The 31st Annual Peterborough Greek Festival Hits Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church This Sunday

The Peterborough Greek Festival is back for its 31st year, happening at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church from noon until 5 p.m. this Sunday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Typically held on the second Sunday in June, the event is expected to take place rain or shine.

Food options at the event include souvlaki, lamb, salad, desserts and beverages.

Entertainment is provided with Greek dancers from Oshawa and live music by Chris Papas. Activities for children is also at the festival.

Event organizers remind attendees that accessible parking spots are only available at the church parking lot.

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Great Canadian Cheese Festival Hits the Morrow Building This Weekend

The annual Great Canadian Cheese Festival arrives in Peterborough for the first time on both days this weekend at the Morrow Building to celebrate Canada’s finest artisan foods.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough,

With close to 80 vendors - including select producers from the Peterborough & District Farmers’ Market - the festival promises an exceptional culinary experience for visitors of all ages.

Festival hours are Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This year’s festival features an impressive lineup of small‑batch Canadian dairy and cheese makers, alongside local wineries, craft breweries, and artisanal food producers offering the perfect pairings for any table. Guests can explore handcrafted cheeses, gourmet accompaniments, specialty beverages and unique pantry items rarely found outside boutique retailers.

This event is being welcomed with enthusiasm and support from the community. Organizers of the Great Canadian Cheese Festival received support through Peterborough Tourism, the City’s tourism service and destination marketing program, including support with marketing and promotion, in-kind City services, and tracking attendance trends.

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet producers, learn about their craft, and enjoy samples throughout the weekend. All featured products will be available for purchase, making this a must‑visit event for anyone who appreciates high‑quality, hard‑to‑find foods.

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Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area Four Dates For This Year's Second Saturday Sidewalk Sales

The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) is bringing back the Second Saturday Sidewalk Sales, held on four dates on George Street, to showcase shopping, entertainment, patios and community activities in downtown Peterborough.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough DBIA.

The dates are June 13, July 11, Aug. 8 and Sept. 12. George Street is closed to vehicle traffic between Hunter and Simcoe Streets, creating expanded pedestrian space for shopping, dining, live entertainment and outdoor activations during the event.

Visitors can explore sidewalk sales, artisan vendors, special promotions, patios, and family-friendly activities throughout the downtown core.

“Second Saturdays have become one of the signature features of a lively summer downtown,” says Nour Mazloum, DBIA executive director. “These events create an incredible atmosphere on our streets while directly supporting our local businesses. They encourage people to explore the core and see firsthand why downtown Peterborough remains the heart of our community.”

According to the DBIA, the event series is designed to support economic activity in the downtown while encouraging residents and visitors to explore local businesses and amenities. Businesses throughout the core will expand their presence outdoors through sidewalk displays, promotions, interactive experiences and special-event offerings.

“Downtown Second Saturday is more than just an event; it’s an opportunity to reconnect with our downtown core, support local businesses, and bring the community together,” says Shelby Leonard-Watt, S.O.S. Save Our Soles owner. “By creating a recurring event throughout the summer, Second Saturday gives residents and visitors a reason to return downtown and discover something new each month.”

Businesses interested in participating through a sidewalk activation or pop-up experience are encouraged to contact the DBIA for more information.

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Public Asked to Select Film For 2026 Canada Day Movie Night

The City of Peterborough asks the community to vote for a film for the free Canada Day Movie Night at Quaker Foods City Square.  

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Movie-goers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets and snacks. The City will hand out free popcorn before the movie and host a s’mores station. The movie will begin at dusk or approximately 9 p.m. 

Movie fans can vote for one of the following options:

The Art of Racing in the Rain

The Art of Racing in the Rain is a heartfelt and emotional story told through the eyes of Enzo, a devoted dog who shares the journey of his owner, race car driver Denny Swift, who is passionate about racing. Enzo’s perspective offers profound insights into the complexities of life, highlighting resilience and the powerful bond between humans and their pets.

The film was filmed in Vancouver and British Columbia, with additional on-track scenes shot at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park in Bowmanville, Ontario.

The Big Year

The Big Year follows three men competing to see who can spot and identify the most bird species in North America in a single year: Brad Harris, a computer programmer; Stu Preissler, a corporate CEO; and Kenny Bostick, a record-holding birding champion. As their obsession grows, the film explores the personal sacrifices, challenges, and unexpected friendships that come with chasing a “big year” in birding.

The film was primarily shot in British Columbia, with scenes filmed in Squamish and Vancouver, and Canadian bird experts were brought in as advisors during production.

Gnomeo and Juliet

Gnomeo and Juliet is a whimsical animated retelling of Shakespeare’s classic love story, following Gnomeo and Juliet—two garden gnomes from rival families who fall in love despite their feud. Filled with humor, action, and heart, the film follows their journey as they try to be together against all odds.

