcase their company. The centre works to give entrepreneurs the assistance they need to grow their business and to help them develop business skills that will launch them into success for years to come.  The staff at the centre act as the guiding hand behind the ideas and desires of the young owners to help them reach all their entrepreneurial aspirations.

Upcoming Events

For those who missed participating in or viewing the July 4th event however, you can still be a part and get involved in the small business side of Collingwood, on July 18th. Join fellow community members and Explore Entrepreneurship’s founder, Sandra Kahale for a networking event designed to bring together business owners at every stage of their learning, growth and development.  With growth as the theme for the evening, the event will offer part education, part networking and interacting, and part mentoring, with a chance for experienced business owners to share tips and techniques while new owners ask questions and get help.  Held from 5:30-8:30pm, at Gibson & Co., Midsummer Business Boost is sure to give you a fresh perspective, new inspiration and a great new group of like-minded business owners you can start to call your friends. Tickets are $25 and you should plan to reserve your spot ahead of time.

Other Programs and Resources

The Business Enterprise Centre does not stop at just events though. It also seeks to help those starting out in business by offering a selection of resources such as a starting checklist, business plan layouts, and important information on licensing and registration.  There is information available on what to expect in terms of costs and financing, as well as business insurance and marketing your business.  Finally, don’t forget to take advantage of the opportunity for a free consultation with one of their knowledgeable staff members in asking your initial business questions, and finding out where to begin on your entrepreneurial journey.  While you are at it, be sure to ask them if Starter Company Plus, a business development program, may be the right fit for you.

Whether you are supporting the community or starting your own business, the Business Enterprise Centre has something for you if you are looking to develop your role as an entrepreneur or small business owner. Book in for July 18th and then make use of their additional resources to get you started on your path to success.

Summer Education for Kids

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood Events / Collingwood News / Collingwood things to do

Just because the kids are out of school, it doesn’t mean they should stop learning! Indeed, the summer is a great time to help your kids take advantage of learning and educational opportunities outside the classroom, and Collingwood is the ideal place to do it. This summer, here’s how you can help keep the minds of your kids sharp – and give them something to do!

Library Days

What’s better than being able to spend the entire day in the library, surrounded by books, educational resources and the chance to learn. The Collingwood library is focused on encouraging kids to continue to read over the summer, and has just announced the TD Summer Reading Club. By signing up to take part, participants complete BINGO challenges based on what they read and how much they read, and the winners receive free books for every card they complete. In addition, the library will be offering story time, complete with added learning opportunities relevant to the books, and tends have their own programs and events to continue learning themselves: smoothie making workshop, summer gardening club, and teen summer reading challenge.

Active Education

With the recent news that Collingwood residents are lacking in meeting their daily activity requirements, some active education may be the best way for them to spend some of their summer.  Active Life Conditioning is offering summer day camps to not only allow your kids to be active, but also to educate them on various selections of athletic performance.  The August session still has space for the 2004-2008 age group, where they will be able to improve their skills in hand eye coordination, teamwork, leadership abilities and learning more about the rules and regulations of various sports.

Wild for Wilderness

If your kids are more into outdoor education, summer presents the perfect weather to go on a wilderness adventure.  Highlands Nordic caters to the wild side of your child, offering outdoor adventure camps for kids from kindergarten up to grade eight. Each week has a specific theme and will focus on educating participants based on certain topics relevant to the week’s theme.  Send them to camp for one week, or every week!

All About the Arts

Arts, drama, and musical education certainly have a place on the calendar over the summer, and if your child is keen to do more than just draw and paint at home, the Sand Castle Theatre is the place to be. The theatre will offer art and drama camps for children age 7-13. The day will start with drama activities and practicing a play, while the afternoon will be filled with art, creativity, and imagination: painting, costume designing, set creation, and individual art projects. Whatever your child prefers, there is an art creation waiting!

Don’t let the learning stop just because school has stopped. Take advantage of summer activities to educate your child, and they’ll have a lot of fun at the same time.

3 Reasons to Visit the Bay This Summer

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood things to do

If you live in Collingwood or throughout other areas of Ontario, chances are you have seen your fair share of winter weather, snowy days, and cold, bitter nights.  When the sun comes out to play, and it’s good bye winter, it’s time to make the most of the summer days and soak up all the warmth you can.  And the best place to do this on the Bay! Whether you live right next door, or have to go for a drive, there are plenty of reasons why the Georgian Bay is the place to be this summer.

