Sidelaunch Days 2026

Friday, August 7

Social Paddle

7:00 PM

Public Boat Launch

Start your Sidelaunch Days weekend on the water with the SUP Social Paddle — a relaxed, community‑minded evening outing in Collingwood’s harbour. Paddlers of all ages and experience levels are invited to join Ontario SUP Series racers for a friendly group paddle launching from the Birch Street public boat launch in Harbourview Park. It’s an easygoing chance to connect with fellow paddlers, enjoy the calm of the evening light on the bay, and warm up for the festival’s waterfront activities. Bring friends, family, or simply yourself — no pre‑registration required. Whether you’re new to stand‑up paddling or a seasoned racer, this social glide across the harbour sets the perfect tone for a weekend of celebration. Sponsored by Blu Wave Board Co.

Lisa Hutchison Band

6:00 PM

Shipyards Amphitheatre

The Lisa Hutchison Band delivers a powerhouse blend of blues, soul, and gritty, heartfelt vocals that leaves a lasting mark on every stage. Led by Lisa’s unmistakable voice — raw, sweet, and fiercely expressive — the group brings dynamic, crowd‑connecting energy to festivals, clubs, and concert halls across Ontario and beyond. With seasoned musicianship and a deep love for the blues, they craft performances that feel both timeless and electric, earning praise from audiences and organizers throughout the Canadian music scene.

Lisa Hutchison Band

Toronto All-Star Big Band

7:00 PM

Shipyards Amphitheatre

The Toronto All‑Star Big Band is a premier Canadian youth ensemble known for reviving the spirit and sound of the 1930s–1950s big‑band era with remarkable precision and energy. Featuring exceptional young musicians and polished choreography, the group blends brilliant programming with a deep sense of musical nostalgia. Their vibrant performances have made them a favourite among presenters across Ontario, showcasing a level of talent and professionalism that continues to place them among the country’s most exciting and enduring big‑band acts.

https://www.instagram.com/tabbswingofficial

Saturday, August 8

Bounce by the Bay

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Side Launch Way

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.

Sky Splash!

10:30 AM | 12:45 PM | 2:00 PM | 3:30 PM

Launch Basin

High‑flying excitement fills the Launch Basin with a thrilling blend of aerial stunts, synchronized movement, and a pulse‑pounding soundtrack. Skilled performer Chase Courneya returns to the harbour, soaring, spinning, and sweeping above the water in a dynamic display that captures the full energy of Sidelaunch Days. Spectators along the basin’s edge should be ready — Chase is known for adding extra splash to the show with playful sprays that reach spectators. With multiple shows throughout the afternoon, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the spectacle and discover firsthand how this high‑energy performance earns its name.

Currents in the Clouds

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Harbourview Park

Let your imagination drift skyward with a vibrant kite‑flying showcase that transforms Collingwood’s waterfront into a canvas of colour and movement. Professional kite flyers will fill the sky with large‑scale creations that dance above the harbour, offering a mesmerizing display for spectators of all ages. Visitors can settle in to enjoy the spectacle or join the fun themselves with complimentary kites available on‑site. For those looking to take home a lasting piece of the experience, unique one‑of‑a‑kind kites will be available for purchase. It’s a breezy, joyful celebration of creativity, community, and the simple magic of watching the sky come alive. Sponsored by Epcor.

Mini-Makers' Playground

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Side Launch Way

Let imaginations soar at this hands‑on wonderland where little builders can dream big. Kids are invited to climb, stack, and sculpt with the giant blue blocks of the Imagination Playground, creating towers, tunnels, creatures, and anything else their creativity inspires. Glitter tattoos add a splash of colour and festival fun, giving young makers a chance to sparkle as they play. And the excitement doesn’t stop there — Giant Games can be found toward the north end of the promenade, extending the playful energy all along the basin and offering families even more ways to explore, compete, and create together. It’s a lively, drop‑in space designed for collaboration, imagination, and joyful discovery throughout the day.

