Live & Original Waterfront Festival

Carly Thomas Band — 6:00 PM

With an honest, heart-on-sleeve approach to songwriting, Carly brings a sense of wanderlust to every lyric. Described as “moody Americana/rock” with touches of indie pop, folk, and a hint of country twang, Carly Thomas delivers music that resonates deeply and lingers long after the last note.

Fiddlestix — 7:00 PM

An electrifying, genre-blending performance that mixes Country, Celtic, Folk, and Pop. Led by award-winning fiddler Steve Bowen, this powerhouse band delivers a concert experience that’s been called the highlight of the summer—uniting generations through music and pure rock-concert energy.

Bounce by the Bay

Get in the game at the Bounce by the Bay Basketball Zone — where the energy is high, the competition is friendly, and every shot counts! As part of Sidelaunch Days, this pop-up court invites players of all ages and skill levels to shoot hoops, take part in quick challenges, or just show off their moves. It’s a great spot to gather, cheer each other on, and keep the festival vibe bouncing. Whether you're sinking three-pointers or trying for your first free throw, there's fun waiting on the court.

Mini-Makers' Playground

Let imaginations soar at the Mini-Makers Playground — a hands-on wonderland where little builders dream big! Kids can climb, stack, and sculpt with the giant blue blocks of the Imagination Playground, then get crafty with a special activity hosted by the Collingwood Museum. From whimsical creations to creative keepsakes, there’s fun for every young explorer.

Dockside Delights

Savour the flavours of Sidelaunch Days at Dockside Delights — your go-to spot for bold bites, local favourites, and thirst-quenching sips. From smoky street food to island spice, it’s a waterfront feast worth bringing your appetite to. 

Dockside Bar

Side Launch Brewing Co.* offering cold drinks for the grown-ups! Enjoy a cold beverage from Collingwood’s own Side Launch Brewing Company.

Bodega Bites

Misfits Bodega breaks the mold with bold, flavour-packed eats — from stacked sandwiches to smoky street food with serious attitude. Come hungry, leave converted.

Cones, Compass, and Cocktails

Cool off with a cone of Dockside Cappuccino, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, or classic Vanilla — or aboard the moored Huronic for a breezy cocktail with a view. Whether you're craving something sweet or something spirited, these stops hit the spot.

Slice Launch

Grab a slice of the action with Pizza Pizza, serving up hot, fresh pizza all day long at Sidelaunch Days. It’s the perfect way to keep your crew fuelled while enjoying the waterfront fun.

Caribbean Comforts

Bringing island soul to the street, Bedward Jerk House serves up rich, smoky Caribbean comfort food — where every bite brings the heat and heart of the islands.

All Aboard the Playfair!

Climb aboard the TS Playfair, a towering tall ship docked in Collingwood Harbour for Sidelaunch Days! Explore its hand-crafted decks, meet the Brigs crew, and step into the age of sail as you learn about life aboard this historic brigantine! An unforgettable experience for sea lovers of all ages.

 

Pirates on the Promenade

Ahoy, mateys! The Pirates of Thornbury Community Theatre are storming Sidelaunch Days with a tidal wave of fun and mischief! These lively characters will roam the festival with rollicking performances, interactive games for kids and families, and pirate trivia.

Poetry on the Pier

Step into the world of words with Poetry on the Pier, a playful and inspiring activity curated by Collingwood’s Poet Laureate, Kate Russell. Whether you're drawing surprise poetry prompts from a jar or remixing well known verses, all you need is a spark of imagination to dive into the art of poetry.

 

Brushstrokes by the Bay

Local plein air artists capture the ever-changing light of Collingwood’s harbour in real time. Stop by to preview select works from Harbour Reflections — a special exhibit and auction celebrating our waterfront through art.

 

 

Rhythm & Oars

Discover the thrill of being on the water with Collingwood’s Paddling and Rowing Clubs. Stop by for live demonstrations, program info, and a chance to connect with the vibrant local paddling community.

Sky Splash!

