Tag: collingwood events

Our Favourite August Activities Still Happening This Year

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood things to do

It’s finally time for us to reclaim summer. If you’re like us, you’re looking forward to everything this summer has to offer as live events resume. Whether you’re planning your pool party or going to the beach, you need to experience some of the live activities that are back.  

August is a great month to get out and about with family and friends. We have a special place in our hearts for Collingwood and the surrounding area, and we’re always on the lookout for new things to do. Here’s the collection of our favourite things to do around town in August.

July 30-August 2: Toronto Food Truck Festival

The annual Toronto Food Truck Festival is one of Canada’s best food truck events, and it is back for its 10th year this August. The festival is about more than just food, and so this year’s event will feature live music, a beer garden, and a kids zone. The highlight of the menu, however, is the food trucks, which will be on display at Woodbine Park. Last year’s trucks included such Toronto favourites as The Poutinerie (poutine), El Pollo Loco (Mexican street food), and Hot Indian Curry (Indian street food).

August 1-8: Toronto Blue Jays

The Toronto Blue Jays are in the midst of a surge, with the team playing their best baseball in years. The team is showing signs that they have the confidence to make a serious run for the playoffs — a lot to look forward to in the upcoming weeks. Check them out on various dates this August at the Rogers Centre.

July 17-August 21: Theatre of the Shadows

Here’s a great idea: an outdoor classical theatre festival featuring female playwrights. Better yet, it’s all going to be performed in one of the best locations for outdoor theatre — the Kortright Centre for Conservation in Vaughan. The featured play is called the Unplugging. The showrunners have partnered with Toronto and Region Conservation Authority to present in a responsible outdoor and in-person setting for smaller audiences. 

The Vegan Market

Every Sunday from 10 am to 2 pm, Collingwood hosts a vegan market at the beautiful shores of Georgian Bay. You can meet and socialize with like-minded people at the market, learn about the local vegan community, and purchase all kinds of vegan products, from vegan baked goods to vegan homemade jam and vegan soaps. The market features vegan food and products from local mainly vendors. The market is a great way to experience the vegan lifestyle as well as support the Collingwood community.

 

Collingwood is a charming community filled with independent shops, restaurants, and businesses. A great place to live if you are looking to live in the downtown area with close proximity to healthcare and public transportation. As open houses resume, this August will be the perfect time to check out properties on the market in the Collingwood area. 

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Things to Check Out in Collingwood This Summer

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood Events

After the Spring, Collingwood is back for summer! The weather is getting warmer, and the days are getting longer. As the days turn longer, you can bet that the vibrant colours of Collingwood will be back to give you a much-needed dose of sunshine. So, what’s on the agenda? 

Summer in Collingwood, Ontario, is a great time to visit the city. You can enjoy the warm weather and the many festivals in town. Some are just plain fun, like the Collingwood Summer Music Festival and the Collingwood Pride, while others are more for the foodies like the Vegan Market or Lobster Fest. It’s essential to have fun during these coming summer months as in-person events return. So, we’ve put together a list of the events and activities happening this July in the area.

Collingwood Summer Music Festival

The Collingwood Summer Music Festival scheduled throughout July features many bands, live music, either online or drive-in style. It is a popular summer festival in Ontario where local and national and international artists and bands, and musicians perform for the festival-goers.

The Vegan Market

Did you know Collingwood has its own vegan market? There are lots of vegan products, such as jewelry and clothing. The market is a great way to support local businesses that promote a healthy lifestyle and save money at the same time. They have a great selection of vegan treats and great gifts for the summer season! The market runs every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., located at the Millenium Overlook Park. 

3 Day Climb Away Retreat

Available year-round, this three-day retreat features climbing, hiking, yoga, and meditation for people of all skill levels. This trip is a perfect place to get away, relax, and connect with the community. If you are looking to master climbing, lose weight, or just want to have a great time away from the pressures of work and home, then this is the place for you.