Collingwood Museum

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Side Launch Way

Get creative with a splash of local history at the Collingwood Museum Craft Station at Sidelaunch Days! Perfect for kids and families, this hands-on activity zone with harbour-themed crafts inspired by Collingwood's vibrant maritime heritage. It's a great way to connect with the community's past while crafting something fun to take home. Learn more about Collingwood's shipbuilding history as you explore the Sidelaunch Days heritage walk which runs between the festival zone and Collingwood's newest park, Drydock Junction. Explore images photographs of the Collingwood Shipyards taken by Ursula Heller in 1978 sharing personal moments and stories that reveal the strength and pride of local shipbuilding families.

Splash of Science

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Waterfront Promenade

Step into Big Wild World and discover how the wonders of nature connect us all — from the tiniest backyard insects to the vast mysteries of the Arctic and the night sky. Science North Bluecoats will guide guests through hands‑on “Woah!” moments that reveal the hidden stories living within our environment. Explore an array of fascinating specimens as you touch and compare skulls from walruses, belugas, and bears, examine the secrets held in tree rings, and test your observation skills with mineral identification. Then look up and journey beyond our atmosphere by building constellations and exploring the true scale of our inner solar system. It’s an inspiring, curiosity‑fuelled celebration of the natural world, perfect for learners, explorers, and wonder‑seekers of all ages.

Give it a Try SUP Boarding

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Harbourview Park

Dip your paddle into the world of stand‑up paddle boarding with Give It a Try SUP Boarding — a welcoming, beginner‑friendly experience offered throughout the day at Harbourview Park. Guests can enjoy a complimentary 30‑minute rental from Little Ed’s Harbourview Rentals, making it easy to step onto a board for the first time or brush up on basic skills in the calm harbour waters. It’s an easy, accessible way to explore the shoreline, enjoy the festival atmosphere, and discover why SUP has become one of Collingwood’s favourite ways to get out on the water. Must be 18 or older, or at least 16 with an adult. Some conditions apply.

Bayside Briefings

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

North Hurontario

Explore a series of engaging booths dedicated to environmental stewardship, water safety, and community wellness. Stationed throughout the festival, these interactive displays offer insights into the health of our watershed, shoreline, and natural landscapes, along with the initiatives that help protect them. Visitors can learn about habitat restoration, water quality monitoring, conservation practices, and the many ways individuals and communities contribute to a thriving environment. Curious minds are encouraged to stop by, ask questions, and discover meaningful work happening across the region — all in celebration of life in, on, and around the water.

1. Georgian Bay Forever

2. NVCA

3. Blue Mountain Watershed Trust

4. Escarpment Corridor Alliance

5. Swim Safe

Colours by the Bay

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Waterfront Promenade

Add a splash of colour to your experience at Colours by the Bay — a cheerful stop along the Waterfront Promenade offering fun, festival‑ready temporary tattoos. Skilled staff will be on hand throughout the day applying playful designs, bold patterns, and imaginative characters, all using safe, skin‑friendly materials suitable for all ages. It’s a bright, easy way to add a touch of artistry to your day on the harbour and a perfect stop for the whole family.

Dockside Delights

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

North Hurontario

Sip, savour, and soak up the waterfront atmosphere with a refreshing drink and a mouth‑watering selection of eats along North Hurontario. This lively dockside hub offers festival‑goers a place to relax, recharge, and enjoy great flavours while taking in the sights and sounds of the harbour. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite, settling in with a cold beverage, or exploring the promenade between activities, it’s an easy, welcoming stop that adds a delicious boost to your Sidelaunch Days experience.

1. Bedward Jerk House

2. Brightside Deli

3. Brunello

4. P.S. Bakery

5. Side Launch Brewing Co.

6. Charters Bar & Ice Cream

Ripples & Roar

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Launch Basin

Make a splash with Ripples & Roar — a lively chance to experience Collingwood’s own dragon boat community, the Collingwood Sidelaunchers, up close on the harbour. Guests of all ages are invited to climb aboard for a fun, beginner‑friendly paddle that celebrates teamwork and rhythm. No experience is needed; simply bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to paddle alongside others as you learn the basics of stroke timing and boat movement. Friendly members of the Collingwood Paddling Club will guide you through the experience, helping you settle in, find your pace, and enjoy the thrill of moving together across the basin.

