I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again– the music scene in Southern Georgian Bay is buzzing with creative energy. Every summer, the region comes alive with concerts, festivals, and performances that draw music lovers from near and far. One festival that continues to stand out on the summer lineup is Peak to Shore.
Back for another season, Peak to Shore is set to take over The Blue Mountains from July 2nd to 5th, offering guests the chance to experience a diverse lineup of Canadian artists in a variety of unique venues. From Blue Mountain Village to Thornbury and Clarksburg, the festival not only presents an incredible array of live music but also encourages attendees to explore the communities, businesses, and views that make Southern Georgian Bay such a special place to visit.
“We don’t just offer music; we curate an experience,” says Kerrie Muschalla, BMVA/DMO. “By moving the audience from the orchards of Clarksburg to the bustling Village at Blue and the historic streets of Thornbury, we turn a ‘concert’ into a regional exploration.”
With 12 performances spread across eight unique locations, Peak to Shore encourages festival-goers to venture beyond a single stage, turning the weekend into a musical journey through The Blue Mountains and its surrounding communities.
Thoughtfully curated from start to finish, the festival makes it easy to build an entire weekend around enjoying our little corner of heaven. Whether you’re a local or just in town for the weekend, the festival’s diverse programming means you can curate your own experience, choosing from a variety of genres, artists, and venues throughout the weekend.
The festival gets underway on Thursday, July 2nd, with a pair of performances that set the tone for the weekend ahead. Pop-contemporary artist Kendall Lily will take the Subaru Stage in Blue Mountain Village, while alternative rock band The Lazarettes will bring their energetic sound to Grey & Gold Cider later that evening.
Then we head into the weekend with a packed lineup. Friday evening begins on the Blue Mountain Floating Stage, where Jazz Connexion will bring their smooth, jazz-inspired sound to one of the festival’s most unique venues. Later, make your way to The Corner in Thornbury for Cabin Fever, an alternative folk band whose intimate sound feels right at home in the heart of the village.
Saturday is made for venue hopping. Start the day in Blue Mountain Village with Paris Stanford before heading to Thornbury Craft Co. for an afternoon performance by Jamie Ciotka. In the late afternoon, Drew Wright takes the stage at The Alphorn, offering the perfect soundtrack to dinner.
The day ends with Peak to Shore’s headlining performance in Blue Mountain Village by James Blonde, known for blending rock and pop influences with infectious, dance-worthy energy. Expect singalong moments, plenty of dancing, and the kind of atmosphere that keeps the crowd on its feet long after the first song.
Sunday offers a fitting close to the weekend. Sean McCurley returns audiences to Thornbury Craft Co. before festivalgoers make their way to Georgian Hills Vineyards, where The Cold Flame will provide warm acoustic tunes overlooking the vineyard. From there, it’s back to Blue Mountain Village for pop-folk group 93 North before one final stop.
To close out the festival, head to Spy Cider House & Distillery for a performance by Toronto All-Star Band. Bringing the timeless sound of the Big Band Era to life, the group delivers a high-energy show inspired by the swing music of the 1930s, ’40s, and ’50s. Set against the backdrop of Spy’s sprawling orchard, there may be no better way to end the weekend than with live music, a cider in hand, and the sun setting over the rolling hills of The Blue Mountains.
Not only do you get the chance to enjoy 12 incredible performances, but you’ll also discover some of the area’s best local venues along the way. From cideries and vineyards to village stages and local restaurants, each stop offers its own experience.
According to Muschalla, “this is a celebration of how we live here. It’s a chance to experience the area just as the locals do.”
Peak to Shore is the perfect summer kick-off; you won’t want to miss it. For more information, head to https://exploreblue.ca/events/peaktoshore
Written by Maddy Grasman