Collingwood Pride

From July 15-18, Collingwood will be hosting its first-ever virtual pride event. The event will feature an array of speakers celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. Hosting the event is Leslie Roberts from CTV Morning Live. The event is also free to register. 

Lobster Fest

Start your summer off right by joining a lakeside summer kickoff with live music featuring a one-and-a-half pound whole Canadian lobster and more. There will be a live band and a few other surprises. You can check it out on July 15th. Included with the ticket are a three-course dinner and a beer.

Collingwood is a city that has so much to offer in the summer months. From the many festivals and events that fill our town over the summer to the vibrant and relaxed atmosphere surrounding us during this time.

For those who are considering moving to the area this summer, there are many properties available close to the beach or trails for summer fun.

 

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3 Tips For Preventing Spring Flooding

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood things to do

One of the benefits of living in Canada, especially in Collingwood, Ontario, is that you get to experience every season to its fullest. From the hot days of summer spent swimming in Georgian Bay to skiing the powdery slopes of Blue Mountain in the winter, Collingwood has it all.

Living amongst the different seasons can be exciting and give you and your family much to look forward to all year round. However, when winter begins to thaw, and the March and April rains begin to pour, many people who live in older homes are at risk of spring flooding.

Spring flooding is a common occurrence throughout Canada as copious amounts of snow all melt while there is increased rainfall. If you are worried about spring flooding, check out some of the helpful tips below. These are a great way to prepare your home for the spring.

Shovel Snow Away From Your Home Before Warm Weather Hits

If you currently have snow piled up around your home, the first step you should take is removing it from your home’s perimeter. The perimeter is where the water is going to leak inside. Shoveling the snow away from your home is a task you should stay diligent with as you can prevent flooding even mid-winter when there can be frequent freeze and thaws.

Invest In Window Well Covers

A primary source of all basement flooding in the spring is basement window wells. Many homes throughout suburban Collingwood neighborhoods have window wells, but not many people think to keep them covered. If you have basement window wells, you can purchase plexiglass covers so that light can still be let in. During the winter, the snow and rain will be unable to enter, and they can also be easily cleared off.

Get A Home Inspection

A home inspection is an excellent way to get a professional opinion on your property and its risk of spring flooding. While many people get home inspections if they are going to be selling their home, it does not hurt to have someone come and check out your foundation so that you can be sure spring flooding will be prevented. They may suggest some simple maintenance tips, or they may discover something severe that needs to be addressed. With the help of a home inspector, you can keep your home dry this spring.

With the winter almost coming to an end, you may be wondering what you can do to improve your safety against spring flooding. Flooding can cause severe damage to your home, which can be costly to repair. A great way to minimize this risk is by shoveling the snow away from your home, investing in window well covers, and having a home inspection performed on your property.

All of these tactics will be instrumental near the end of winter as you don’t want to be left having to deal with the headache of resolving a basement flood.

 

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Collingwood Wildlife: Try & Spot These 3 Animals

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood things to do

Ontario is home to thousands of animal species, and many of them are still active during the winter months. While you may be more inclined to go out into the wilderness during the summer and check out the different species, heading out into the cold winter air is a great way to have some fun and get out of the house.

If you find the weekends are slipping away and time is going by at a confusing rate, you probably want to spend your days doing something different. Getting outside, getting fresh air, and going hiking is an excellent way to experience some of the wildlife the Collingwood has to offer. Collingwood has it all, from birds to bears, combining both the luxuries of modern living with the wild outdoors.

The Majestic Snowy Owl

Many people are seeing snowy owls throughout southern Ontario, more so than in past years. The snowy owls are best seen during the early morning hours, near abandoned farms in the low-grown brush. If you go driving through the rural countryside of Collingwood during the sunrise, you may catch a glimpse of this majestic bird perching on a fence post. They are easy to spot against the sky, but they will easily blend into the surroundings if you’re looking at a snowy field. Make sure you keep your distance as many photographers venture too close and impede their hunting.

