Second Wave of Artists Announced For Peterborough Folk Festival 2026

The 37th annual Peterborough Folk Festival has announced its second wave of artists performing for this year’s event, from Aug. 13 to 16 at Nicholls Oval Park.

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The following are the featured artists:

Kazdoura: meaning “to stroll” in Levantine Arabic— Kazdoura embodies the spirit of exploration, nostalgia, and groove. Founded in Toronto by Syrian vocalist Leen Hamo and Lebanese multi-instrumentalist John Abou Chacra, the JUNO Award-winning duo bridges modern and traditional Arabic music with psychedelia, funk, and soul. Their sound radiates a vintage psych-soul atmosphere.

Shad: Shad (Shadrach Kabango) is a Canadian recording artist of Rwandan descent, raised in London Ontario, known for blending humour and weighty themes, inspiring positivity while exploring a range of sounds. Shad won the Juno Award for Rap Recording Of The Year in 2011 and five of his albums have been shortlisted for the Polaris Music Prize for Canadian Album Of The Year, the most shortlist nominations of any artist in the prize’s history.

The Friendly Frog Freak Show: Amphibian progressive funk energetically charged and ready to fire you up into a vortex of infinite sounds and colours backed by an eclectic rhythm section offering dancey shivers and auspicious ambiances to make you bring out your inner frog.

Tennyson King: Tennyson King 百城 is an award-winning, nomadic folk musician whose life and music stretch between Hong Kong and Canada. Performing in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese, Tennyson builds his sound around rhythmic guitar, kick drum, and traditional instruments like the zhongruan. He has performed around the world, including an appearance at Glastonbury Festival, and earned a nomination for Performing Artist of the Year at the Ontario Folk Music Awards.

Georgia Harmer: Known for her ethereal voice and sincere lyricism, Georgia Harmer has emerged as one of the most compelling voices in Canada's indie music scene. Her songs move fluidly across a wide emotional range—shifting from soaring, cathartic anthems to hushed, intimate reflections with ease. She has toured extensively across North America and the UK, performing at major festivals such as SXSW, The Great Escape, and Focus Wales, and supporting artists including City & Colour, Lake Street Dive, Bahamas, and Broken Social Scene.

Lauren Dillen: While Dillen’s soothing voice and deft musicianship can be heard through her work with folk-rock quartet Burs, her solo project is all about self-work and following her instincts. Her songs are reminiscent of Joni Mitchell, Laura Marling, and Andy Shauf, with soundscapes informed by ambient musicians like Emily A. Sprague.

Burs: Burs (the small things that stick with you) comprises Lauren Dillen, Ray Goudy, Devon Savas and Aidan McConnell. Hailed as "a rich and often ethereal collection of songs able to change with fluid ease" [The Revue], Burs debut album Holding Patterns was released in September of 2022.

Cale Crowe: Born and raised on Alderville First Nation territory, Cale Crowe was fueled by music from the time he had a heartbeat. That love of music and sense of “life soundtrack” would lead him to picking up his father’s guitar for the first time at age 12 and performing live for his first audience at 14. His blend of campfire-style folk and modern pop/rock reflects and builds upon the taste he developed all those years ago.

Ollie Mae: Ollie Mae is a 17-year-old singer-songwriter who channels the classic sound of folk, CanRock, and country roots through her music. Since age 16, Ollie Mae has worked as a recording and mixing engineer at Treblecock Studio, located in Peterborough. She’s been diligently working on her self-produced first album throughout the year, and is elated at the opportunity to play at the 2026 Peterborough Folk Festival!

The Kents: They’re back! The Kents formed in 2011 in Peterborough’s neighbour, Lindsay, Ontario. Composed of homegrown talents Warren Frank, Freddy Kwon, Tanner Paré, Luke Shauf, and 2022 Folk Fest Emerging Artist Nathan Truax, The Kents offer a unique indie-pop sound that is reminiscent of Foster the People, Young the Giant, and The Arkells. The Kents have appeared on many big stages, including Canadian Music Week in 2018.

The Weber Brothers: Between their renowned musical ability, high-energy, awe-inspiring performances and lessons learned first hand from rock n’ roll pioneers, The Weber Brothers have developed a reputation as the “Baddest Band in the Land”.

