Father’s Day is almost here, and it is the perfect time to celebrate the dads in our lives with thoughtful experiences, great food, and quality time right here in Southern Georgian Bay.

Whether your dad enjoys the outdoors, local flavours, or simple family moments, our region offers endless ways to make the day special.

Hit the Trails or Water

Get out and explore the natural beauty of the area:

• Walk or bike the Georgian Trail, which stretches from Collingwood to Meaford along scenic shoreline vistas.
• Rent kayaks or paddleboards on Georgian Bay, or take a more relaxed paddle along the Beaver River.
• For dads who love fishing, consider a charter out of Thornbury or Meaford and enjoy a morning on the water.

Sip Local Craft Brews and Ciders

Raise a glass to Dad with some of the best local brews and ciders:

• Collingwood Brewery
  
• Side Launch Brewing
  
• Thornbury Craft Cider & Beer
  
• Spy Cider House and Distillery  in Clarksburg

Most offer flights and outdoor seating, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Fire Up the Grill

A backyard barbecue never goes out of style. Pick up great ingredients at:

• Curries Farm Market in Collingwood
• Goldsmith’s Market in Thornbury

Pair your grill favourites with local craft beverages and enjoy a casual evening with family.

Explore Local Father’s Day Events

The weekend is full of opportunities to celebrate:

• Visit a Collingwood car show or downtown event.
• Catch live music at Blue Mountain Village.
• Browse local farmers’ markets for fresh produce and treats.
  
  

Make It a Quality Family Day

Simple family moments are often the most memorable:

• Pack a picnic for Memorial Park Beach in Meaford or Sunset Point Park in Collingwood.
• Spend an afternoon at Blue Mountain Village with activities like mini golf, the ridge runner, shopping, and dining.
• Take a scenic drive through the Beaver Valley, stopping for ice cream along the way.

The Gift of Time

We believe the greatest gift you can give is your time. Whether you are planning an adventure or a quiet afternoon at home, celebrating your dad, or any father figure in your life, makes Father’s Day truly meaningful.

Happy Father’s Day to all the dads in our Southern Georgian Bay community.

Fruit & Feta Checkerboard Appetizers
A Fresh, Fun Bite for Summer Entertaining

Sometimes the simplest ideas make the biggest impression. These Fruit & Feta Checkerboard Appetizers are as fun to look at as they are to eat, and they make a perfect addition to any summer gathering.

With sweet, juicy fruit, salty feta, and a touch of mint, they strike the right balance of flavour and elegance. Plus, they are easy to prepare ahead of time, so you can enjoy the party.

Ingredients

• 1 cup seedless watermelon, cut into small cubes
• 1 cup cantaloupe or honeydew melon, cut into small cubes
• 1 cup feta cheese, cut into small cubes (choose a firm block feta, not crumbled)
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
• Toothpicks or small skewers

Optional for serving:

• Drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze
• Cracked black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients
   Cut the fruit and feta into uniform cubes, roughly ¾ inch in size. The goal is to have them as close in size as possible so they fit together neatly.
2. Assemble the checkerboard
   On a serving platter or board, arrange the cubes in a checkerboard pattern: alternate watermelon, feta, cantaloupe, and repeat. You can make a simple 3×3 or 4×4 square, or get creative with your pattern.
3. Garnish
   Tuck fresh mint leaves between or on top of the squares for a pop of colour and freshness.
4. Serve
   Offer small forks, toothpicks, or skewers so guests can easily pick up individual bites. Optionally, drizzle lightly with honey or balsamic glaze and finish with a few grinds of black pepper for a sophisticated touch.

Tips

• For an extra layer of flavour, sprinkle the fruit lightly with flaky sea salt just before serving.
• This appetizer pairs beautifully with crisp white wine or sparkling water.
• Try variations with blueberries, kiwi, or mango for even more colour and flavour combinations.

Why We Love It

Checkerboard appetizers are a conversation starter and bring a fun, visual element to your table. They work equally well for casual picnics, brunches, or more formal summer gatherings. The combination of sweet fruit, salty feta, and refreshing mint is always a hit.

Sometimes the simplest ideas make the biggest impression. These Fruit & Feta Checkerboard Appetizers are as fun to look at as they are to eat, and they make a perfect addition to any summer gathering.

With sweet, juicy fruit, salty feta, and a touch of mint, they strike the right balance of flavour and elegance. Plus, they are easy to prepare ahead of time, so you can enjoy the party.

Where to Find the Best Local Flavours This Season

One of the true pleasures of summer in Southern Georgian Bay is visiting our local farmers’ markets. Whether you are shopping for fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, or just looking to soak in the community vibe, these markets are well worth the trip.

Here is a roundup of some of our favourite farmers’ markets across the region:

Collingwood Farmers’ Market
Saturdays, 8 AM to 1 PM
Collingwood Downtown
Held right in the heart of downtown, this market is a local favourite. You will find everything from seasonal fruits and vegetables to flowers, preserves, and handcrafted goods. It is a great way to start your weekend and explore the shops and cafes nearby.