1.    Good Food and Drink

Any good day in the sun starts and ends with good food and good drinks.  You can pack yourself a picnic and enjoy it on the Georgian Bay trails as you take in the view from foot, or you can set up for the day on one of the 50 beaches and enjoy a classic blanket-spread-out-in-the-sand-afternoon, complete with your favourite snacks and drinks.  The real treat comes after a long day spent touring around Collingwood – walking along the beach, and taking in the great Bay views – when you settle into one of the dozens of patio options available along the waterfront.  A trip to the bay wouldn’t be complete without taking advantage of the incredible seafood and you can visit one of several local restaurants to sit outside, enjoy good food, good drinks, and good views.

2.    Exciting Events

There are several events happening in Collingwood and surrounding areas all summer long, many right along the Bay. There will be regular yoga sessions at the beach, where you can enjoy the view, while also improving your health. The Peak to Shore  music festival takes place July 4th to 8th, bringing in Canadian talent for a true, summertime experience.  If you want more of the arts scene, the South Georgian Bay Film Festival Gala overlaps, taking place July 7th – 14th, with viewing of films, and then the option to vote for your favourites.  And Wasaga Beach is the place to be to experience the lights and excitement of the Wasaga Midway, running from July 6th to 15th, while Jazz in the Park at Wasaga Beach will complete your night on July 10th.

3.    Active Opportunities

Summer is the best time to be outside, take in the fresh air, and be active! Not only can you visit any of the beaches, go for a walk or get brave and dive in for a swim, but Beaver River offers options for kayaking and canoeing, and many of the parks and beaches have trails for hiking and cycling. If you are looking for more of a team driven competitive way to get active, the Discs & Dunes Ultimate Frisbee Beach Tournament will take place on July 7th and 8th, with competitors from all around the province seeking to be crowned the Ultimate winner!

Don’t let summer pass you by without visiting the Bay and taking in the amazing food, events, and scenery.  Before you know it, Old Man Winter will come back knocking, so let’s get outside!

Collingwood for Canada Day

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood Events

It’s getting to that time of year again: Canada Day! The time of year where we get to celebrate the beauty of our nation, the people that started it and have supported it, and the amazing landscape and natural splendour all around us in this place that we get to call home.  This year, if you are ready to celebrate the country in a big way, Collingwood is the place to make it happen:

Visit Blue Mountain Resort

With live music running all weekend, including headline band Carpet Frogs, Blue Mountain Resort is pulling out all the stops to make Canada Day an amazing weekend and a family affair.  The family activities, including fireworks and Subaru’s Movies Under the Stars will be taking place from June 30th until July 2nd, and of course will be complete with a ceremonial Canada Flag Cake. Be sure to show up at the events early, because you’re guaranteed to be amongst a crowd!

Head Downtown

The city of Collingwood says it best: “Any weekend in Collingwood is a great weekend, but when it’s the Canada Day long weekend, it’s extra special!” Downtown Collingwood will be sponsoring dozens of free family events, starting with the Canada Day Pancake Breakfast at 8:00 am at the town hall.  From there, every citizen is invited to attend the Citizenship Reaffirmation Ceremony at noon with the town crier, where you will receive a citizenship certificate afterwards before celebrating with free cake! Of course, no Canada Day is complete without fireworks at the end, starting at 10 pm over the harbour.  As the day gets closer, be sure to pay attention to the schedule to learn about more free concerts, free kids’ activities, and special business sales and events!

Start on the Eve

Before the main weekend events kick off however, you can start celebrating with the Canada Eve Party. Taking place at the Beaver Valley Community Centre, the outside event starts at 4pm.  With a Black Angus and Fine Meats BBQ, tacos, beer, and lemonade, in addition to live music and interactive children’s activities like face painting and Chapman’s Ice Cream, the event is meant as a family affair.  Hosted by the Blue Mountains Public Library, the Town of the Blue Mountains and Thornbury-Clarksburg Rotary, not only is there a big event to celebrate, but there is something for everyone to help celebrate it.  The event is free with music presented by Graham Playford, and the Craigleith Heritage Depot will be present showing Reel History films to educate attendees on the rich history of our amazing country.

With summer in full swing, the days warming up and sun out shining, you know that Canada Day is just around the corner. Gather the family, find your red and white outfit, and start making your plans for the whole weekend!

Business in Collingwood

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood business / Collingwood News

With a small town feel and a community that regularly comes together in support of one another, there is much to be celebrated when it comes to looking at the businesses that form the financial and economic framework of the city.  On the heels of the Collingwood Chamber of Commerce Business awards, it’s time for us to take a few minutes to highlight the amazing accomplishments and mentality of the business people of Collingwood.