Melissa Payne: Hailing from Ennismore, Ontario, Melissa Payne has made a lasting impact on the music scene, and her journey has only just begun. Originally rooted in old-time fiddle and traditional Celtic music, Melissa has now blossomed into a successful solo artist with three full-length albums under her belt. Melissa's live performances have garnered critical acclaim, and she has had the privilege of collaborating with some of Canada's biggest names in music. Notable guest collaborators include Blue Rodeo's Greg Keelor, James McKenty, Matt Mays, Natalie MacMaster, cellist Nathaniel Smith, and Jimmy Bowskill, showcasing her ability to work with renowned artists.

The festival also features a Children’s Village, which will offer free daily programming from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. including crafts, workshops, story time, face painting and a daily children’s parade.

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Peterborough Musicfest Looks Ahead to Another Big Week After Weather Throws Canada Day Curveball

By Scott Arnold

Sass Jordan returns Wednesday while Lighthouse headlines Saturday, with Lotsy opening the midweek show on the Cogeco Future Sound Series stage and Carling Stephen kicking off the weekend show.

peterborough musician carling stephen will kickoff SAturday’s musicfest at 6:30pm from the side stage before lighthouse hits the main stage at 8pm (photo by Scott arnold)

Peterborough Musicfest is turning its attention to another exciting week of concerts after Mother Nature forced an unexpected change to the schedule on Canada Day.

The festival's daytime Canada Day programming went ahead as planned, but severe weather rolled into Del Crary Park just before the evening concert, forcing organizers to cancel Neon Nostalgic's performance for the safety of concertgoers, staff and performers.

"It was more eventful than we expected it to be," said Peterborough Musicfest Marketing and Communications Manager Raff Melito.

Although Musicfest typically operates rain or shine, organizers made the rare decision to cancel before the festival's usual 7:55 pm weather deadline after a severe thunderstorm warning was issued and powerful winds swept through the park.

"Tents were flying, the chairs were spun around. It was a really strong, intense wind," Melito said.

With the stage and equipment left soaked by the storm and more severe weather possible later in the evening, organizers determined it wasn't safe to continue.

While the cancellation disappointed both fans and the band, Musicfest bounced back just a few days later.

The Good Lovelies returned to Del Crary Park on Saturday for their first festival appearance since 2014, performing to another strong crowd on what turned into a beautiful summer evening.

"I think everyone who attended was really into listening to them perform because they were captivated," said Melito.

Now, attention shifts to another pair of concerts this week.

sass jordan will be performing for the third time at peterborough musicfest on Wedneday, July 8th, at 8pm at Del Crary Park (photo courtesy of PEterborough musicfest)

Rock fans will welcome Sass Jordan back to Peterborough on Wednesday night, July 8th, for her third Musicfest appearance. Known for her powerhouse vocals and guitar-driven sound, Melito expects another memorable night at the park.

“Her voice is loud and strong and it’s going to be a really great night” says Melito.

Peterborough artist lotsy will perform at 6:30pm on wednesday, july 8th, ahead of headliner sass jordan as part of peterborough musicfest at del crary park (photo via facebook @lotsyland)

Wednesday’s show will begin with Peterborough native Lotsy, who many may know as Sarah Jayne Riley, performing at 6:30pm on the side stage.

Musicfest describes Lotsy’s sound as blending sharp-edged alt-pop, post-punk energy, new wave textures, and giant singalong hooks, describing her songs as being made for late-night drives, festival crowds and moments of personal reckoning.

lighthouse is set to perform at peterborough musicfest at del crary park on saturday july 11th (photo courtesy of peterborough musicfest)

Saturday's concert, on July 11th, will feature Canadian music legends Lighthouse, whose catalogue includes classics such as One Fine Morning and Sunny Days.

"If you don't know the band by name, you will absolutely know their songs," Melito said.

Before Lighthouse takes the main stage at 8 pm, Peterborough native Carling Stephen will open the evening on the Cogeco Future Sound Series stage beginning at 6:30 pm.

peterborough native carling stephen will kick things off on SAturday, july 11th, at 6:30pm before lighthouse hits the main stage at 8pm (photo by Scott arnold)

For Stephen, performing at Musicfest is another special chapter in a lifelong connection with the festival.

