NEWS RELEASE
DOWNTOWN BARRIE BIA
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Downtown Barrie is buzzing with optimism as we kick off 2025.
Building on the momentum of last year, we’re gearing up for another year packed with fun, family-friendly events, and exciting developments.
Explore our thriving downtown: We are excited about the prospective openings of new residences, restaurants, shops and more.
- Over 300 local businesses: Discover a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, cafes, and professional services, all locally owned and operated by your Barrie neighbours.
- New residents and businesses on the horizon: Welcome new restaurants, shops, and residents to the core. The Debut Condos are nearing completion, and exciting developments are underway.
- Knowledge hub emerges: Fall 2025 brings nearly 1,500 students and faculty from Georgian College and Lakehead University’s STEM campus, along with the recent, newly transformed Sandbox Centre fuelling innovation.
Mark your calendars for fun-filled events: We are building on the resounding success of last year, drawing over 350,000 visitors to our downtown.
- Hot Cocoa Trail (February): Warm up with delicious treats and shopping during this winter staple.
- Open Air Dunlop (summer): Kick off the summer with the Barrie Airshow (June 6 to 8), the beloved Butter Tart Festival (July 12), and the Lawnchair Luminata Outdoor Movie Series (Wednesdays in June and August), and more.
Stay connected
Visit downtownbarrie.ca for a complete list of businesses and upcoming events. Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter to stay in the loop. Sign up here.
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