City of Peterborough's Canada Day Fireworks Rescheduled For Aug. 1

The fireworks show initially scheduled for Canada Day has been rescheduled to Aug. 1 for approximately 9:30 p.m. at Del Crary Park, announced on Thursday.

File Photo.

The fireworks start following the Peterborough Musicfest concert.  

Temporary road closures will be in effect for the fireworks.

The following streets will be closed from noon to 10:30 p.m.:

• Perry Street from the east side of George Street to the west side of Crescent Street  

• Lake Street from the east side of George Street to the west side of Crescent Street  

• Crescent Street from the north side of Romaine Street to the south side of Perry Street  

• Lock Street from the north side of Romaine Street to the south side of Crescent Street  

Local traffic will still be permitted to access the areas within the road closures. 

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City of Peterborough Promoting Water Safety During Drowning Prevention Week

The City of Peterborough is encouraging residents and visitors to learn more about prioritizing water safety during National Drowning Prevention Week, from Sunday until July 25.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

This year’s theme is Prepare to be Water Smart. The City is hosting events throughout the week to promote water safety and drowning prevention.  

Colouring pages and crossword puzzles will be available at the Chelsea Gardens wading pool, located at Southlawn Drive and Severn Road, on Sunday, July 19. Lifeguards will be holding “Within Arms Reach” drowning education activities for participants.   

Residents are welcome to visit Beavermead Beach from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, July 22 to get fitted for and receive a free lifejacket. Free lifejackets will be available while supplies last.   

Children of all ages are welcome to make their own water smart bracelets and learn about water safety from the City’s lifeguards at the John Taylor Memorial Park wading pool, located at McKellar and St. Catherine’s streets, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on July 23.  

All residents are welcome to join the City of Peterborough, Peterborough Police Service, Peterborough County OPP, and other vendors at Riverview Park and Zoo from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on July 24 for an afternoon of activities and drowning-prevention education.  

Pop-up activities are also taking place at the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre, Fleming College, Trent University and the Balsillie Family YMCA throughout the week.  

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Saturday's Lock & Paddle Event Cancelled Due to Air Quality Concerns

Parks Canada has cancelled Lock & Paddle, which was scheduled for Saturday at the Peterborough Lift Lock National Historic Site, due to air quality concerns.

Photo courtesy of Parks Canada.

According to Parks Canada, their decision was made out of an abundance of caution due to forecasted weather conditions and concerns about air quality, with the health and safety of participants, volunteers and staff remaining our highest priority.

As this event depends on the availability of the Peterborough Lift Lock and on operational requirements during the navigation season, Lock & Paddle will not be rescheduled this year.

Parks Canada released the following statement:

“We recognize that many paddlers and community members were looking forward to this unique event, and we appreciate your understanding.

Thank you to everyone who planned to join us, as well as our event partners and volunteers, for their continued support.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back to the Peterborough Lift Lock for future events and opportunities to experience this remarkable National Historic Site.”

In addition to Lock & Paddle, the Beavermead Beach Party, which runs alongside the event, has also been cancelled.

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Lakefield Jazz, Art & Craft Festival Returns to Isabel Morris Park On July 11

The Lakefield Jazz, Art & Craft Festival is back this year to bring a full day of live music, artisan shopping, local food and community celebration at the Isabel Morris Park on July 11 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Selwyn Township.

The festival combines live jazz performances with handcrafted works from artisans and makers from across the region.

This year’s live Jazz Performances Festival lineup is as follows:

• 11 a.m. – Carpe Noctem

• 12:50 p.m. – The Dixie Demons

• 2:40 p.m. – Carling Stephen

• 4:30 p.m. – Steve Holt Jazz Impact Quintet

• 6:20 p.m. – SNAGGLE

• 8:10 p.m. – The Keith Guy Band

Visitors can browse a curated selection of artisan and craft vendors featuring original artwork, pottery, jewellery, textiles, woodworking, home décor and more.

A variety of food and beverage vendors will be on-site selling gourmet meals and sweet treats to refreshing beverages, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.

Admission is $12 at the gate (cash and debit accepted).

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City of Peterborough Reschedule Canada Day Fireworks For a Future Date

Due to weather conditions, the City of Peterborough’s cancelled Canada Day fireworks display is being rescheduled to a date to be determined, announced on Thursday.

Canada Day celebrations in Peterborough drew strong community participation throughout the day. Festivities featured more than 20 parade entries, over 30 vendors, live entertainment and a vibrant lineup of community groups and performers at Del Crary Park.  File photo.

“A severe thunderstorm had just swept through Peterborough and the Environment Canada forecast still showed the possibility of thunderstorms in the evening,” said Brendan Wedley, Director, Strategic Communications and Service Peterborough. “Based on the conditions at the time, the difficult decision was made to cancel the fireworks display. The City appreciates it was disappointing for those who were planning to see the fireworks and is working with the fireworks provider to reschedule for a date later this summer.”

Once finalized, the City says a rescheduled fireworks date and event details will be announced.

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Peterborough DBIA Launches Expanded Second Season of Movies at the Park

The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) is bringing back Movies at the Park for a second expanded season, a free movie screening series held at Quaker Foods City Square for eight dates, announced on Thursday.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough DBIA.

The series features eight weeks of movies every Tuesday evening from July through August.

Movies will begin at dusk (approximately 8:30 p.m in July and 8:00 p.m in August) and are free to attend. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, family, and friends to enjoy the movies.

2026 Movies at the Park Schedule:

• July 7 – Secret Life of Pets

• July 14 – Dirty Dancing

• July 21 – Grown Ups

• July 28 – Jurassic Park

• August 4 – Paddington in Peru

• August 11 – Back to the Future

• August 18 – 007 Skyfall

• August 25 – How to Train Your Dragon

In addition to the screenings, local businesses are offering snacks, beverages and treats. Admission is free and no registration is required.

“Downtown should be a place where people gather, connect, and create memories together,” said Nour Mazloum, DBIA executive director. “Movies at the Park helps bring that vision to life by transforming Quaker Foods City Square into a welcoming community gathering place for all ages. We're proud to offer a free and accessible experience that brings people downtown and creates opportunities to connect with one another throughout the summer.”

Movies at the Park is made possible through the support of Peterborough Tourism, the City of Peterborough destination marketing program, sponsors and community partners.

“Creating high-quality visitor experiences means ensuring our public spaces and events are welcoming, accessible, and easy to enjoy,” said Stoyan Barakov, City of Peterborough Manager of Cultural Services. “Initiatives like this strengthen community connections while enhancing the experience for locals and visitors alike. Peterborough Tourism is pleased to support the Peterborough DBIA in creating a fun and friendly atmosphere for Movies at the Park by providing the outdoor screen and promotional support.”

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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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