Image
Collingwood Live & Original
Live & Original Initiative
The Collingwood Live & Original Initiative champions creativity in all its forms, fostering a vibrant community culture that celebrates live, one-of-a-kind artistry. The initiative also brings the world’s creativity to Collingwood by producing and presenting dynamic public events. From local gems to global artistry, it’s a platform where original and live art thrive together, connecting, collaborating, and inspiring like nowhere else.
Concert Series
Image
Live & Original Music
L&O Summer Concert Series
The Collingwood Live & Original Music Initiative creates opportunities for musicians to connect, collaborate, and cultivate their craft. Spend an evening on the shores of Georgian Bay enjoying live music performed by a diverse selection of established and emerging artists from across the province. The L&O Summer Concert Series is presented by the Town of Collingwood.
Concert Series - Details
July 4
The Boys & I — 6:00 PM
The Boys & I are a high‑energy rock band from Kitchener, Ontario, blending modern alternative rock with classic influences to create dynamic, crowd‑moving performances. Since forming in 2018, they’ve built a loyal following across Southern Ontario through powerful original music, tight musicianship, and an unmistakable stage presence. Their debut EP Ignite, featuring the fan‑favourite single “White Hot,” has surpassed 100,000 streams and helped propel them onto stages at NXNE and Toronto’s El Mocambo. With their anthemic sound and relentless drive, The Boys & I continue to grow as a standout live act.
Jason Wilson and Ashara — 7:00 PM
Jason Wilson is a two‑time Juno nominee, bestselling historian, and the only artist nominated for both a Canadian Folk Music Award and a Canadian Reggae Music Award, winning the latter. Performing with his band Ashara—which features renowned guitarist Carl Harvey, longtime bandleader for Toots & The Maytals—Wilson crafts a sound often described as where Scotland meets Jamaica in Canada. Their latest project, Auld Acquaintance, honours the musical legends Wilson has collaborated with, including UB40, Alanis Morissette, Aswad, Amanda Marshall, and Dave Swarbrick.
July 18
Josh Ritchie — 6:00 PM
Josh Ritchie is a Canadian rock and experimental‑folk artist known for bold, emotionally charged songwriting that explores identity, purpose, and hope. A natural performer from an early age, he brings commanding, stadium‑ready energy to every stage he steps onto. His work blends meticulous composition with a strong sense of narrative, reflecting his interest in the connection between art and activism. Ritchie’s earlier releases, including his acclaimed EP on growing up BIPOC in rural Ontario, earned national attention. His concept album So Much More Than a Dream (2025) marks a powerful new chapter.
Jenie Thai — 7:00 PM
Jenie Thai brings warmth, charm, and a soulful presence to the stage. Her piano‑driven sound is steeped in blues, and her ballads carry a contemporary R&B edge. She is currently touring as a support act for the Downchild Blues Band’s 50th anniversary. Mature beyond her years, Jenie’s song writing and musicianship transcend Folk and Blues, offering a fresh, modern sound.
August 15
Gracie Jet — 6:00 PM
Gracie Jet is a storytelling folk‑rock artist known for her electric energy and disarming sincerity. A registered nurse who served on the front lines during the COVID‑19 pandemic, she carries those experiences into her songwriting, shaping a grounded, compassionate view of the world. Her music often reads like a journal entry—intimate, raw, and quietly powerful. With her sound now honed into a confident artistic voice, Gracie is preparing to release her debut album Smile in fall 2026. She continues to emerge as a compelling talent to watch.
Duende — 7:00 PM
Duende are a six‑piece Nuevo Flamenco and Latin collective who bring the passion and emotion of the genre to new audiences through a vibrant mix of flamenco, Gipsy Kings‑inspired rhythms, timeless classics, and original works by award‑winning K‑W guitarist Juneyt Yetkiner. The ensemble features Juneyt Yetkiner, Leo Orlov, Adam Kurgatnikov, Aaron “LoveSound” Seunarine, Aaron Spink, and David Skolnick — some of Canada’s top musicians. Named for the Spanish term describing a profound artistic awe, Duende deliver performances that embody that spirit with energy, virtuosity, and heartfelt expression.
August 22
The Mike McCarthy Band — 6:00 PM
The Mike McCarthy Band is a Canadian ensemble blending neo‑country, southern rock, and Canadiana into a heartfelt, high‑energy sound led by singer‑songwriter Mike McCarthy. With harmonies from Erica Prinn‑McCarthy and a seasoned roster featuring Jerome Tucker (bass), Carl Harvey (lead guitar), Gabor Szepesi (keys), and Rich Greenspoon (drums), the group brings together decades of touring, recording, and festival experience across Canada, the U.S., and Europe. Their performances combine gritty guitar work, soulful melodies, and a driving rhythm section, creating a dance‑ready sound that resonates with audiences.
Fiddlestix — 7:00 PM
Fiddlestix delivers an electrifying, genre‑blending performance that mixes Country, Celtic, Folk, and Pop. Led by award‑winning fiddler Steve Bowen, this powerhouse band creates a high‑energy concert experience often described as the highlight of the summer—uniting generations through music and pure rock‑concert excitement.
On Location
Drinks & Snacks
Pizza Pizza — perfect for all ages — and Side Launch Brewing Co.* offering cold drinks for the grown-ups!
* Alcoholic beverages must stay within the designated audience area. Thank you for sipping responsibly.
Pedal or Park
Concert goers are encouraged to walk, cycle, or use public transit to the Amphitheatre. Parking is available in the Birch Street lot. There is a designated drop-off spot at the accessible curb cut on North Maple Street.
Washrooms
Temporary washroom facilities are located just west of the Amphitheatre. Look for the Washroom flag, then follow the trail across the bridge to the Birch Street parking lot — about a 90-second walk from the venue.
Sponsors
Interested in Sponsorship opportunities? Learn more here