Simcoe County is calling, and its craft beverage producers are bringing all the holiday cheer (with a splash of beer, wine, cider, and spirits)! Whether you’re looking for festive events, cozy atmospheres, unique gift ideas, or new brews to try, this region is the ultimate destination for holiday sips and seasonal vibes. With over 27 craft beverage producers in the area (and county) you’ll find holiday tipples to tease any palette. So let’s dive into a little magic!
Festive Events to Raise Your Glass To
Simcoe County knows how to throw a holiday party, and the craft beverage scene has a packed schedule to keep you entertained! Ready to make the most of your holiday season and sip on some amazing wines and craft beers? Check out these events.
Tree Lighting at Quayle’s Brewery
Where: Quayle’s Brewing Company, 4567 Line 12 N, Coldwater, ON (View Map)
When: November 30th, 2024
This Feast On® certified craft brewery is all about the holiday magic. Watch the Beer Garden transform into a winter wonderland with 50 dazzling trees. Vote for your favourite, sip on holiday brews, and support the Orillia Soldiers Memorial Hospital Foundation. Bonus: you could win a $50 gift card! Want to visit even earlier? No worries! Check out the Quayle’s Holiday Market November 23rd and 24th as well. While you’re there, grab a pint of Last Tree on the Lot— a biere de Noel with notes of orange and baking spice!
Dec. 1: Holiday Cheer at Windrush Estate Winery
Where: Windrush Estate Winery, 3100 Concession Rd 3 Adjala, Palgrave, ON (View Map)
When: December 1st, 2024
Indulge in award-winning wines, seasonal treats, and live music with operatic flair. This $45 event includes a concert and reception—perfect for feeling fancy while sipping that festive “Cup of Good Cheer.” Join opera star Hillary Tufford and pianist Connor O’Kane for a delightful afternoon of sipping and savouring great tunes. Before you go, don’t forget to grab a few bottles to bring home for the holiday season!
Dec. 21: Ugly Christmas Sweater Party at Side Launch Brewing Co.
Where: Side Launch Brewing Co., 200 Mountain Rd Unit 1, Collingwood, ON (View Map)
When: December 21st, 2024
Grab your ugliest sweater and get ready to dance, laugh, and toast to the season with Side Launch’s freshest brews. Also on that day is the Santa Claus Beer Olympics where folks can dress up as Santa and take part in a number of challenges to be the jolliest Santa on the block while the ugly sweater crew cheers them on. If zany fun is right up your alley, this is for you.
Notable Ongoing Events Through Out the Festive Season
Looking for a few drop-in style events to make the season merry and bright? Check out these:
- Open Mic Nights at the Collingwood Brewery
- Beer + Cheese Pairing Nights (need we say more?) at TEST BATCHES
Cozy Atmospheres for Maximum Festive Feels
There’s nothing like sipping your favourite drink in a warm, welcoming spot decked out for the holidays. While there are epic craft beverage spots across Simcoe County, these ones really take the cake (or the pint, if you will). We recommend donning your coziest wool sweater, grabbing your besties and heading out for a few drinks to ring in the season. Here are a few spots to get you started.
Creemore Springs:
Where: Creemore Springs, 139 Mill St, Creemore, ON (View Map)
Nestled into the adorable town of Creemore, Creemore Springs brewery is crafting beer you’ve likely tried before but not like this. Cuddle up with friends or your sweetheart on cozy couches around an open flame. The patio here leaves little to desire as you sip and savour craft beer around a fire and kick back on the streets of this charming town. Open year-round, there’s not reason to head inside as the temps dip!
Woodfolk Cider
Where: Woodfolk Cider, 1151 Warminster Sideroad, Coldwater, ON (View Map)
Warm, mulled cider? Check. Bonfire? Check. This rustic winter experience is a must try and as a fairly new kid on the block you should definitely check it out. While they’re closed for November, they’ll be re-opening in December with some great tastings on deck to boot.
Test Batches Brewery
Where: Test Batches, 476 Hugel Ave, Midland, ON (View Map)
You’ll feel like you walked onto the set of The Holiday (ok, sorry, Jude Law may not be there) when you go for a drink at Test Batches Brewery. Decked out for the holiday season, enjoy winter cottage vibes with decorations galore for the ultimate festive ambience. Cheers to that! While you’re there, grab a few sharing plates like their pretzel bites and beer cheese dips (classic), buffalo chicken flatbread or treat bundles complete with homemade sponge toffee!
Gift Ideas for Your Favourite Beverage Enthusiasts
Stuck on what to gift this season? Simcoe County’s craft producers have you covered. Stuff stockings with care, help your giftee unwind with wine and cheers to craft beers.
For the Wine Lover: A Private Tasting + Vineyard Walk
Where: Creemore Hills Winery, 2607 Concession Rd 5, Creemore, ON (View Map)
Book
Book a private tasting at Creemore Hills Winery. The one on your list will get to enjoy a vineyard walk, stunning views, and delicious wine—it’s the gift of experience. This behind-the-scenes look is a great gift for all wine lovers.