"Musicfest has been a part of my life," she said. "It's been inspiring and a great place to come and meet people."

She also appeared on the Musicfest stage last summer alongside Beau Dixon, but this year's performance gives her the opportunity to take centre stage herself.

"I'm really looking forward to getting some really good songs played and connecting with the audience," she said.

Concertgoers can expect a mix of blues, jazz, rock, R&B and classic favourites, all delivered with Stephen's own style.

"I add a little jazz to everything I do," she said.

She hopes plenty of family, friends and local music fans will arrive early to catch her set before Lighthouse takes over for the evening.

Along with another week of free music, visitors can also check out Peterborough Musicfest's official merchandise, enjoy the food vendors and take part in the festival's interactive gamification experience. By scanning QR codes throughout the park, visitors can play games, answer trivia and win prizes donated by Musicfest sponsors while waiting for the main stage performances.

Following this week's concerts, Peterborough Musicfest will continue every Wednesday and Saturday throughout the summer at Del Crary Park.

Want to enjoy one of this week's concerts from some of the best seats in the park? We're giving away a pair of VIP tickets. The winner will receive two reserved seats in the VIP section directly in front of the stage. Visit our Facebook and Instagram pages for contest details and your chance to win.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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Sunday Summer Concerts Return to Riverview Park and Zoo For 2026

Sunday Summer Concerts in the gazebo are returning to the Riverview Park and Zoo starting this Sunday.

Photo courtesy of the Riverview Park and Zoo.

This free bi-weekly event features local musicians and groups performing every other Sunday.

“The summer concerts at the gazebo are a wonderful way to spend an afternoon in a relaxed, welcoming outdoor setting,” said Community Services Co-Chairs Lesley Parnell and Alex Bierk. “With a fantastic lineup of local talent and a beautiful natural backdrop at the Riverview Park and Zoo, these free concerts offer something for everyone. We encourage residents and visitors alike to come to the Zoo, enjoy the music and make the most of summer in our city.” 

Concerts take place from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in an outdoor setting, weather permitting. Visitors are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket and a shade umbrella.  

This summer's lineup is as follows: 

•  May 24: Donny Woods Band 

•  June 7: Fyd L Styx 

•  June 21: Wylie Harold and Radio Flyer 

•  July 5: Peterborough Concert Band 

•  July 19: Jazz Junction 

•  August 2: EC Swing 

•  August 16: Lizeh Basciano 

•  August 30: Knightshift  

Parking is limited at the Riverview Park and Zoo. Visitors are encouraged to take public transit, carpool, cycle or walk if possible.  

Visitors are asked to park only in designated parking areas.  

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First Wave of Artists Announced For Peterborough Folk Festival 2026

The 37th annual Peterborough Folk Festival has announced its first wave of artists performing for this year’s event, from Aug. 13 to 16 at Nicholls Oval Park.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Folk Festival.

The following are the featured artists:

Bahamas: A globally successful touring artist, Bahamas has earned widespread acclaim across genres, with over three-quarters of a billion streams and more than 3 million monthly listeners. His albums  Bahamas Is Afie and Earthtones both won Juno Awards, and in 2026, he again won Adult  Alternative Album of the Year for My Second Last Album, shared with Begonia.  

Begonia: Winnipeg-based artist Begonia (Alexa Dirks) is celebrated for her powerful live performances and genre-blending sound. A two-time Juno and Polaris nominee, her 2026  release, Fantasy Life, earned a Juno Award for Adult Alternative Album of the Year.  

The Pairs: This internationally touring trio is known for sibling harmonies, humour, and intimate stage presence. Their 2025 album Together on a Rock charted in the top 10 on the FAI Folk  Charts and received national radio play.  

Kelly McMichael: A Polaris-shortlisted songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, McMichael blends indie rock, pop, and experimental sounds. A previous Peterborough Folk Festival Emerging Artist, she has earned national acclaim, with After the Sting of It winning MusicNL’s Album of the Year and receiving widespread radio play.  

The Young Novelists: This internationally touring duo, featuring Peterborough’s Laura Spink, is known for rich harmonies and storytelling. Their 2025 album, These Dark Canyons, was nominated for a 2026 Juno Award.  

