Free Summer Fun in Collingwood

So you want to start planning some fun activities to do with the family that won’t break the bank? 

I have compiled a list of a few ideas that you can do with the kids this summer.  You can go it alone or bring the entire family.  Share this with your friends and maybe plan some events as a group.  Whichever you choose, there is something for everyone.

By no means does this incorporate EVERYTHING Collingwood has to offer.  As someone who has lived here for quite some time, I can attest to the fact that there are always new events and happenings around town all year long.

So lets get started, shall we?

Biking Collingwood is home to the Georgian trail where you can ride for over 70 kilometres while enjoying the flora and fauna, wildlife and history. You can follow the trail to the top of the berm above the Amphitheatre and enjoy a perfect view of the town, the terminals and see the mountains as well.

Weekend Farmers Market May 20 - Thanksgiving weekend The Collingwood Farmers' Market is open on Saturdays from 8:00 am until 1:00 pm. It is located on the corner of Second and Pine Streets in the historic Downtown. Local vendors feature a wide range of freshly picked seasonal produce, naturally raised meat, preserves, baked goods artwork and more. It is definitely worth a visit.

The Collingwood Museum is located at 45 St Paul Street in the downtown area and is open Tuesday - Saturday from 10:am - 4:00pm (holiday hours will differ). Entry is by donation. You can take a self guided tour of the impressive reconstruction of the 1873 train station and view the preserved history of Collingwood and area. Exhibits showcase our unique shipbuilding heritage and you can also find an archival collection of all things Collingwood. There is also a gift shop if you would like to purchase a keepsake.

Awena Gather Place is also a great spot to visit. It is situated along the Collingwood waterfront (behind McDonalds) to recognize the First Nations presence in South Georgian Bay and to create opportunities for engagement of Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples while fostering reconciliation through education and conversation. While in the neighbourhood take a walk on the trail west and you will find the beautiful Arboretum. With both paved and natural trails it is a Botanical Park that comes complete with historical records of Trees, Shrubs & Plants.

Swimming There are several areas you can choose to swim in the summer and the most obvious, no cost location is Georgian Bay. You can bring the kids to jump of the pier at Millenium Park or go over to sunset beach and enjoy the waterfront park and playground. Indoors we have the YMCA - if you don't have a membership, you can buy a day pass or head over to the Centennial Aquatic centre. For those who want a little more excitement - it will cost you a little bit of money to head over to the Plunge Aquatic Centre in Blue Mountain. You can also visit the splash pad while you are there

Hiking Where you choose to hike may be based on skill level and if you want a flat terrain or something a little more challenging. The Georgian Trail has many walking and biking paths to choose from, just pick up a map trail available in almost every store downtown. For more adventurous treks head up to Loree Forest or the Bruce trail for the Beaver Valley Loop. Or if you want a challenge hike up the mountain over at Blue Mountain. You can always take the Gondola back down.

Self Guided Tour Experience Collingwood in a whole new way. Download the App called Discover Collingwood and you can choose from several different tours you can take, learn about events that are coming up and also find things to do, see and eat before you leave home.

Free Outdoor Concerts Every summer from June to August you can enjoy live Jazz and Blues on Wednesday Evenings between 6-8 pm(biweekly) at The Station, 45 St Paul Street. The local BIA also holds an event called Local Live Lunch where you can enjoy live music every Wednesday from 12-1:30 and purchase lunch if you wish from a different restaurant each week.

Outdoor movies Blue Mountain Village hosts Movies Under the Stars. New movies every Wednesday and Friday during the summer months. Seating is provided along with family friendly fun before the movie gets started. Bring your blanket and grab some popcorn, this event is well attended and lots of fun

Shipyard Amphitheatre (2 North Maple Street) July 7th kicks off a summer series of great live concert performances. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets, or grab a seat along the natural stone tiers facing the gorgeous waterfront and enjoy the events being held here. Visit Collingwood.ca and check the calendar under Culture, recreation & events to see who will be performing and what dates/times.

Picnic in the park One of the nicest things to do with the family is enjoy a picnic outside by the waterfront. There are picnic tables and BBQ's located at Sunset Beach Park which also has a beautiful new park the kids will love.  There are many parks to choose from in Collingwood.

Vacation Bible Camp Every year the Presbyterian Church of Collingwood offers a fun morning of crafts, games and songs for the children of our community. This one week camp is free to attend and is geared for kids in SK to grade 6. It runs from July 17-21st with drop off at 8:45-11:30 a.m. Check their website as each year the date may vary slightly www.firstprescollingwood.com

Visit Neighbouring Towns. There are many quaint small towns that are worth exploring. You can visit the harbour in Thornbury and Meaford, just 15-20 minute drive. They also host music in the park and a farmers markets as well.   We are also 15 minutes to the beaches in Wasaga Beach.  You can make a full day of it as they have restaurants and shops along beach 1 and the town also hosts music in the park and a farmers market as well.  There are also many restaurants and shops near the beach to enjoy while in town.  Next spot on my list is the quaint town of Creemore - less than 15 minutes away check the towns event page to see special events happening all year round.  Lastly the Town of Stayner. is also just a short 10 min drive. I recommend checking out the their towns websites as well  to see what free events they are hosting.  They also have a farmers market and live outdoor music.

The Collingwood Public Library offers a range of exciting and engaging events throughout the year. From story times and craft workshops to special guests and even performances! There is always something fun and educational for kids and families to enjoy. And remember that you can also download books and audio books via there Libby App or the new cloud library app, all you need is a membership card that is free to anyone living in Collingwood. Visit their website to see what the monthly calendar has to offer here: Collingwoodpubliclibrary.ca

I hope you have enjoyed this small list.  It can get you started in thinking outside the box and exploring what our town and all the neighbouring towns have to offer