The Blue Mountain and Collingwood area has developed a thriving craft beer scene that peaks during the autumn months with Oktoberfest celebrations, harvest festivals, and brewery events. Whether you are a craft beer enthusiast or simply enjoy a cold pint, the fall beer culture here is worth building a trip around.
The Craft Beer Scene
Grey County and Simcoe County have seen a remarkable growth in craft brewing over the past decade. The area now boasts multiple independent breweries, each with distinct character, brewing styles, and taproom experiences.
Side Launch Brewing Company
Side Launch is Collingwood's original craft brewery and has become a regional institution. Named after the unique side-launching shipbuilding tradition of Collingwood's harbour, the brewery produces a range of beers that have won national recognition.
Must-Try Beers: - Mountain Lager — A crisp, refreshing lager that is their most popular offering - Dark Lager — A darker, more complex lager with roasted notes - Wheat Beer — A Bavarian-style wheat beer, particularly popular in summer
Experience: - Brewery tours available (book in advance) - Spacious taproom with food options - Retail shop for take-home purchases - Located in a renovated industrial building near the harbour
Northwinds Brewing
Located right in Blue Mountain Village, Northwinds offers the convenience of a brewpub within walking distance of the slopes and shops. Their rotating tap list features creative seasonal brews alongside reliable core offerings.
Must-Try Beers: - Check the rotating seasonal selection, as this is where their creativity shines - Flight option lets you sample multiple beers
Creemore Springs Brewery
While technically in the village of Creemore (about 30 minutes south of Blue Mountain), Creemore Springs is a pilgrimage-worthy destination for beer lovers. One of Ontario's first craft breweries, Creemore has been brewing its signature Premium Lager since 1987 in one of Ontario's most charming small towns.
Must-Try Beers: - Creemore Springs Premium Lager — The classic that started it all - urBock — A rich, seasonal bock beer released in fall - Lot 9 Pilsner — A well-crafted German-style pilsner
Experience: - Brewery tours and tastings - Beautiful heritage building - The village of Creemore itself is worth exploring, with shops, galleries, and restaurants - The trip through countryside scenery is gorgeous in fall
The Collingwood Brewery
A newer addition to the local beer scene, The Collingwood Brewery focuses on small-batch, creative brews. Their taproom offers an intimate tasting experience with regularly changing selections.
Oktoberfest Events
Blue Mountain Oktoberfest
Blue Mountain Village typically hosts Oktoberfest celebrations featuring:
- Traditional German beer, food, and music
- Live bands performing polka and traditional Bavarian music
- Bavarian food stalls with pretzels, sausages, and schnitzel
- Stein-holding competitions and other fun activities
- The festive atmosphere of the Village enhanced with Oktoberfest decorations
Check Blue Mountain's event calendar for specific dates, as the celebration typically runs over one or two weekends in late September or early October.
Creemore Oktoberfest
Creemore Springs hosts its own Oktoberfest celebration, which has grown into one of the area's most anticipated fall events. The combination of the charming village setting, excellent beer, and enthusiastic community participation makes it a memorable experience.
Collingwood Craft Beer Festival
The broader Collingwood area hosts craft beer festivals at various times during the warmer months. These events bring together multiple local and regional breweries for tastings, food pairings, and entertainment. Check local event listings for current dates.
Creating Your Own Brewery Tour
One of the best ways to experience the local beer scene is to create your own self-guided brewery tour. Here is a suggested itinerary:
Half-Day Tour
- Start at **Side Launch Brewing** in Collingwood for a tour and tasting (allow 1.5 hours)
- Drive to **Creemore Springs** for a tour and lunch in Creemore village (allow 2 hours)
- Return to Blue Mountain and end at **Northwinds Brewing** in the Village for a final pint
Important Notes on Brewery Touring
- **Designate a driver** or arrange alternative transportation. Several local services offer brewery tour transportation.
- **Pace yourself** — Tasting flights are a better approach than full pints at each stop
- **Eat along the way** — Most taprooms serve food or are near restaurants
- **Buy bottles or cans to take home** — Retail shops at each brewery offer take-away options
Beer and Food Pairings
At the Chalet
Stock your chalet fridge with local craft beers and pair them with dinner:
- **Side Launch Dark Lager** with grilled steak or burgers
- **Creemore Premium Lager** with roasted chicken or fish
- **Wheat Beer** with lighter fare like salads or grilled vegetables
- **Seasonal bock or stout** with hearty fall dishes like stew or chili
At Restaurants
Several area restaurants specialize in pairing local craft beers with their menus. Ask your server for recommendations — the staff at most Collingwood restaurants are knowledgeable about local brews.
Stay at Blue View Chalets
A craft beer trip to Blue Mountain pairs perfectly with a stay at Blue View Chalets. Stock your chalet fridge with take-home purchases from local breweries, enjoy them in the hot tub or around the dining table, and never worry about driving. Our chalets are close enough to Blue Mountain Village that you can walk to Northwinds Brewing for an evening pint and walk back safely. For the Collingwood and Creemore breweries, organize a designated driver rotation or book a local tour service, and make your chalet the comfortable home base for a memorable beer-themed getaway.
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