MOUNTAIN LIFE - Blue Mountains | Fall 2020

Inspired by his love for the pub atmosphere in the U.K., Shaw wanted the Bonfire to be a gathering house with a signature social dining experience. The name is also inspired by a famous event in the U.K. known as Guy Fawkes Day, which falls on November 5. This is also a date upon which both Christie and Shaw happen to share a birthday. Known also as Bonfire Night, the evening commemorates a failed assassination attempt on King James I in 1605. This influence, coupled with the Canadian pastime of gathering around a bonfire, sparked the inspiration behind the name. Three days after opening back on April 23, they had already served up 230 pizzas to the community—a good sign of things to come. Still, the early days were not without challenges—they couldn’t hire sta! while only serving take-out. Yet the couple were able to forge ahead thanks to the support of the community. Thanks to funding opportunities from the County, Christie and Shawwere able to enhance their patio experience, which helped them expand services and o!er outdoor seating at a distance while following the pandemic restrictions, as well as helping them kickstart their business. With other buildings in town waiting for new owners, as well as across Bruce County, who knows what other ideas may soon arrive? One thing’s for sure: the Bonfire On Queen will be blazing for years to come. Bruce County provides supports and grants for those interested in starting or expanding a new business in the region. For more information visit: