Category: Collingwood things to do

3 Fun Activities for When It Gets Too Cold This Winter

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood things to do

As fun as it can be to frolic in the snow, when temperatures begin to drop below 0 C, there is no denying it can get a little bit uncomfortable. This is even truer when the temperature plummets to -10 C, -20 C and lower. When the winter weather begins to become unbearable, residents in Collingwood, ON will have to resort to indoor activities. Thankfully, there are a number of fun things that can be done in the home and in covered areas in Collingwood, ON.

 

Indoor Ice Skating

 

When the winter weather gets wild, it’s not a bad idea to pack up some skates and go to one of the indoor skating areas in the Collingwood, ON area. Collingwood residents can visit either the Eddie Bush Memorial Arena or the Central Park Area. Residents are welcome to take part in any of the scheduled events or they can take matters into their own hands and rent out one of the rinks. This makes it easy to put together a fun game of hockey or go for a relaxing skate around the rink.

Play Board Games

 

Few things are more fun than spending an evening playing a board game with friends or family. Although it may get competitive, board games are a great bonding activity and are efficient time killers. Many board games can take multiple hours (or even days) to complete, making them perfect activities for snow days. Those that want to get out of the house can check out Side Launch Brewing’s “12 Days of Side Launch: Board Games and Beer” on December 18th. The 12 Days of Side Launch is a multi-day event that is hosted by the Collingwood Brewing Company. The Board Games and Beer event is a great opportunity to show off some skills and have a few adult beverages with some friends.

 

Movie Marathon

 

As the weather begins to get colder and colder, many people will find themselves becoming lazier and lazier. The activity for a cold, lazy Sunday is a movie marathon. Grab a warm blanket, fluff your pillows and grab your favorite snack. Those that aren’t a huge fan of movies may want to find a series that they can enjoy. Invite over friends or family members and let the good times roll, regardless of the cold weather outside in Collingwood, ON.

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Fun Activities to Do This Winter in Collingwood

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood things to do

Although the days are short and the weather is cold, there are a number of ways that you can make the most out of a snowy Collingwood winter. Ditch your TV and blankets and go outside and enjoy what Mother Nature has to offer.

Skiing or Snowboarding

For those in need of an adrenaline rush, make the most out of the snow by going skiing or snowboarding. Skiing and snowboarding are great ways to utilize the snowy weather and have a good time. They are fun activities to do with friends, family or individually. Collingwood residents are lucky to have the fantastic Blue Mountain Resort just a short drive away. The Blue Mountain Resort offers some of the best ski hills in all of Ontario. This makes it the perfect spot for Collingwood residents to get their shred on this winter.

Go For a Walk

There are few things more beautiful than a forest after a fresh snowfall. After a snowfall, be sure to take advantage of one of the many trails in the Collingwood area. Whether it’s a 15-minute walk or a multi-hour hike, spending time in nature is good for the body and the mind. Feel free to take a camera or your smartphone to snap some wintery pictures. However, be sure to wear the appropriate clothing such as a jacket, gloves and a hat. These garments will minimize the chances of getting frostbite.

Play in the Snow

Regardless of your age, it is fun to play in the snow. It’s a great way to get a bit of exercise and can be quite nostalgic. Gather up some friends and have a giant snowball fight. It’s also fun to build a large snow fort or igloo. If done right, you can even spend the night in an igloo. After all the fun is over, you can go inside and enjoy the warmth.

Even though it gets a bad rap for being cold and gloomy, winter can be one of the most fun seasons. It just requires a little bit of creativity. Anyone who is already bored of winter can hit the ski hills, go for a walk on one of the beautiful trails or play in the snow. All of these activities will not only keep you entertained this winter, but they will also help you stay active.

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Autumn Adventures in Collingwood

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood things to do

Before you let your outdoor summer spirit be cast away, take a look at the beauty outside. That’s the beauty of the brightly coloured leaves, fresh fall mornings, chilly evenings, and the beautiful harvest fruits and vegetables you see at the local farmer’s market.  All of this is enough to say that autumn in Ontario is a pretty great season, and it’s certainly not one to spend inside. In fact, Collingwood has lots of autumn adventures for you to take advantage of, and there is no doubt that one would be perfect for you.

Everest Challenge

Do you have “climb Mount Everest,” on your bucket list of adventures? Good news: you can do it right here in Collingwood. Well, almost. Get ready to test your endurance and athletic abilities as you join in teams of 2,4,5,8 or 10 people to climb Blue Mountain – however many times you need to in order to equal Everest’s 29,092 feet. The event will act as a charity fundraiser for the Collingwood General and Marine Hospital, and is a great chance to get active while supporting a good cause.

Free Spirit Tour

For over 19 years, Free Spirit Tours has been offering “unforgettable adventures in the South Georgian Bay.” From Collingwood and Wasaga Beach to Beaver Valley and Metcalfe Rock, the adventures abound and the fun is waiting. You can book your group for a brewery tour or to go caving, paddling, climbing, or wine tasting. In fact, make it even better by combining a wine tour after a day spent paddling on the water. During a new and popular tour, Edible Foraging, you’ll learn about plants growing right in your own community that are edible and offer health and medicinal benefits. The adventure awaits, so find your adventuring crew and reach out to Free Spirit today.