The Iconic Moose

While many people think they need to venture all the way to Algonquin Park to see a moose, there are some right here in your backyard. Moose are often present in bog-like areas and places where there is a frozen wetland, but some have been known to venture into suburban areas. During the winter, moose like to trek through areas where there is substantial snow cover. As moose tend to run hot, they enjoy the cold weather making them extraordinary wildlife for you to go and see. Even if you don’t see them on your first hike, it’s good to keep looking and make sure you always have your camera handy.

The Striking Bald Eagle

Bald eagles are becoming less common in Southern Ontario, with a majority being found near Lake of the Woods. The population in the southernmost parts of Ontario has significantly dwindled in the past years. Thankfully there have been some known to frequent Collingwood, but they are not common sightings. Bald eagles tend to perch high up in dead trees and often flee at the sight of any human activity. If you see a Bald eagle from afar, stay quiet if you want to snap a photo. As it is such a rare bird, it can be a fun challenge to try and spot one on your hikes through the Collingwood and Blue Mountain Area.

While this winter has been burdensome for many families with social gatherings limited and being stuck at home, you can still go out and enjoy the winter weather. If you set some wildlife spotting goals with your family, you can make it a fun weekend activity to get you learning more about the area.

 

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Great Rainy Winter Day Activities For The Whole Family  

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood things to do

Do you know those days when it’s not cold enough to snow but not sunny enough to spend it outside? The days where the rain doesn’t stop pouring, but it’s not warm enough for you to splash around in the puddles? Well, in Canada these days happen more often than not, especially in the Collingwood Area. 

If you have recently moved into the neighborhood and looking for something to do, the list below has got you covered. When the days are lovely, you can get excited to indulge in some of the most fantastic outdoor scenery that Ontario has to offer. 

Indoor Treasure Hunt

If you have kids and live in the Collingwood area, an indoor treasure hunt is a perfect activity for a cold and rainy day. While you may want to get some fresh air still, you probably don’t want to spend too much time outside, so why not spend what little time you do outside on a cold rainy day, collecting natural treasures. 

Head outside with your outdoor gear and have your kids collect unique stones, driftwood, or other tiny treasures. You can then head inside, make some hot cocoa, and hide the objects around the house. Your kids will be excited to find their outdoor treasures inside. 

Living Room Camping

While Blue Mountain and Collingwood are prime areas for camping and enjoying the outdoors, you won’t be getting to do much outdoor adventuring when the winter is cold and rainy. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t bring that camp atmosphere indoors. 

Bust out your old tent, get some flashlights and sleeping bags, and set up a campsite in your living room. Your kids can camp out for a night or two, or the whole family can snuggle up for a movie marathon. Once you’re enclosed in the tent, the rain pattering away at the window, it will feel like you are deep in the woods. 

Make A Rain Gauge

If you have young kids, they may be studying science and learning about the weather and atmosphere. What better way to help progress their learning while having fun than by seeing if the weather channel predictions are accurate. You can create a rain measuring device by merely attaching a ruler to a bottle or can with a flat bottom. You can then measure the rainfall over a day and see if it matches up with weather reports. You can give away prizes to whoever has the closest guess.

While rainy days are not the most enjoyable, you may have more fun than you think if you try the above activities. Once the snow starts falling, you can grab your skis and head to one of Collingwood’s gorgeous resorts. While they may be closed for a short period, they will undoubtedly be back up and running in no time. 

If you are not a skier, no need to worry. The spring and summer present just as many opportunities for enjoying the fresh air in Collingwood. With a bit of time, you will soon come to realize you are living in the best place in Ontario. 

 

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How To Stay Social, Active, & Outdoors This Winter

by Collingwood InfoUncategorized

With the days getting colder and with outdoor activities being more limited, people are wondering how to navigate the months ahead. While you will want to stay active and social, with indoor gatherings limited, you might have some trouble. During a year that has seen multiple hurdles, finding ways to interact from afar while outdoors will undoubtedly be more challenging this winter.