Celebrating Business Success

On Thursday, May 31st, the Collingwood Chamber of Commerce handed out the business excellence awards. Handing out 10 awards, the ceremony and the awards it offered were a way to honour the hard work of small business owners in the community as well as to bring together members of Collingwood, welcoming everyone to a sold-out event at Bear Estates.   Ranging from Small Business Owner of the Year to innovation, to awards in several industries, such as service, accommodation and restaurant, the event acted not only as a way to honour owners, but also as a way to increase business exposure and show what they can offer to the greater Collingwood community.

Highlighting Locals

While the awards seek to bring attention to exemplary businesses and people in the community, the goodness of our city means this is happening all over the place, without any awards necessary. Take for example, Simcoe Street Books, a boutique book store, owned by local residents that is seeking to bring Collingwood together and support the community. Making use of the vintage theatre to hold special events, the store also offers a publishing service, where they seek to “give a voice to people locally who may not have a chance otherwise.” Events typically focus on highlighting local talent, and on June 10th, Sarah Selecky and Genevieve Scott, two Canadian authors, will be speaking in the space.

Praising Forward Thinking

There’s more than just books at the heart of innovative, progressive development in Collingwood businesses. Collingwood resident, Christina Strong, is not just trying to boost local business, but to make local businesses accessible.  In a wheelchair, Strong works as a public awareness co-ordinator to Independent Living Services in Simcoe County and Area to encourage employers to train staff to be sensitive to those with physical or mental obstacles and to offer assistance. She advocates for improved signage, improved physical access, and simply asking to be heard and not ignored. She promotes these messages through her workshop “My Business Welcomes Everyone,” which was recently held during National Accessibility Awareness Week.

Whether you are looking to learn more about Collingwood business, to celebrate the achievements of current business owners, or to join in on advocating for better access to businesses, there is much to applaud when it comes to successful business in our city. Do your part and support small businesses in the area, and don’t be afraid to talk to your local business owner.  They are after all, a Collingwood resident as well!

Where to Stay in Collingwood This Summer

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood Events / Collingwood things to do

If you are planning a summer holiday in Collingwood this year, you are in for a real treat. From the incredible array of outdoor patios, to the calendar of exciting events and activities, to simply being by the Bay or in the mountains, there is no shortage of reasons to make Collingwood your summer destination.  And when you do, you’ll need a place to stay. Here’s what we recommend:

Hotel Style

When you’re visiting a new area, you can’t go wrong with classic hotel accommodations.  Complete with all the amenities, excellent locations to make it easy to walk into town, and of course, exceptional guest services that are reflective of the exceptional service of the city itself, your vacation is sure to be a complete success from the moment you set down your bags.  Check out this list of hotel options which may be just the perfect fit for your needs.

Cottage Style

With views of the Georgian Bay and the Blue Mountains, not to mention incredible skies at night for gazing, Collingwood is the perfect place to rent a cottage and experience an authentic rustic-style accommodation. Many of these types of accommodation options are in the Blue Mountain area, acting as ski huts in the winter and then allowing you perfect mountain views when you stay in the summer.  Set a budget for your stay and then start searching!

Family Style

Collingwood is a great place to choose for a family vacation. Many of the community locations are kid friendly, there are lots of opportunities for the kids to be outside, soaking up the sun and running around. Of course, we have a whole kid-friendly line up of community events and festivals. But that is only as fun as a good night’s sleep the night before! Having well rested kids is critical to make the most of your Collingwood time, and we have just the answer. Start with the Blue Mountain Inn, offering mountain views and lots of room, or go more hotel style with the Days Inn.

Couples Style

If you are choosing Collingwood as your destination for a couples’ getaway weekend, you will no doubt want to put some thought into the accommodation to make sure it matches all of the other special weekend plans the two of you have together.  You could start with considering this bed and breakfast option, which not only gives you food as well, but is small and intimate, free from noise and lots of crowds.  Alternatively, take it a little more rustic with this eco-friendly B&B which boasts organic food and plenty of nature!

Whatever your Collingwood summer plans are, there is an accommodation style to match your needs.  Just be sure to start looking now and book soon, as Collingwood is a popular destination in the warmer months and you won’t want to miss out!

What’s Happening in June?