The film was mainly produced in Toronto and features work from Canadian CGI animation company Starz Animation

Butterfly Tale

Butterfly Tale is a heartwarming animated adventure about Patrick, a young monarch butterfly born with an undeveloped wing who can’t fly. He sets off on a journey across North America to follow his dream of flight, inspired by the real-life migration of monarch butterflies. The film features original songs by Shawn Mendes and Johnny Orlando.

This film was made in Montreal as a Canadian production, featuring Canadian voice actors and a creative team of Canadian artists.

Each film has a Canadian connection, whether through cast and crew members or through filming locations and themes. 

The poll closes at 11:59 p.m. on June 19.  

Canada Day Movie night begins at 7:30 p.m. and marks the launch of the City of Peterborough’s Canada Day festivities. 

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Peterborough Public Library and Bird Friendly Peterborough to Host World Migratory Bird Day On May 30

Celebrate the return of migratory birds to the Kawarthas during World Migratory Bird Day on May 30 at the Peterborough Public Library.

Photo courtesy of Dave Ellis.

Hosted by Peterborough Public Library and Bird Friendly Peterborough, the event takes place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Friends of the Library Community Room on the lower level.

“Welcoming back our feathered friends to Peterborough is a great way to connect with nature,” said City Councillors Joy Lachica and Kevin Duguay, council appointees to the Peterborough Environmental Advisory Committee. “The journey back home can be a long and difficult one for migratory birds with many obstacles to overcome. Celebrating that feat affirms our connection with and awe of the natural world.”

A Bird Friendly City proclamation will be read during the event at 11:30 a.m. by Councillor Lachica.

The celebration includes the following activities: 

• A chance to meet Steve the Kestrel and watch a raptor demonstration 

• Check out a display of the library’s birdwatching and nature kits 

• Speak with community organizations about protecting birds, conserving habitat, and providing bird education opportunities 

• Giveaway of birdhouse kits (while quantities last) 

Many local bird species migrate thousands of kilometres each spring to reach suitable habitats for breeding before heading south in the fall. Like yearlong resident birds, migratory birds are impacted by habitat loss and hazards such as light pollution and window strikes. 

“In a city like Peterborough, every bird-friendly choice like planting native species, reducing glass collisions, and dimming lights at night becomes a small act of stewardship,” said Thomas Luloff, Bird Friendly Peterborough vice chair. “Protecting birds isn’t just about preserving their songs; it’s about safeguarding the balance of the urban ecosystem we all depend on.” 

This event also celebrates the completion of the anti-bird collision window decals at the main branch of the Peterborough Public Library. Similar decals are currently being installed at the Healthy Planet Arena throughout May, increasing the number of City facilities with treated windows.

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12-Year Old Boy Lands Grand Prize Fish 'Walter' At 37th Annual OFAH Under the Lock Fishing Derby

It only took roughly 30 minutes for 12-year-old Jonny Patterson to land the grand prize of $1,000 by catching ‘Walter’ at the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) 37th Annual Under the Lock Fishing Derby on Saturday.

Last year saw a record-breaking 2,380 anglers register. Photo courtesy of OFAH.

Walter was caught just before noon on Saturday during the youth derby for those aged 15 and under.

According to an OFAH’s Facebook post, three of the top five prizes have already been claimed as of Sunday. ‘Gordon’ and ‘Opie’ are the two remaining grand prize fish, worth $500 and a guided fishing trip for three in Algonquin Park with Opeongo Lake and Beyond Guide Service, respectively.

The all-ages event began on Sunday at 9:00 a.m. and continues until May 3.

Youth registration is $15 for the first child and $10 for each additional child registered at the same time. Registration includes instant prizes during the Youth Derby and entry into the All Ages Derby.

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Lift Lock Canal Stocked Up For 37th Annual OFAH Under the Lock Fishing Derby This Saturday

The Peterborough Lift Lock’s canal has been stocked with over 3,000 trout to kickstart the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) 37th Annual Under the Lock Fishing Derby starting this Saturday.

GORDON BOWLEY, FISHING DERBY CO-CHAIR, showcases Walter before releasing him into the canal. This is Bowley’s 26th year releasing Walter into the water. PHOTO BY DAVID TUAN BUI.

The youth derby is for those aged 15 and under and kicks off this Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., followed by the all-ages event starting Sunday at 9:00 a.m. until May 3.

Last year saw a record-breaking 2,380 anglers register, helping maintain a long-standing tradition that is important to Peterborough, according to David Ryrie, OFAH director of communications.

“It is a community staple and we hear every year how happy people that we're still putting this on,, he said. “The OFAH is really proud to continue this tradition.”