Field Guide: A Winnipeg-based artist known for atmospheric songwriting, Field Guide has amassed millions of streams and toured alongside major acts, including Bahamas and Leif Vollebekk.  

Dean Johnson: The Seattle-based singer-songwriter broke out with his debut album at age 50, earning attention for his emotionally resonant songwriting and distinctive voice.  

The Lucky Ones: Blending classic country-roots with contemporary sounds, this Yukon-based group (featuring Peterborough’s Ryan West) draws from generations of musical tradition. 

The Naysayers: Led by Drea Naysayer, a previous Peterborough Folk Festival Emerging Artist,  this genre-blending project spans folk, country, alt-rock, and punk. With 10 independent albums and international touring experience, they continue to build a passionate following.  

The Free Label: This Toronto-based six-piece delivers high-energy funk, disco, and R&B, with international touring experience and millions of views of their live performances.  

The Watched Pots: This Peterborough songwriting duo blends improv songwriting, feminism,  humour, and kitchen theatrics to make music creation accessible and fun for beginners. 

Slow Leaves: The project of Winnipeg’s Grant Davidson, who writes songs about vulnerability that elevate the ordinary into poignant narratives with indie-folk and pop inclinations.  

Moondoggy: Formed in Collingwood, this lively alternative rock band, now based in Toronto, has gained tens of millions of streams worldwide and toured across Canada, the U.S. and Europe.

The festival also features a Children’s Village, which will offer free daily programming from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. including crafts, workshops, story time, face painting and a daily children’s parade.

Peterborough Musicfest Launches Its 2026 Lineup For Its 39th Season

With the 39th season underway this summer, Peterborough Musicfest has released its 2026 lineup, announced at the Quaker Foods City Square on Wednesday morning.

Tracey Randall, Peterborough Musicfest executive director; Sue Passmore of Good Lovelies and Vince Bierworth, Musicfest emcee, launch this year's lineup of 2026. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Peterborough Musicfest concerts run every Wednesday and Saturday with free admission from June 27 to Aug. 19.

The following is this year’s lineup:

• June 27: Gowan

• July 1: Neon Nostalgic

• July 4: Good Lovelies

• July 8: Sass Jordan

• July 11: Lighthouse

• July 15: Tyler Joe Miller

• July 18: Julian Taylor

• July 22: TBA

• July 25: TBA

• July 29: Dwyane Gretzky

• Aug. 1: Garth Brooks & Shania Twain Tribute

• Aug. 5: Crash Test Dummies

• Aug. 8: TBA

• Aug. 12 Trans-Canada Highwaymen

• Aug. 15: Crystal Faith

• Aug. 19: The Dreamboats

“We're happy to just let everybody know who's playing,” said Tracey Randall, Peterborough Musicfest executive director. “People love to plan their vacations around us and they schedule it based on who's coming so we're just pumped to get the lineup out.”

@ptbo_canada @Peterborough Musicfest 🇨🇦🎤 has released its 2026 lineup for their 39th season! #ptbocanada #journalism #fyp #news #peterboroughmusicfest ♬ indie rock (60) - DJ BAI

Despite three acts to be announced, Randall says two have already been solidified but cannot be mentioned yet. This allows for-profit venues that have booked the same artists to generate ticket sales before making the free concert with Musicfest public.

Returning this season is the 50/50 Raffle Draw, which gave away over $33,000 last year. Musicfest brought back the ‘Future Sound Series,’ for a second-straight year. The second stage showcases emerging local artists, running from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on select nights. Last season was the series’s inaugural year, with nine artists but 2026 expanded to 15 acts.

“Where is our next Serena Ryder? We want somebody on our stage from Peterborough and the region so we're trying to bring in our locals,” explained Randall. “With a lot of our venues closing and a lot of festivals that have stopped, we need somewhere for these locals to play.”

With rising costs, this year is no exception for the 39th season of the non-profit organization. Randall says that despite these challenges, her crew and her prior relationships with acts have helped keep their free concert series going.

“Insurance has doubled, our production went up by 38 per cent and then of course, artists' fees have doubled,” she explained. “Because of our connection with a lot of the artists — they love Peterborough, they love what we do — we have a reputation. We're so lucky.”