Adventures in Food

Your adventures in Collingwood don’t have to all be adrenaline-filled or take place outdoors. In fact, you can have some adventures sitting down indoors. The very best of these, of course, involves food. Collingwood is home to a rich cultural heritage, and as such, also offers a wide selection of cuisines. Going to restaurants that offer different cuisines presents a great opportunity to get adventurous with your food and maybe even find a new favourite dish. You can start with Jamaican, trying the Jerk Chicken at Angie’s Place in Stayner. From there, Italian awaits you at Trattoria Azzurra. Next up, make things a little spicier as you try Mexican cuisine and head to Bent Taco. And if you’re not feeling that adventurous yet, there are lots of pubs, breweries, and bistros for you to experience for more familiar fare.

 

Many people like autumn because of all things pumpkin, while others are into the season for the fresh apples and hot apple cider. Whatever your reason for loving the season, there are lots of adventures that await, and great ways for you to experience, support, and enjoy your Collingwood neighbourhood.

 

Collingwood in the Fall: Activities, Festivals and Events

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

 

Whether you love the entrance into fall, filled with crisp mornings and changing leaves, or you’re in the “summer forever” club, Collingwood has a lot to offer in this new season.  With Labour Day behind us, and the kids back in school, it’s time to make plans for how to fill your weekends and take advantage of all the fall fun!

Blue Mountains Apple Harvest Festival

Apples and fall go hand in hand, and there is nothing better than biting into a fresh, crisp apple right off the tree.  Celebrate this amazing fruit and harvest by attending the Blue Mountains Apple Harvest Festival. Ontario is a world-renowned apple growing hotspot and people come from all over to experience the Blue Mountain Festival which offers lots of entertainment and activities, beautiful views of the changing foliage, and of course, apples to pick, eat, and enjoy!

Collingwood Fall Market

In addition to the regular weekly market, on October 13th, from 10am to 3pm, visit the Georgian Bay Hotel for their annual Fall Market. With over 50 exhibitors offering everything from arts and crafts to homemade preserves to fresh produce, there is something for everyone to enjoy.  Bring the whole family and make the most of your Saturday!

PumpkinFerno

Taking place in Discovery Harbour, the award winning PumpkinFerno is a must see this season.  From Thursday to Sunday, October 4th to 21st and every evening from October 22nd to 30th, visit the harbour from 7 – 10pm and see the pumpkins aglow.  When dark strikes, the handcrafted pumpkins are set alight, allowing visitors to experience the haunting magic and the impending Terror in the Terror Zone. Suitable for all ages, bring the kids and enjoy your evening at the harbour amidst the pumpkins!

Collingwood Half Marathon and 10K

A fall favourite that brings the community together, whether you run or spectate, this annual Run Collingwood event is not to be missed. Offering you the rare opportunity to run through the city without having to wade through cars or pedestrians, the October 6th run route allows you to spend time along the lake, see the city sights, and be cheered on by the amazing community spirit of Collingwood residents. Be sure to sign up ahead of time to secure your spot!

Be sure to check out these special festivals and events, and don’t forget about the weekly regulars: the Farmer’s Market is on every Saturday making the most of the beautiful fall harvest, as well as other neighbouring town markets. In addition, Northwinds Brewing is happy to offer daily happy hour from 3-6. Head in soon to experience their special fall brews!

Fit in the Fall: Outdoor Activities for the New Season

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood things to do

The end of summer, for some, means the dreaded cold winter is on its way.  The days get shorter, the mornings colder, frost covers the ground, and Old Man Winter gets ready to make an appearance.  But in between, there is the beautiful fall foliage and scenery to take in, the splendid sunsets over the bay, and of course all the wonderful fall food.  And don‘t forget that it is a great time of year to be outside and get active.  Here’s what you can do to make the most of the fall season.

Hiking

The abundance of trails, outdoor green space, and mountains surrounding Collingwood make it an ideal location to take up hiking. Many people think of hiking only as an extreme activity, requiring strapping on a heavy backpack and hitting long, arduous trails that require many hours of exercise.  While this is an option, hiking is good no matter how long the trail! Make it a Saturday or Sunday afternoon event with the family and visit some local, shorter trails. You can bring a small backpack with some snacks and water, and everyone will benefit from the time outside, the exercise, and the extra family bonding.

Orienteering

A new and up and coming outdoor activity, orienteering, or geo-caching is catching on across the country, especially in areas like Collingwood and surrounding suburbs that have a great deal of nature to offer. The idea is to use a map and compass to find a certain location, and for the highly devoted, there are even geo-caching competitions.  Start simply, by heading out with your family or friends and looking for some specific GPS coordinates, finding your way using a compass. Not only is it active and a great way to enjoy the fall scenery, but it is also a valuable skill for kids to learn and ensure their safety in the woods.

Paddling

The beautiful Georgian Bay is not to be forgotten when it comes to thinking about active opportunities.  Paddling on the bay in the fall presents gorgeous scenery and picturesque opportunities, all while being outside and getting some physical activity.  Both canoeing and kayaking are options and you can invite friends and family, getting everyone together for an early morning out on the bay. If you do not have your own gear, you can rent it from Swift Outdoor Centre – just be sure to have the proper safety equipment before you begin.