There is more than $35,000 in prizes up for grabs. This year features five grand prizes, including the return of rainbow trout ‘Walter,’ and a $1,000 cash prize for the person who catches him. New this year is a guided fishing trip for three in Algonquin Park with Opeongo Lake and Beyond Guide Service.

“(This is) a little bit something for those new anglers that want to get outside of the regular shore fishing,” said Ryrie.

Youth registration is $15 for the first child and $10 for each additional child registered at the same time. Registration includes instant prizes during the Youth Derby and entry into the All Ages Derby.

@ptbo_canada Walter has been cast into the canal to help kick off the 37th Under the Lock Fishing Derby from April 25 to May 3! #ptbocanada #journalism #fyp #news #dailynews ♬ Gone Fishing - BDR Music

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4th Line Theatre Presents Artist Talk Series Wth Patti Shaughnessy and Megan Murphy

4th Line Theatre’s spring Artist Talk series returns on April 18 and 30 featuring conversations with Patti Shaughnessy and Megan Murphy.

Patti Shaughnessy. photo courtesy of 4th line theatre.

The 2026 summer season will feature the remount of Megan Murphy’s Wild Irish Geese, which had its world premiere at the outdoor theatre in 2025. Shaughnessy provided her guidance in the development of the script as an Indigenous Story Consultant and performs in the show in multiple roles. Directed and dramatuged by Kim Blackwell, the show returns after its sell-out run in August 2025.

On April 18 attendees can learn about Shaughnessy’s career and journey through Wild Irish Geese. This free event will take place at the Peterborough Museum & Archives at 2 p.m.

Megan murphy. photo courtesy of 4th line theatre.

On April 30, Blackwell will sit down with playwright and actor Megan Murphy to discuss Murphy’s career and experience writing and performing Wild Irish Geese. The play tells the story of impoverished Catholic Irish settlers who came to the Peterborough region in the early 19th century under an emigration plan overseen by Peter Robinson, a politician in Upper Canada who represented the riding of York and Simcoe. Around 2,500 settlers, mostly from County Cork in Ireland, settled in Lanark County, Carleton County (today Ottawa), and Scott’s Plains; later renamed Peterborough.

This free event will take place at the Millbrook & District Lion’s Community Centre on April 30 at 7 p.m.

Both Shaughnessy and Murphy are direct descendants of Peter Robinson emigrants.

Seating is limited for both events. To reserve seats, call 4th Line Theatre’s Box Office or contact via email.

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City of Peterborough to Kick Off Irish Heritage Month With Flag-Raising Ceremony on Monday

The Peterborough Canadian Irish Club and Nine Ships 1825 Inc. are hosting a flag-raising event at City Hall starting at 11 a.m. on Monday as part of the celebrations for Irish Heritage Month. 

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Cahal Sweeney, the Vice Consul General of Ireland in Toronto is also attending the event.

The St. Patrick’s Day Parade will be held starting at 2 p.m. on March 15 on George Street, from City Hall, 500 George St. N., travelling south to Lansdowne Street. 

Mayor Jeff Leal has released the following statement recognizing Irish Heritage Month in the City of Peterborough:  

“March is Irish Heritage Month in Canada. It’s a time to recognize, celebrate, and honour the remarkable history, vibrant culture, and lasting contributions of Canadians of Irish descent. 

Irish immigrants and their descendants have helped shape communities across our country, including here in Peterborough. Last year, our community marked the 200th anniversary of the Peter Robinson Irish Immigration, which brought 2,000 settlers to the Nogojiwanong-Peterborough region in 1825. Their legacy has endured. Through their contributions to public service, education, business, arts and culture, and community leadership, Irish Canadians have played an important role in building the city we know today. 

As we recognize Irish Heritage Month, and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, we recognize the deep cultural roots of Irish Canadians in our community and beyond. 

On behalf of the City of Peterborough, I extend my warm wishes to all those celebrating Irish Heritage Month.”

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Peterborough Seedy Sunday Is Back March 8

The 21st Peterborough Seedy Sunday seed sale and swap will take place March 8 at the Peterborough Square Mall.

photo courtesy of Peterborough Seedy Sunday.

The seed sale and swap is a place to get all the knowledge, tools and resources needed to get growing for the season.

There will be a diversity of locally grown heirloom vegetable, flower and herb seeds, vermicomposting supplies and bulbs available for perusing and purchase from local farms and vendors. These locally grown seeds are adapted to the local climate and grown to thrive in your farms and gardens.

Community groups will be displaying information about their work and providing visitors opportunities to get involved with local food, farming, water and environmental programs and to answer questions about gardening, seed saving and growing this season.

Seedy Sunday is a free event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and everyone is welcome.

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