The Town of Collingwood is excited to welcome residents and visitors to Sidelaunch Days, a signature waterfront festival celebrating everything in, on, and around the water.
The festivities kick off on Friday, August 7, with an evening of live music beginning at 6:00 p.m. with the Lisa Hutchinson Band and featuring the Toronto All-Star Big Band. The celebration continues throughout Saturday, August 8, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sunday, August 9, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to noon, all happening along the picturesque Collingwood waterfront.
Festival-goers can enjoy a full weekend of activities celebrating Collingwood’s waterfront lifestyle and maritime heritage. Saturday’s programming includes giant kites over the harbour, SUP races, free “Give It a Try” stand-up paddleboarding sessions, the Science North Discovery Station, food vendors, tall ship tours, and a jet pack air show over the bay. Visitors can also climb aboard a dragon boat and try paddling as part of a team. Families will find interactive activities, demonstrations, entertainment, and hands-on experiences for all ages, making Sidelaunch Days a memorable summer event.
The excitement continues Saturday evening with live performances by Strange Potatoes and Freedom Train, bringing high-energy entertainment to the waterfront. On Sunday morning, visitors will have the opportunity to get out onto the water and experience Southern Georgian Bay firsthand through a variety of on-water activities, including the chance to paddle in a giant voyageur canoe. With so much to see and do, Sidelaunch Days offers a memorable weekend filled with fun, discovery, music, adventure, and waterfront experiences for residents and visitors alike.
Sidelaunch Days, one of Collingwood’s premier summer events, is a celebration of what makes Collingwood special. Inspired by the community’s rich shipbuilding and marine heritage, Sidelaunch Days brings the community together to celebrate the unique connection between the Town and the waters of Southern Georgian Bay. The festival offers an opportunity for families, waterfront enthusiasts, visitors, and community members to experience the harbour, connect with local culture, support local businesses, and enjoy a vibrant weekend of activities along the shoreline’s natural beauty that defines our community.
Event Details
Dates: Friday, August 7 to Sunday, August 9, 2026
Location: Collingwood Promenade, Harbourview Park and Shipyards Amphitheatre
For full event details and updates, visit www.collingwood.ca/events.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
The Town of Collingwood gratefully acknowledges the sponsors whose support helps make Sidelaunch Days possible: the Province of Ontario, FRAM + Slokker and Collingwood Quay, Living Water Retirement Residence, Blu Wave Board Co., Side Launch Brewing Co., Primont Homes, and Pizza Pizza Collingwood.