Randall also credited the community and its local funds for helping keep the Peterborough tradition alive for nearly four decades.

“We're very proud with Peterborough and how far we've come with this festival,” she said. “There are so many people involved with Peterborough Musicfest for another forty years so cheers to that.”

Musicfest has a fundraising 2026 Diners’ Book which launched in late November. The $30 book features 85 dining offers deals from restaurants, cafés, pubs and other food establishments across Peterborough, the Kawarthas and the surrounding region.

The 2026 Diner’s Book is be available for purchase at:

• Lansdowne Place (Customer Service Desk)

• Cogeco Customer Centre -1111 Goodfellow Rd.

• Online

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Canadian Country Artists Dean Brody and The Reklaws Grace Peterborough Memorial Centre Stage On Nov. 21

As part of their Hometown Heroes National Tour, Canada’s country artists Dean Brody and The Reklaws are taking the stage at the Peterborough Memorial Centre on Nov. 21, announced on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of Austin Chaffe.

“There’s something special about getting out across the country and playing these songs for fans in every corner of Canada,” said Brody. “This tour is all about celebrating where we come from and the people who’ve been there along the way. Getting to do that alongside my friends, The Reklaws, is going to make it even more memorable.”

“We’re so fired up,” said Jenna and Stuart Walker of The Reklaws. “We’ve shared so many moments with Dean over the years and getting to bring that to fans across the country on this kind of scale is unreal.”

Their latest single, ‘Hometown Heroes,’ was penned after seeing our nation united behind their home baseball team last fall. According to a press release, the tour will bring country music across Canada to celebrate the people who make each city feel like home.

Tickets go on sale Friday at 10 a.m.

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Canadian Country Artist Tyler Joe Miller to Make Peterborough Musicfest Debut On July 15

Rising Canadian country artist Tyler Joe Miller is making his Peterborough Musicfest debut on the Fred Anderson Stage on July 15 at 8 p.m. at Del Crary Park, announced on Friday.

Photo courtesy of Peterborough Musicfest.

Since breaking through with his Gold-certified, #1 debut single ‘Pillow Talkin’,’ Miller became the first independent Canadian country artist to land back-to-back number one hits with ‘I Would Be Over Me Too,’ and has since earned nine Top 10 singles, a 2021 SiriusXM Top of the Country win and multiple JUNO and CCMA nominations. His latest EP, ‘Going Home’ has been nominated for 2025 CCMA Album of the Year.

Miller will make an appearance at the CCMA Awards this September, nominated for Male Artist of the Year and Fans’ Choice.

He joins the Musicfest schedule with Gowan who plays on opening night on June 27 and Dwayne Gretzky on July 29.

Returning this season are the on-site food vendors, the 50/50 draw and the Future Sound Series. Musicfest concerts are run every Wednesday and Saturday from June 27 to Aug. 19.

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Gowan and Dwayne Gretzky to Kick Off 39th Season of Peterborough Musicfest

To help kick off the 39th season of Peterborough Musicfest, Gowan and Dwayne Gretzky have been unveiled as the first two concerts, announced on Wednesday.

Gowan (pictured) was born in Glascow, Scotland but was raised in Scarborough. Peterborough Musicfest attracts more than 100,000 attendees to Del Crary Park each summer. Photo courtesy of Peterborough Musicfest.

Gowan returns to the Fred Anderson Stage for his fourth appearance on Opening Night on June 27. Dwayne Gretzky makes their sixth appearance on July 29, both at 8 p.m. All shows take place at Del Crary Park and are free to attend.

Gowan is known for hits such as ‘A Criminal Mind,’ ‘Strange Animal’ and ‘Moonlight Desires.’

Dwayne Gretzky — known as Canada’s Greatest Party Band —brings a catalogue of more than 800 songs from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Their shows are built for big crowds and even bigger sing-alongs.

@ptbo_canada Gowan and Dwayne Gretzky are the first two acts announce for the 39th season of @Peterborough Musicfest 🇨🇦🎤!!! #ptbocanada #journalism #fyp #news #peterboroughmusicfest ♬ 80's Hard Rock - Sandy Neo Classical

“This is just the starting point for what’s shaping up to be a strong 39th season,” says Tracey Randall, Musicfest executive director. “We’re focused on building a full summer experience—great live music, a vibrant park atmosphere and reasons for people to come back week after week.”