Thornbury Farmers’ Market
Sundays, 11 AM to 2 PM
Thornbury Farmers’ Market (check Explore Blue for seasonal updates)
Set against the charming backdrop of Thornbury, this market focuses on local and sustainable vendors. Expect fresh produce, meats, breads, and unique artisan products.

Meaford Farmers’ Market
Fridays, 3 PM to 7 PM
Meaford Farmers’ Market
Located near the waterfront, the Meaford market is a great spot for an afternoon visit. It features a wide range of farm-fresh offerings plus live music and prepared foods—perfect for a casual Friday evening.

Owen Sound Farmers’ Market
Saturdays, 8 AM to 12:30 PM
Owen Sound Farmers’ Market
One of the oldest markets in the region, it offers a rich selection of local meats, cheeses, breads, and produce. Many local chefs and foodies shop here for ingredients.

Creemore Farmers’ Market
Saturdays, 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Creemore Farmers’ Market
A small but vibrant market with a community feel. In addition to produce, you will find local maple syrup, handmade crafts, and beautiful flowers.

Why Visit Local Markets?

• Support small farmers and artisans in our region
• Enjoy the freshest produce of the season
• Discover new foods and flavours
• Connect with your community
• Reduce your environmental footprint by shopping local

A Few Tips

• Bring cash, though many vendors now accept cards.
• Arrive early for the best selection.
• Bring your own bags and baskets.
• Take your time—markets are about the experience as much as the shopping.

Southern Georgian Bay is rich with local food and talented producers. This summer, make a point of exploring a new market or returning to a favourite one. You never know what delicious surprises you might find.

During a recent family trip to San Pancho, Mexico, we stumbled into a little seaside restaurant on our first night called San Pancho Marino. What we thought would be a simple dinner turned into something unforgettable. We were treated to a fantastic meal and warm conversation with the owner, Rolondo; a gracious host with stories as rich as the food he served.

Before the night ended, Rolondo invited us to join him the next morning on his fishing boat. It turned out to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience: we fished, explored the coastline, and even spotted humpback whales gliding through the ocean. To top it all off, he prepared us a fresh lunch on board, including the best ceviche we’ve had in years.

This recipe is inspired by that day; sun, salt air, and the kind of generosity that stays with you.

Ingredients 

• 1 lb medium shrimp, (raw), thawed, peeled, deveined, and diced
• 1 cup lime juice, from 6 limes
• 1 cup lemon juice, from 2 limes
• 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
• 2 avocados
• 3 roma tomatoes, diced
• 1 red onion, diced
• 1/4 bunch cilantro, chopped
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced

Options To Serve:

• 16 Tostadas , (or tortilla chips)
• Hot Sauce, (Tabasco or Cholula)

Instructions

• Prep the Shrimp: Rinse the thawed shrimp under cold running water and thoroughly squeeze or pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture so your cocktail isn’t watered down. 
• Marinate Shrimp: Dice shrimp and place it into a large glass (non-reactive) bowl. Use a citrus squeezer to get 1 to 1 1/4 cups lime juice from 6 limes over shrimp. Stir to combine then cover and marinate in the refrigerator (marinate 1 1/2 to 2 hours for raw shrimp or until no longer translucent), stirring halfway through.
• Chop the vegetables: cucumber, avocado, tomatoes, red onion, jalapeno, and cilantro. A food chopper will make this process much faster.
• Combine: When shrimp are done marinating, add vegetables to the bowl and stir to combine. Serve with hot sauce if desired along with tortilla chips or over tostadas.

There’s something special about spring in Southern Georgian Bay—the longer days, the fresh breezes off the bay, and the irresistible pull to get our hands a little dirty. Whether you’re planting a new vegetable garden, refreshing your backyard oasis, or simply picking up a few pots for the patio, these local garden centres are brimming with inspiration (and expert advice!) to help you get growing.

Here are 8 garden centres you’ll want to visit this season:

1. Grey Heron Garden Centre — Meaford

A thoughtfully curated garden centre with deep local roots, Grey Heron offers a wide selection of outdoor flowers, foliage, trees, annuals, perennials, edibles, soil, mulch, compost, and gardening tools. Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, it’s a haven for gardeners seeking quality plants and expert advice. ​

Address: 206709 ON-26, Meaford, ON N4L 1W7

Phone: (519) 538-3145

https://www.greyheron.ca

2. Goldsmith’s Orchard Market — Thornbury

While Goldsmith’s is famous for its produce market, their seasonal garden centre is equally impressive. Look for vibrant flowers, organic herbs, and specialty garden goods you won’t find at big-box stores—all just minutes from downtown Thornbury.

Address: 207600 ON-26, Thornbury, ON N0H 2P0

Phone: (519) 599-3246

https://goldsmithsmarket.com

3. Riverside Greenhouses — Clarksburg

Nestled along the Beaver River, Riverside Greenhouses is a peaceful spot to find everything from vegetable starters to ornamental grasses. Their greenhouse-grown flowers are especially gorgeous—and their knowledgeable staff can help with design ideas for any space.