Canadian Ocean Racing

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Heritage Drive - Wave Break

Get an up‑close look at one of the world’s most advanced offshore racing yachts as EMIRA IV arrives in Collingwood Harbour. This next‑generation foiling IMOCA 60 has circled the globe, set records, and championed sustainable innovation — all while supporting a mission to raise awareness about global water challenges. Visitors can view the yacht from shore and meet members of Canada Ocean Racing throughout the day to learn about life at sea, the team’s Be Water Positive initiative, and Scott Shawyer’s journey toward the solo, nonstop Vendée Globe race.

Dry Dock Discovery Walk

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Side Launch Way

Follow a curated trail of heritage signs that trace Collingwood’s rich shipbuilding history from the Launch Basin to Dry Dock Junction Park. Along the route, nine interpretive displays share stories, photos, and milestones from the community’s maritime past, guiding visitors through decades of craftsmanship, innovation, and waterfront culture. It’s an easy, self‑guided walk that connects festival‑goers with the legacy of the Shipyards while leading them to one of Collingwood’s newest parks.

Poetry on the Pier

10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

North Hurontario St.

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.

SUP Races

11:00 AM — Technical & Recreational Races; 1:00 PM — Kids Races; 2:30 PM — Sprint Races

Launch Basin

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.

Register

All Aboard the Playfair!

11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Launch Basin

Climb aboard a towering tall ship and step into the age of sail as this hand‑crafted brigantine opens its decks for exploration throughout the afternoon. Visitors can wander the vessel, meet the crew, and learn about life at sea — from navigation and teamwork to the traditions that shaped historic sailing ships. It’s an unforgettable chance to experience maritime history up close, right in Collingwood Harbour, offering sea lovers of all ages a rare glimpse into the world of tall‑ship adventure.

Turntables & Tides

12:00 – 4:00 PM

Collingwood Charters Huronic

Feel the rhythm roll in as a live DJ transforms the docked Huronic into a floating soundstage. Smooth daytime grooves, upbeat harbour vibes, and sun‑soaked energy set the tone as music drifts across the water and through the festival. Whether you’re passing by, settling in along the promenade, or taking in the views from the basin, these sets bring a lively soundtrack to the day. 

eFOIL and Pump Foil Demonstrations

1:30 PM

Launch Basin

Prepare to be amazed as eFOIL and pump‑foil riders bring cutting‑edge excitement to the Launch Basin. These innovative boards lift riders above the water’s surface, creating the striking illusion of flying while showcasing balance, athleticism, and pure summertime fun. Skilled riders will demonstrate how electric‑powered foils and human‑powered pump boards glide, rise, and carve across the harbour with effortless motion. It’s a must‑see waterfront demonstration that blends innovation, performance, and the thrill of flight over the bay — a perfect addition to the festival’s celebration of activity on the water. Sponsored by Blu Wave Board Co.

Strange Potatoes 

6:00 PM

Shipyards Amphitheatre

Strange Potatoes are a South Georgian Bay acoustic party band known for high‑energy shows, sharp musicianship, and a crowd‑connecting sense of humour. For more than 25 years, Derek McLean, John Eaton, and John Miller have led a wildly interactive, all‑request experience that blends Celtic, folk, rock, pop, and country. Joined by drummer‑vocalist Jenna Applewhaite and percussionist Alan Pratt, the band will perform a tribute to their most requested songs, celebrating decades of performances across Ontario as one of the region’s most reliably unforgettable live acts.

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Freedom Train

7:00 PM

Shipyards Amphitheatre

Freedom Train is a Canadian trio known for bringing iconic songs to life with the intensity, precision, and spirit of true live performance—no backing tracks, no autotune, just seasoned musicians delivering classics as they were meant to be heard. Led by vocalist‑bassist Carl Jennings, alongside dynamic drummer‑vocalist Tim Jennings and in‑demand guitarist Matt Gormley, the band performs more than 150 shows annually across Canada and the U.S., igniting stages from Massey Hall to the MGM Grand with faithful musicianship and undeniable chemistry.