These are just three of the many fun fall active opportunities you can take advantage of in the local area. With the beautiful fall trees and the crisp mornings filled with fresh air, there is no better time than autumn to get outside and have some fun. Grab yourself your favourite fall beverage, put on a sweater, and head outdoors!

 

Last Minute Plans: 3 Things to Do Before the Kids go Back to School

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood Events / Collingwood things to do

It’s hard to believe that it is over halfway through August, and that we are staring down the end of summer. Whether you have had a jam-packed last few weeks or feel like you haven’t quite done enough and want to get in that one last activity, here are three things to do before the summer holidays officially come to a close.

Visit the Library

There is lots going on at the Collingwood Public Library for the remainder of August and you can take in everything from knitting and painting vases, to yoga, chess, and learning how to code.  Here are some special events you don’t want to miss:

Writing Workshop

Give the kids a head start on writing for school, by attending a writing workshop with Brian Henry.  Coming in to educate attendees on book publishing, how to be a better writer, sending pitches, and more. Henry will be joined by guest speaker, literary agent Paige Sisley who will discuss being in a publishing agency and how aspiring writers can get into the market. A daylong event, from 10-4 on August 18th, be sure to visit the website to learn more and book your place.

Essential Oils Workshop

Learn how to use aromatherapy to help with concentration, focus and to improve mental alertness.  Aromatouch Therapy certified practitioners, Edna Redmond and Linda Teeter will show you how from 10:30am to noon on August 25th.

Harry Potter Day

Also taking place on August 25th, at the Meaford Library, Harry Potter Day is must add to the calendar for fids who are fans of the magical wizardry. A fundraiser for the library, the library will transform into Hogwarts, and everyone is welcome to don their wizard costumes, grab their magic wands, and come pay a visit.

Village Vibe

Blue mountain’s Village Vibe, on August 18th and 19th, let’s you take in the best of the village before the summer ends.  Hit the streets and enjoy a Scavenger hunt or a magic show, and take advantage of one of the many live music gigs happening from 3pm until late. Kids can participate in story time by the pond, take ukulele lessons, or join up with Mom and Dad on a morning hike led by Columbia. Be sure to check out the schedule to find out when your favourite events are happening!

Outdoor Adventure

Make the most of the sunny Saturdays left in August and join in on Outdoor Adventure held every Saturday (weather permitting) by the Collingwood Youth Centre. Open to youth age 7-18 and parents, check out the website to see what is on offer each week as well as details for meet-up time and location.

Summer may be on the downward trajectory towards the end, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t lots to still enjoy and take advantage of.  Make the last few weekends count as you get outside, get involved in the community, and learn something new in the process.

Collingwood is Your Backyard: News and Events

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

Sometimes when you live in a specific location and spend most of your time there and get used to the daily routine and nuances of the area, it can be easy to miss when there is news and exciting things happening. After all, many of us read the newspaper for surrounding areas or world news, more than we do for what is happening in our own backyard. Think of this post as your mini neighbourhood update and read up on some exciting things about Collingwood and surrounding areas that recently showed up in the news.

New Collingwood Caesar Bar

The first of its kind in Canada, Steve Walker is launching 1858 Caesar Bar in Collingwood, an ode to his hometown and his love of Caesars. Starting out simply as a drink-making hobby, Walker soon turned to making a Caesar shot, before honing his recipes and skills and developing 20 specialty Caesar recipes, which are available in hundreds of combinations to be sold at his bar.  Customers will be able to pick their rim flavour, and a selection of other add-ins, as well as enjoy their drink with some food. To date business has “been crazy,” and Walker says it’s because they are “providing an experience,” and in a town like Collingwood, everyone is happy to have new experiences.

Collingwood is an Ideal Spot for an Active Getaway

As a city, Collingwood prides itself on offering lots of opportunities for residents to be active, get outside and stay healthy, in a beautiful community, with beautiful scenery all around. And now, it seems people are taking notice. Collingwood has been recommended as an ideal stop on an Ontario road trip, mentioning its 72 kilometres of trail systems within the community and amongst several other municipalities, as well as the ability to take in the world’s largest fresh water beach.  Show up in winter and there are several ski slopes, all of which encourage lots of active outdoor hours, while Wasaga Beach, Scenic Caves Nature Adventures, and the annual Elvis festival are all rated as great things to plan to do.

Staying Classic

Collingwood is not always just up for the new and first, and sometimes instead likes to keep things classic. Take your kids to offer them the opportunity to enjoy one of the classic movies in a free outdoor film series held at the Collingwood Shipyards Amphitheatre.  Highlighting the importance of classic films in entertainment history, the showings will take place the first and third Sunday of August, beginning at dusk, and all showings are free.

There is lots happening in Collingwood for the rest of the summer, and much of it is exciting enough to make the news. Come on out and enjoy what Collingwood has to offer for the last few weekends of summer vacation and remind yourself how much you appreciate your own backyard.

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!

 

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!