With more visitors each year, Peak to Shore has become an important source of exposure for new Canadian talent. “It’s a great platform for new and local artists”, says Chris Scerri, the festival’s program director. “Some of these musicians just starting out are going to be on the scene for a long time. They’re going to create some of those, ‘I saw them before anyone knew who they were!’ moments for our guests, which is really exciting.”
The Lineup
Headlining the festival is east coast icon Séan McCann of Great Big Sea, Saturday night at Blue Mountain Village. Featured Venue Artists include: Irish Mythen at Meaford Hall, Luke McMaster at Blue, King Cuddy at Bruce Wine Bar, The Harpoonists and the Axe Murderer at Blue, Ethan Paxton & The Brakeman at the new CROW Bar & Variety, and Devon Cuddy Band at the spectacular Shipyards amphitheater overlooking the Collingwood Harbour. Plus dozens more concerts and open mics all week throughout the region. While the vast majority of the shows are free, dinner reservations are recommended at several venues and advance tickets are available for Meaford Hall and Simcoe St. Theatre concerts.
Peak to Shore is a favourite not only of the festival-goers and musicians, but of the venue owners as well, and has led to more live music spots popping up in the area. Steven Vipond, co-owner of Bruce Wine Bar, a popular spot for great food and great live music in Thornbury, says the growth of the music culture in the region has helped fuel the growth of his business. “Music has become so woven into the fabric of the area.” says Vipond. “There are so many great musicians that attract so many music lovers, we’re opening CROW, a second dining and music venue in Collingwood in time for the festival. Music has created the demand, and we’re happy to meet it.”
Another great aspect of the festival is just how much there is to do beyond the music. The Southern Georgian Bay region is a summer playground. Anchored by Blue Mountain Village, there are fantastic shops and restaurants and a host of outdoor activities and adventures for the whole family. And this is no “pitch-your-tent-in-the-mud” music fest. The area boasts a range of accommodations, including luxury suites with spa amenities. Visit BlueMountain.ca and use the promo code PEAK2SHORE to save 40% off three nights or more in a Village suite when you book by May 18th.
Peak to Shore Music Fest is music and nature at its best. A not-to-be-missed cultural adventure, and an amazing showcase of what music means to the Southern Georgian Bay region. For more information and complete concert listings, visit www.PeaktoShore.ca.