To note: This spot is by appointment only so you must call ahead.
For the Spirits Fan:
Where: Georgian Bay Spirits Co., 395 Raglan St Unit 2-D, Collingwood, ON (View Map)
Starting November 21st, you can pick up an exclusive sip for the one on your list (or yourself, we won’t tell)! Georgian Bay Spirits Co. is offering three limited-edition holiday liqueurs including Spiked Eggnog Liqueur, Caramel Coffee Cream Liqueur (hello, Christmas morning) and Maple Canadian Whisky Liqueur in collaboration with the foks at The Roost. Only available at the retail store, these little numbers aren’t just perfect for gifting, they’re great for spicing up any holiday party!
For the Craft Beer Buff:
Two options avail at the top of our craft beer list this holiday season. For those wanting a little variety, Creemore Springs’ Holiday Six Pack is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It also happens to be available at the LCBO for those unable to make it to Simcoe County (though that woul d be a shame).
Test Batches as a variety of gifts perfect for the foodie on your list including holiday cookies, gift and treat baskets and of course, gift cards to the brewery!
New Brews You Don’t Want to Miss
What’s a holiday season without trying something new? There’s something we love oh-so-much trying new creations made by distillers, cider makers brewers and more during the holiday season. Here are a few we’re particularly stoked about this year.
Ursa Major West Coast IPA
Where: Black Bellows Brewing, 40 Simcoe St, Collingwood, ON (View Map)
Why: Located in downtown Collingwood, Black Bellows is not afraid of a challenge. This citrusy number isn’t an easy brew to pull off and yet it delivers a festive, slightly bitter punch. The citrusy Ursa Major West Coast IPA delivers a bitter, festive punch. We recommend pairing it up on-site with their Holiday Burger featuring a ground turkey patty, cheddar cheese, deep fried stuffing (yes please), apple and cranberry chutney all topped with turkey gravy.
Creemore Light
Where: Creemore Springs, 139 Mill St, Creemore, ON (View Map)
Why: Having launched earlier in November, this is the ideal beer for a post-dinner sip. After all those holiday eats and treats, you’re going to want something light to reach for and this bad boy is just the ticket.
Brewer’s Series Red Ale
Where: Side Launch Brewing Co., 200 Mountain Rd Unit 1, Collingwood, ON (View Map)
Why: Cold winter nights be damned! This saucy little red ale is bold and in your face while providing the perfect warmth for winter nights. Chef’s kiss.
Pecan Pie Porter
Where: Test Batches, 476 Hugel Ave, Midland, ON (View Map)
Why: Common, how could this not make the list? A dessert porter in pie variety no less? This smooth and cozy beer is perfect for pairing but if you prefer something slightly more traditional, try their ever-popular Blonde Ale.
Paws & Effect
Where: Northwinds Brewery, 180 Jozo Weider Blvd, The Blue Mountains, ON (View Map)
Why: As if you needed more reasons to enjoy craft beer! This limited edition brew is al about supporting local animals in need. Proceeds from every single can go to provide essential care for animals in the Blue Mountain community- pretty cool, eh?
Festbier
Where: Collingwood Brewery, 10 Sandford Fleming Dr, Collingwood, ON (View Map)
Why: The subtle spice from the hops and malty characteristics make this beer a no-brainer for chillier dates. Brand new to the brewery, it’s a must-try!
Make it an Experience
For those who want more than just a drink, Simcoe County offers unforgettable craft beverage adventures. Take your beverage love to the next level with these experiences.
The Collingwood Craft Beverage Passport
The Collingwood Craft Beverage Passport is made up of 7 stops beverage enthusiasts can check out on a self-guided tour. Start by picking up your passport at any one of the participating locations then get them stamped as you visit! There’s a mix of spirits and beer stops so follow your heart.
Whether you check them out by foot, by bike or with the help of a designated driver you can spread your adventure out over a short or longer period of time. Collect stamps at least five spots on your passport and submit by November 30th to be entered for a chance to win some epic prizes. Get all the details.
The Brew Bus
No designated driver? That’s no problem with the Brew Bus. Gather your friends for a private tour of Simcoe County’s best craft beverage producers as the folks on the Brew Bus take you from stop to stop. You’ll get to experience the magic of the region while sipping on a true taste of place. Book now.
Coming Soon
Once the snow flies and the weather permits, you can also enjoy some delightful winter activities in Simcoe County at local beverage producers. Quayle’s and Duntroon Cyder House (both Feast On® certified stops) are offering great winter programming including:
- Skating, sleigh rides and fireside tastings at Quayle’s Brewing Company
- Snowshoeing paired with craft cyder at Duntroon Cyder House
Wrap It Up with Holiday Cheer
Whether you’re sipping mulled cider by a fire, exploring a magical beer garden, or hunting for the perfect craft gift, Simcoe County is the place to soak up the holiday spirit this season. Bring your friends, your family, or just yourself—and toast to a festive, flavourful, and fun-filled holiday season.
Cheers to that!