If you and your family or group of friends are trying to rethink the months ahead and find ways to stay safe and connected while simultaneously enjoying the fresh air, you might need some help. Thankfully, Collingwood is a perfect spot to make the most of the outdoors. 

Explore Collingwood Area Hikes

The Collingwood area is a natural wonderland and home to many popular destinations that attract Canadians from coast-to-coast. For those currently living in the Collingwood area or thinking about relocating here from the city, luckily, there are many hiking trails that you can still enjoy during the winter months. 

Many people often balk at the idea of hiking in the winter, claiming it will be too cold or snowy. If you prepare, though, you can make it just as fun, if not more so, than hiking in the summer. Prepare yourself some hot drinks, bundle up, and put on a good pair of waterproof shoes. Once you eliminate potential discomfort, you can head out and enjoy the Georgian Trail, Loree Forest Loop, The Beaver River Trail, or one of the many other scenic hiking spots. 

Lake Skating

While there are many outdoor rinks and community centers that offer places to skate throughout the winter, it does not compare to the wild feeling of skating across a glass lake with nothing but trees and snow surrounding you. Skating on lakes can be an excellent activity for the whole family, but you have to make sure it is cold enough before settling on a destination. 

There are various places to get ice thickness reports, which can let you know if it’s safe to skate. When it’s cold enough, you can skate on Georgina Bay, Lake Simcoe, or you can head to Eugenia Lake just a bit south of Collingwood. 

Campfire Cookouts

There’s something special about having a roaring fire amidst a snowy landscape. The smell of the fire, the cool air on your cheeks, and good company at your side can transport you to another time and place. There are many places to have a bonfire throughout Collingwood, whether it’s at your friend’s country house or a provincial park. 

Once you have a spot, call up some friends and have a socially-distanced cookout. You can wrap up some sweet potatoes in foil, roast sausages, or even throw some hamburgers on a grill. A cookout will be an excellent way to get a hefty dose of fresh air and social time. 

As you look ahead to the winter months, rather than get discouraged by the various pandemic-restrictions, try and look on the bright side. There are still great ways to get together with friends while also enjoying the fresh air. 

By checking out the Collingwood hiking trails, lake-skating, and having a campfire cookout, you can be sure your winter won’t feel too different from past years.  

 

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Preparing For A COVID-19 Collingwood Ski Season

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood things to do / Uncategorized

With an unprecedented year coming to a close and some cold and unpredictable months ahead, more people are thinking about how to get their daily recreation and leisure in during the winter. Skiing, the perfect combination of exercise and recreation, has long been a winter pastime for many Canadians throughout the country (primarily on the West Coast, in Quebec and Ontario.) 

Collingwood, one of Ontario’s most coveted ski destinations and the home of some established mountain resorts and private clubs, is witnessing a changing tide that could change not just the face of the mountains, but skiing accessibility in general. As more mountains prepare for a busy winter and try to navigate COVID-19 protocols without going under, skiers try to comprehend how they should approach the snowy season. 

If you are a skier and wondering what you can do to stay safe while also skiing regularly, you will need some advice. Whether you plan on moving to the area or are a long time visitor, these tips will help you feel more confident about the months ahead. 

Contact Hills Individually

A big mistake you might make this ski season is assuming the rules are the same at each ski hill. While past winters were as easy as driving up to a resort, unloading your gear, and hitting the lift, things are different now, much different. As most hills will be swamped trying to invoke a new system for booking and renting, you need to ensure you have the correct details before jumping in the car. 

If you are already living in the Blue Mountains area, currently looking for homes, or coming in from the city, knowing how each hill is approaching the season will help you prepare. You can find out what their scheduling system is like, what their COVID protocols are, and other information that will better inform your excursion. 

Avoid Renting

For tourists and people looking to try skiing for the first time, renting equipment is useful, especially if you realize you never want to do it again. However, if you tend to ski every year, even if only once or twice, but have never bought yourself gear, this is the year you should. Renting requirements could make your ski excursion more complicated, increasing wait times or costing you more money than usual. 