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood Events

It’s hard to believe that June is almost here and the summer months are just around the corner.  But with the promise of warmer weather, delicious produce, and lots of sunshine, we sure aren’t complaining.  And you won’t be either! Because once Victoria Day passes, there’s a great line up for the month of June that you won’t want to miss, and there are lots of events and activities for the whole family to take advantage of.  Read on to learn more!

Eat Up

Spring and summer are the best time of the year to take advantage of the amazing Ontario growing season.  From berries to basil, greens to garlic, there is not much that isn’t grown in amazing Georgian Bay Area, and that is why, Collingwood offers the triple market scene, every weekend!  Saturdays present the Creemore Farmers Market and Downtown Collingwood Farmer’s Market, while Sunday brings the Thornbury Market.  Choose one, or come to all three and experience the amazing produce of the region, support local farmers and local produce, and of course, enjoy delicious coffee, sweets, and breakfast delights as you walk around the venues.

Drink Up

This one may be more for just mom and dad, or as a nice couple’s date. From June 7th to June 17th, the Georgian Bay area will be home to the Apple Pie Trail Ciderfest. Take advantage of the cider scene in Ontario as you pick up your passport and tour cideries, explore cider pairings, and take in special events, menus, and brews across Duntroon, Collingwood, Blue Mountain, Meaford, and more.  The name of the game is to make it to all eleven cideries on your passport, to get your stamp.  Complete with accommodation and transport options, this fun event is not to be missed as you support the Ontario apple industry, try out new ciders, and have a little bit of fun!

Get up

And go, that is! As fast as you can, because the competition season is heating up. With the warmer weather here, it’s time to put away the skis and get out the bikes as Blue Mountain transforms into an amazing mountain biking destination.  You can head there to try out the trails on your own time, or take part in a competition and test your speed, agility, and prowess against the best of the best.  The competition season kicks off on June 9th with Blue Cup, featuring race options for kids and adults alike. June 14th to 16th, the men’s Blue Mountain Gran Fondo takes place, where you can see the men head out on this annual road riding competition held over three days.

Stay tuned for the Canada Day edition of what’s happening to be published next month, guiding you from the last day of June into the famous Canada Day weekend.  Collingwood and surrounding areas will have lots of events, activities, and exciting community experiences all weekend long, so be sure to keep the calendar clear for what’s to come!

Collingwood for Kids

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood Events / Collingwood things to do

With the weather starting to warm up and the kids soon ready to be out of school for the summer, you may be starting to wonder, what are they going to do? There’s no need to have them underfoot in the house or sitting in front of the computer! The community of Collingwood offers lots of kid-friendly activities and locations and there are a lot of opportunities to keep your child entertained right here in the community.  Read on to find out how you can capitalize on Collingwood for the kids!

Activities to Do

It is the perfect season to get outside and get active, and Collingwood has the ideal line up of activities to help you do this.  Visit the Collingwood museum on a rainy day to learn about the history and culture of the city, and then spend a warm day taking in the Blue Mountains’ Scenic Caves.  Offering opportunities all year long, including winter hikes and Southern Ontario’s longest suspension bridge, a stop here isn’t going to disappoint.  Top this off with a trip to the theatre, an afternoon spent bowling at Georgian Bowl, or simply trying a new weekend event, and you’ll be sure to make memories and support the community at the same time.

Events to Take Part In

Start teaching your kids about the value of supporting their community by attending local events and activities as a family.  There is an extensive array of events offered on most holidays in the city, many of which are kid-friendly. Each weekend sees the community farmer’s market, where you can take the kids to learn about the importance of eating healthy food and supporting local farmers, while the Blue Mountain Foundation for the Arts is incredibly supportive of youth talent and bringing it forth to the people of the area.  Encourage your children to take part in the art show, or simply visit the show to view local talent.

Places to Visit

One of the best things you can do for your child is help them to explore their own community and see everything that it has to offer.  Collingwood is a unique location, offering the beautiful Blue Mountains and the Georgian Bay, with a supportive and progressive city centre in between. Take the kids to the mountains any time of the year, whether you end up skiing, hiking, or just getting to the top to enjoy the view.  Walk along they bay, or stop at a local restaurant to enjoy a snack while you enjoy the fresh air. There is the John Munger trail to get active, and explore Collingwood’s beautiful nature scene, while you can’t forget the city centre complete with its unique shopping experiences and boutique style small businesses.

With so much to do and a community that is so supportive of families, the hardest part will be deciding what to do first.  Use the Calendar of Events to plan your next kid-friendly activity and we can’t wait to see you out in the community with your family.