Address: 727266 Sideroad 22C, Heathcote, ON N0H 1J0

Phone: (519) 599-3533

https://riversidegreenhouses.ca

4. Sideroad Farm — Walter’s Falls

Not your typical garden centre, but worth the drive! Sideroad Farm offers organic seedlings, herbs, and flowers grown with care on their farm. If you’re focused on sustainability and growing your own food, this is a must-visit.

Address: 805092 Sideroad 25 RR3, Markdale, ON N0C 1H0

Phone: (519) 377-6673

https://sideroadfarm.com/

8. Greentree Gardens & Emporium — Collingwood

Situated at 11555 Hwy 26 in Collingwood, Greentree Gardens & Emporium is a cherished local destination for gardening enthusiasts. This garden centre offers a diverse selection of plants, flowers, and artisanal goods, providing a serene shopping experience for those looking to add a touch of nature to their homes.

Address: 11555 ON-26, Collingwood, ON L9Y 5E7

Phone: (705) 444-2146

Tips for a Successful Garden Centre Visit:

• Go early in the season for the best selection.
• Ask questions—local staff know what grows best here!
• Bring measurements or photos if you’re planning pots or landscaping.
• Shop with an open mind—sometimes the best finds are the unexpected ones.

Bottom Line:
Supporting local garden centres not only brings beauty to your home—it helps keep our community vibrant and connected. So grab your sunhat, pack the kids or a friend, and make a day of it.
Happy planting!

Spring has officially arrived in Southern Georgian Bay, and with it, a refreshing sense of movement in the local real estate market.

After a quieter winter, more listings are coming online, and buyers are starting to re-engage — especially for well-priced homes in Collingwood, Thornbury, and The Blue Mountains. That said, it’s not a frenzy: today’s buyers are thoughtful, often taking time for financing and inspections, making the process feel more balanced than it has in years.

Pricing is holding steady. Sellers who take the time to present and price their homes carefully are still seeing good results — while buyers have a bit more breathing room to find the right fit.

Many are keeping an eye on interest rates, too. If the Bank of Canada makes the expected rate cut in June, we could see an extra boost in activity heading into summer.

Bottom Line:
The energy is shifting — slowly but surely — toward opportunity. Whether you’re buying or selling, a little preparation today could set you up beautifully for the season ahead.

Spring is in full swing, and there’s no better time to explore the natural beauty surrounding Collingwood and Thornbury. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful forest walk, a challenging hike, or a scenic trail with breathtaking views, Southern Georgian Bay offers a variety of options to suit every adventurer.​

Here are some must-visit trails to consider for your next weekend wander:

1. Georgian Trail (Collingwood to Meaford)

Stretching 34 km along the former railway line, the Georgian Trail offers a flat, hard-packed surface ideal for walking, cycling, and jogging. The trail connects Collingwood to Meaford, passing through Thornbury, with picturesque views of Georgian Bay and the surrounding countryside. ​Great Lakes Waterfront Trail+1Tripadvisor+1

2. Loree Forest Loop Trail

Located near Thornbury, this 5 km loop trail winds through a serene forest, leading to a scenic viewpoint overlooking Georgian Bay. It’s a relatively easy hike, making it perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll. ​Ontario Hiking

️ 3. Scenic Caves Nature Adventures

Situated atop the Niagara Escarpment in Collingwood, Scenic Caves Nature Adventures offers over 15 km of trails through ancient forests, caves, and crevices. Don’t miss the suspension bridge, which provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area. ​Pinterest+2Scenic Caves+2Scenic Caves+2Scenic Caves

4. George Christie Nature Trails

These trails in Collingwood offer a network of paths through diverse landscapes, including forests and open meadows. Suitable for all skill levels, the trails are well-maintained and provide a peaceful escape into nature. ​

5. Bruce Trail – Beaver Valley Section

The Bruce Trail is Canada’s oldest and longest marked footpath, and the Beaver Valley section near Thornbury offers some of its most scenic stretches. Expect rolling hills, dense forests, and occasional waterfalls along this part of the trail. ​thebluemountains.ca+1Ontario Nature Trails+1

6. Peasemarsh Nature Preserve

Located near Thornbury, Peasemarsh offers a tranquil setting with trails that meander through wetlands and forests. It’s a great spot for birdwatching and enjoying the local flora and fauna. ​AllTrails.com+1Tripadvisor+1

7. Blue Mountain Resort Hiking Trails

Beyond skiing, Blue Mountain Resort boasts over 25 km of hiking trails that cater to various skill levels. Trails offer diverse terrains and lead to breathtaking vistas of the Niagara Escarpment and Georgian Bay. ​Blue Mountain Resortthebluemountains.ca+1Blue Mountain Resort+1

️ 8. Craigleith Provincial Park Trails

This park near Blue Mountain offers short trails that are perfect for a quick nature walk. The trails provide access to the shoreline of Georgian Bay, where you can enjoy the unique shale rock formations and panoramic water views.​

Tips for Your Trail Adventures:

• Plan Ahead: Check trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out.
• Stay Safe: Wear appropriate footwear and bring water, especially for longer hikes.
• Respect Nature: Stay on marked trails and carry out all trash.
• Wildlife Awareness: Be mindful of local wildlife and maintain a safe distance.