Returning this season are the on-site food vendors, the 50/50 draw and the Future Sound Series. Musicfest concerts are run every Wednesday and Saturday from June 27 to Aug. 19.

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Peterborough Folk Festival Receives FEO Provincial Sustainability Award

The Peterborough Folk Festival has been recognized for their commitment to environmental leadership and sustainable practices, being awarded the 2026 Festivals and Events Ontario Sustainability Award.

photo courtesy of the peterborough folk festival.

The Festivals and Events Ontario (FEO) 2026 Sustainability Award was presented to Peterborough Folk Festival’s (PFF) treasurer, Chad Hogan, at the FEO Awards Gala this week in Kitchener, amongst festival and tourism industry colleagues from across Ontario.

The FEO Sustainability Award recognizes festivals and events that demonstrate commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. The award highlights festivals and events that implement innovative and effective sustainability initiatives, including waste reduction, energy efficiency, community engagement and environmentally responsible operations.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors of Peterborough Folk Festival, I want to express how honoured we are to receive the 2026 Festivals and Events Ontario Sustainability Award recognizing a value that has guided our festival for 37 years”, said Emma MacDonald, Chair of the festival’s Eco Committee. “This recognition is a testament to the extraordinary work behind the scenes by our volunteers and community partners: the teams scrubbing dishes, parking bikes, sorting waste and recycling and supplying on-site solar energy. It takes a village to run a sustainable festival, and this honour belongs to the dedicated community that makes it possible.”

Highlights of PFF’s sustainability efforts include a commitment to waste reduction, complimentary bike valet parking, a Generation Solar stage, park stewardship at Nicholls Oval and a commitment to supporting local businesses and vendors.

“Congratulations to Peterborough Folk Festival on being named the recipient of Festivals and Events Ontario’s Sustainability Award! In addition to capturing the essence of Peterborough’s culture community, the Folk Festival is an exemplary steward of the land, water and community surrounding Nicholls Oval Park," City Councillors, and Community Services co-chairs Lesley Parnell and Alex Bierk shared in a joint statement. "This award honours Peterborough Folk Festival’s long-standing commitment to sustainability through waste reduction, active transportation, supporting local businesses, and even having a solar-powered stage. The festival and the entire Peterborough community can feel very proud of this recognition.”

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Peterborough Musicfest Named One of Ontario’s Top 100 Festivals and Events

Peterborough Musicfest has been recognized as one of the Top 100 Festivals and Events in Ontario by Festivals and Events Ontario (FEO).

Peterborough Musicfest is Canada’s longest-running free outdoor concert series. Each summer at Del Crary Park, over 100,000 people gather along the waterfront to experience music performances in a barrier-free, family-friendly setting. Photo courtesy of peterborough musicfest.

For nearly four decades, Peterborough Musicfest has operated, bringing music to Downtown Peterborough during the summer. FEO’s recognition highlights the calibre of performances presented each season, as well as the collective effort of volunteers, sponsors, artists, donors and audiences who make the series possible.

The FEO Top 100 designation is awarded by an independent panel of judges and recognizes innovation, economic impact, community engagement and overall excellence.

“This recognition belongs to our volunteers, our sponsors, our artists, our donors and every single person who brings a lawn chair down to Del Crary Park on a Wednesday or Saturday night,” said Tracey Randall, Peterborough Musicfest executive director. “Musicfest has always been about access, energy and community and this honour reflects the strength and spirit of our supporters.”

“Congratulations to Peterborough Musicfest on being named one of the Top 100 Festivals by Festivals and Events Ontario,” said City Councillors and Community Services Co-Chairs Lesley Parnell and Alex Bierk in a joint statement. “As we look forward to the 39th season beginning on June 27, we recognize the work of Musicfest's staff, board and volunteers in creating one of Peterborough's most beloved summer traditions: a celebration of culture, creativity, and community along the historic Trent-Severn Waterway, one of Ontario’s most beautiful settings.”

Concerts for this year’s festival start June 27 and continue through to Aug.19.

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