The Xcelerate Summit is a can't miss event with opportunities for not only learning but for business connections as well. Along with workshops and countless speakers at three different venues, you'll also want to enjoy Barrie's downtown core and we have your guide to make sure you make the most of everything.
The Schedule
Wednesday, October 23rd
1 PM to 2:15 PM - Human Behaviour in Branding Presented by Paul Larch (Georgian College Design & Digital Arts Centre)
2:30 PM to 530 PM - Georgian Angel Network (Georgian College Design & Digital Arts Centre)
5:30 PM to 6 PM - Conference Registration (Five Points Theatre)
6 PM to 7 PM - Conference Opening (Five Points Theatre)
7 PM to 8 PM - Graham Sherman of Tool Shed Brewing Company (Five Points Theatre)
8 PM to 830 PM - Graham Sherman Meet & Greet (Five Points Theatre)
Thursday, Oct 24th
8 AM - Registration & Networking Breakfast (Georgian College Design & Digital Arts Centre)
8:45 AM - Opening Remarks & Kick Off (Georgian College Design & Digital Arts Centre)
9 AM to 11:30 AM - Morning Breakout Sessions (Georgian College Design & Digital Arts Centre)
11:30 AM to 1 PM - Pop-up Talks and Experiential Networking (Georgian College Design & Digital Arts Centre)
1 PM to 3:30 PM - Afternoon Breakout Sessions (Georgian College Design & Digital Arts Centre)
4 PM to 5 PM - Presidents Panel (Five Points Theatre)
6 PM - Social Night with Sonic Coalition (Donaleigh's Irish Public House)
The Venues
Georgian College Design & Digital Arts Centre
This newly renovated building is an off-campus extension to Georgian College that specializes in equipping students with the tools necessary for a career in design and digital arts. This beautiful space is located just one block from Dunlop Street, Barrie's main downtown strip.
Five Points Theatre
The Five Points Theatre is home to countless productions and live events so it's no wonder it was chosen as one of the venues for the Xcelerate Summit. This location is directly on the main downtown strip so grabbing a bite between talks will be a cakewalk.
Donaleigh's Irish Public House
After all the talks, workshops, and business has concluded, Donaleigh's Irish Public House will host a social night with live music from Sonic Coalition to wrap up the summit. Donaleigh's is located close to the other two venues and is a fantastic traditional pub expereince.
Parking
On the off chance you're only catching part of the summit, there is street parking with 2-hour limits located everywhere in Downtown Barrie but for most, you will want to park at one of the parkades. Daily parking is only $5.50 and you can check out the downtown parking map here.
Food
Since you'll be in the heart of Downtown Barrie, fantastic food and drinks will be around every corner. Here are a few of our favorites for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Breakfast
Casa Cappuccino
If you're on your way to the summit (from the east) you will definitely want to stop at Casa Cappuccino for your morning coffee. With tons of specialty brews and tasty treats, there's a reason it's been around for a while.
Dunlop Street Diner
Located right off the five points, the Dunlop Street Diner is a cozy place start your day. From French toast and pancakes to eggs benedict and omelets, they have everything a hungry belly could want in the morning.
Lunch
Chavo Crepes
While you could also head to Chavo Crepes for breakfast, they have a wonderful selection of savory crepes that are absolutely delicious. We recommend The Monte Christo or The Parisian-Style Crepe but you really can't go wrong with any of them.
Sigrid's Cafe & Fine Bakery
With German Recipes that go back generations, Sigrid's Cafe & Fine Bakery has soups and sandwiches to satisfy that mid-day hunger. There's also a good chance you won't be able to pass all the sweet treats on display without buying one (or ten).
Dinner
Town & Country Steak House
The Town & Country Steak House has been a staple of Downtown Barrie for 45 years they are celebrating with a special deal that will get you a steak dinner for the 1973 price of $9.73. Just register yourself on their VIP list to snag the deal. Get your phones ready for the Instagram worthy tableside creations as well!
The North
Combining a fantastic atmosphere with beautifully plated and delicious tasting food, we can't recommend The North enough. Leave your worries at the door because once you step inside, Chef Marco takes care of your tastebuds and just about everything else.
For more details about the Xcelerate Summit click here. Be sure to check back at Barrie 360 for a detailed look at all the amazing speakers.