If you invest in some good skis or borrow from a friend, you will be better prepared for the Collingwood ski season. As you might also have to ski somewhere further from home or at a hill you’ve never visited, having your own equipment will ensure you actually ski and aren’t just waiting for your friends and family to finish.

Stay Updated

If there was ever a time to listen to the news, it’s now. With COVID-19 protocols in constant flux and more news regarding the months ahead being released every second, you should be staying up to date. Keeping informed about the issues and the state of various winter activities like skiing in the Collingwood area will ensure you don’t miss any critical information. 

Preparation will be necessary if you want to ski this winter in the Collingwood area. If you contact the various hills and find out their protocols, avoid renting and stay informed, you will plan your trip more effectively. While the upcoming months may be different than others, if there’s anything Canadians handle best, it’s the unpredictability of winter.

 

 

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What’s Going on in Collingwood This December?

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood Events

During the winter, it is important to get out of the house and join in on community events. Thankfully, the town of Collingwood has no shortage of fun and interesting events for its residents. Be sure to make some room in your calendar for these great events this December.

 

Essential Oils Workshop for the Holidays

 

Essential oils are a great way to improve the smell and quality of the air in your home. Be sure to swing by the Essential Oils Workshop for the Holidays hosted by AromaTouch certified practitioners Eda Redmond and Linda Teeter. This workshop is the perfect way to incorporate aromatherapy into your winter schedule. The workshop takes place on December 3rd at 7 PM at the Collingwood Library. Anyone interested in registering needs to call Dorothy at 705-445-1571.

Technology for Beginners

 

Technology is constantly changing, making it difficult to stay updated and on top of the new trends. This is especially true for some of the older Collingwood residents. Thankfully, there is a multi-week program at the Collingwood Public Library called Technology for Beginners. This program is made to help the residents of Collingwood have a better understanding of their devices. Technology for Beginners covers a number of great topics like using PayPal, precautionary safety measures and more. The event takes place on December 5th, 12th, and 19th at 10:30 AM.

 

A RatPacked Christmas Comedy Hour

 

The winter blues can be all too real in December; that’s why it’s important to go out and laugh once in a while. Anyone in need of a good chuckle should head over to the Simcoe Street Theatre for A RatPacked Christmas Comedy Hour. This is a 2-day comedy event that takes place from December 7th to the 8th. Hosted by comedians James Godfrey and Kevin Finn (along with a “crooner” Thomas Finn), the event is sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. The event also features Rebeca Rain as a special guest. Anyone interested in going can contact [email protected] for more information.

 

Frozen in Time Ice Festival

 

Nothing is better than ending off the year with a good time. Anyone in Collingwood should head over to the Frozen in Time Ice Festival. The festival is filled with fun activities such as the Ice Sculpture Celebration and the Winter Wonderland Village. The festival runs all day from December 28th to the 30th.

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Collingwood in the New Year

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood Events / Collingwood things to do / Uncategorized

As we enter into January, and the prime of the winter season, in many ways Collingwood is just starting to come alive.  The days may be short, and the darkness comes early, but there are lots of fun and exciting events to get you through the winter and into spring.  Not to mention, a great line-up of exciting things to come in the latter half of the year, and plenty of events to look forward to for kids and adults alike as we embrace a new year with new possibilities as a community.  Get out your calendar to mark down some dates and get ready to join in on the fun!

Celebrating Winter

As a town located at the foothills of the Blue Mountains, and spending much of the time in winter mode, there are still several months of snow and snow activities to look forward to as we kick off 2018.    The Skate Trail through Discovery Harbour will open on the weekends until (hopefully!) mid March, and this year, in addition to skating, will be offering a snowshoe trail and a snow tubing hill.  As has become an annual event, Locations North will host their annual Winter Blast fundraiser as a ski and snowshoe day in February.  Book your tickets now to enjoy a day of outdoor winter fun and support a good cause at the same time. And finally, for all the pie lovers and food connoisseurs in town, don’t miss out on the Apple Pie Trail Feest!  For an evening combining snowshoeing, wine, and pie, strap on your snowshoes and trek across moon-lit trails and stop at fire-lit cabins where you get to enjoy food and drink featuring local chefs and local products.  Definitely an evening not to pass up!