Freedom Train

Sunday, August 9

Big Canoe

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Launch Basin

Set out on a waterfront adventure with Big Canoe — a community‑powered paddle that offers guests a fresh perspective on Collingwood’s harbour. This impressive voyageur‑style canoe seats up to 15 paddlers, making it a perfect experience for families, groups of friends, and anyone curious about exploring the water together. No experience is needed to climb aboard, and each outing is guided by members of the Big Canoe Project — a non‑profit, social enterprise dedicated to getting people into action on the water. Along the way, you’ll learn how paddling can inspire active living, strengthen community connections, and support the long‑term health of Georgian Bay. Open to all ages.

Give it a Try SUP Boarding

10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Harbourview Park

Dip your paddle into the world of stand‑up paddle boarding with Give It a Try SUP Boarding — a welcoming, beginner‑friendly experience offered throughout the day at Harbourview Park. Guests can enjoy a complimentary 30‑minute rental from Little Ed’s Harbourview Rentals, making it easy to step onto a board for the first time or brush up on basic skills in the calm harbour waters. It’s an easy, accessible way to explore the shoreline, enjoy the festival atmosphere, and discover why SUP has become one of Collingwood’s favourite ways to get out on the water. Must be 18 or older, or at least 16 with an adult. Some conditions apply.

Harbour Clean-up

10:00 AM | Pre-Registration: 9:45 AM

Launch Basin

Make a meaningful splash at the Harbour Clean‑up — a hands‑on paddling event that invites the community to help keep Collingwood’s waterfront healthy and beautiful. Led by Blu Wave Board Co., participants can bring their own board or contact Blu Wave to reserve a demo or rental for the morning. Canoes, kayaks, and SUPs are all welcome, making it easy for families, friends, and even four‑legged companions to join the effort. As you paddle through the harbour collecting debris, you’ll be contributing directly to shoreline stewardship while enjoying time on the water. This free event also supports Georgian Bay Forever, with on‑site donations helping fund vital environmental protection initiatives. Pre‑registration begins at 9:45 a.m., with the clean‑up launching at 10:00 a.m. A simple, active way to make a positive difference.

Register

eFOIL and Pump Foil Demonstrations

11:30 AM - eFoil; 2:00 PM - Pump Foil

Launch Basin

Prepare to be amazed as eFOIL and pump‑foil riders bring cutting‑edge excitement to the Launch Basin. These innovative boards lift riders above the water’s surface, creating the striking illusion of flying while showcasing balance, athleticism, and pure summertime fun. Skilled riders will demonstrate how electric‑powered foils and human‑powered pump boards glide, rise, and carve across the harbour with effortless motion. It’s a must‑see waterfront demonstration that blends innovation, performance, and the thrill of flight over the bay — a perfect addition to the festival’s celebration of activity on the water. Sponsored by Blu Wave Board Co.

All Aboard the Playfair!

11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Launch Basin

Climb aboard a towering tall ship and step into the age of sail as this hand‑crafted brigantine opens its decks for exploration throughout the afternoon. Visitors can wander the vessel, meet the crew, and learn about life at sea — from navigation and teamwork to the traditions that shaped historic sailing ships. It’s an unforgettable chance to experience maritime history up close, right in Collingwood Harbour, offering sea lovers of all ages a rare glimpse into the world of tall‑ship adventure.

Blu Wave Try-it-on

12:00 PM

Launch Basin

A hands‑on opportunity to explore stand‑up paddle boarding. Blu Wave Board Co. will be on site with a selection of boards for guests to try, including the impressive Blu Whale, a six‑person SUP designed for group paddling and big‑water fun. Whether you’re stepping onto a board for the first time or looking to test out different styles, friendly staff will help you get comfortable and confident on the water. It’s an easy, welcoming way to experience SUP and enjoy the festival’s lively waterfront atmosphere. All ages and abilities encouraged to give it a go.

Why the name you might ask? The Sidelaunch Days Festival was named in honour of Collingwood’s shipbuilding heritage and the unique method of launching ships at The Collingwood Shipyards. Learn more by visiting the Collingwood Museum at 45 St. Paul Street.