Get ready for high-flying excitement! Sky Splash shows feature a thrilling mix of aerial stunts and synchronized movement above the water — all with active audience participation. Performances take place throughout the afternoon, so don’t miss the action!

Showtimes: 

SUP Races

The Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) Races at Sidelaunch Days are a thrilling highlight of the festival’s waterfront fun. With the scenic harbour as the backdrop, paddlers of all levels take to the water to compete in exciting, fast-paced heats that showcase balance, speed, and strategy. Whether you’re cheering from the shore or joining the action on a board, the SUP races capture the energy and spirit of summer on the bay — friendly, competitive, and full of splashy excitement.

Turntables & Tides

Feel the rhythm roll in with DJ Andy H & DJ Code Blue as they transform the docked Huronic into a floating soundstage! From smooth daytime grooves to sunset party vibes, their live sets will bring the harbour to life with beats, bass, and pure summer energy.

Live & Original Waterfront Festival

Bernadette Connors Band — 6:00 PM

Soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and small-town Ontario roots. Bernadette blends rock, folk, and emotional storytelling, capturing themes of resilience, love, and transformation with striking authenticity.

Freedom Train — 7:00 PM

A powerhouse rock trio known for their tight musicianship and decades of shared musical chemistry. Featuring brothers Carl and Tim Jennings alongside guitarist Matt Gormley, the band blends experience, energy, and pure talent into a sound that keeps crowds coming back for more.

Bayfront Briefings

From environmental stewardship to water safety and community wellness, these engaging booths are stationed throughout the festival to offer insights, inspiration, and conversations that matter — all in celebration of life in, on, and around the water. Curious minds welcome! 

Paws & PFDs

Pet Valu Collingwood has tail-wagging tips on how to keep your four-legged friends safe and happy in and around the water. From flotation to hydration, they’ve got your pet’s shoreline safety covered.

Swim Safe with GTAC

Drop by the Georgian Triangle Aquatics Committee booth to learn life-saving water safety tips, explore their lifejacket loaner program, and discover affordable ways to keep your family active in the water year-round. Kids can enjoy colouring sheets and fun activities while you pick up info that could save a life. 

Keep It Flowing

Learn how the Blue Mountain Watershed Trust works to protect the health of our local lands and waters. Stop by to discover how you can be part of safeguarding our watershed’s future! 

Ride for a Reason - Cycle for Hope

Meet passionate members of the team behind Georgian Bay Cycle for Hope and learn how they’re raising vital funds for cancer care in our region. Be inspired to ride, donate, or cheer them on this August 16th.

Nature Knows Best

Reconnect with the world around you at the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority booth, where you’ll explore how conservation efforts support a healthier future for everyone. Learn about local wildlife, protecting our watersheds, and leave with a deeper appreciation for nature’s role in our everyday lives.

Cruise & Choose

Step aboard a Ranger Tug and enjoy a ride on the water, courtesy of Maple Leaf Yacht Sales — your local experts in power and sailboats. A perfect stop for prospective boaters and dreamers alike.

Turf Talk

Be among the first to learn about Collingwood’s upcoming indoor turf and training facility, opening in 2026! Turbo Sport & Performance  will be on hand to share their vision for a year-round space where athletes and families can play, train, and stay active.

On the Horizon

Explore the future of Collingwood through the lens of visionary developers Fram + Slokker. Learn how their community-first projects are shaping tomorrow — with a nod to the town’s heritage.

SUP Races

The Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) Races at Sidelaunch Days are a thrilling highlight of the festival’s waterfront fun. With the scenic harbour as the backdrop, paddlers of all levels take to the water to compete in exciting, fast-paced heats that showcase balance, speed, and strategy. Whether you’re cheering from the shore or joining the action on a board, the SUP races capture the energy and spirit of summer on the bay — friendly, competitive, and full of splashy excitement.

All Aboard the Playfair!

Climb aboard the TS Playfair, a towering tall ship docked in Collingwood Harbour for Sidelaunch Days! Explore its hand-crafted decks, meet the Brigs crew, and step into the age of sail as you learn about life aboard this historic brigantine! An unforgettable experience for sea lovers of all ages.