Take in the Arts

We have mentioned before about the amazing arts scene available in Collingwood, and this year will be no different.  With an exceptional line up of plays and on-stage performances happening at Theatre Collingwood, and Meaford Hall, and the Elvis Festival taking over the scene in July, if your heart lights up when you see shows on stage, you’re in for a delight in the year ahead.  The call for artists has gone out for the Blue Mountain Foundation for the Arts annual Juried Art Show, and awards will be presented on April 22.   Put your talent to the test and submit your artwork for the whole community to enjoy.

collingwood in summer

Let’s Do Summer

While there may be lots to love about Collingwood in the winter, things come alive in the summer too!  The prime location on the Georgian Bay means there are endless options for beach days, spending time with the kids building sand castles and swimming.  And don’t think that the mountains are only best when they are covered in snow.  In fact, the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster is a summer-only activity in the Blue Mountains and is a must-do in the warmer months – if you dare!  While you’re there, go on a hike or enjoy a gondola ride, and then enjoy a beer at one of the many local breweries once you reach the bottom.  Summer has lots to offer and spending it out in the community in the sunshine is the best way to take it all in.

With 2018 just around the corner, start now to plan your year, book your vacation and secure your theater tickets.  Collingwood is sure to live up to your desires for a year of fun.

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Community in Collingwood

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood Events / Collingwood things to do / Uncategorized

The holiday season is the time of year where we catch up with friends, spend time with family, meet the neighbors for the annual neighborhood potluck, and take the kids into the town square for the tree lighting.  In essence, the holidays are about community and about cultivating connections.  They’re about coming together, uniting and celebrating. This holiday season – and in the New Year ahead – make every interaction count. Here are some fantastic ways to embrace your Collingwood community:

Support the Community

While many community events this time of year are holiday and Christmas themed, participating in any events organized by the community supports community mentality and of course, encourages community economic growth.  Head to the Collingwood Winter Farmer’s Market, where you can support local farmers and local small business owners. Happening every Saturday, it’s a great way to get out in the community, plus get some fresh food for the week ahead.  You can also take part in the local art scene. The Blue Mountain Foundation for the Arts Annual Winter Gift Show and Sale is on until December 31st at the Arts Centre, and the Broadway Tenors are visiting Casino Rama on December 2nd.

Involve the Kids

The holiday season has an array of special activities and events that happen only once a year, and this is especially exciting when you’re a kid and have been waiting for it all year long. There is something special and heart-warming about being out in the community, surrounded by snow and seeing storefronts all aglow with their Christmas displays. It is the perfect setting to share with your family.  Head out to the streets for several Holiday Gift Market and craft fairs around town, or take in a performance of The Nutcracker.  You can visit Santa and his reindeer, or enjoy the Festival of Lessons and Carols.  All of these are kid-friendly events so they are a great chance to get the whole family out into the community as well as meet other families who live within the Collingwood bounds.

Relish in the Rich Culture

Whether you are learning about the history of the town, or attending culturally supportive events, holding onto culture and history is an important part of building a strong community.  You can think of it as building a foundation: when you understand the culture and seek to preserve it, this acts as the building blocks for a community everyone wants to support and maintain.  Support cultural awareness by attending events at the Simcoe County Museum, such as Christmas Past and Present or at the Meaford Hall Arts and Cultural Centre.  The cultural centre regularly has plays and concerts on, so be sure to check the schedule and get your tickets!

 

Despite the busyness of the upcoming weeks, put in an extra effort to show your support and get involved in the Collingwood community.  You’ll have fun, meet new people, and in the process, contribute to helping support this charming place we all love and call home.

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