2025 Downtown Holiday Parking Program Raises Over $16,000 For Kawartha Food Share

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The City of Peterborough’s free holiday downtown parking program raised $16,627.85 for Kawartha Food Share (KFS) which was collected from voluntary parking payments, announced on Wednesday.

The Kawartha Food Share currently assists 14,000 people each month through its 36 member agencies, and supports 17,000 schoolchildren at 51 area schools through breakfast and nutrition programs. The free two-hour program first began in 2003. Since then, downtown patrons have helped donate $268,255.50 to Kawartha Food Share. Photo courtesy by David Tuan Bui.

“We are so appreciative to be the recipients of this amazing campaign again this year and love to see community members shopping and visiting our wonderful downtown restaurants, organizations and businesses,” said Ashlee Aitken, KFS general manager. “These funds will allow us to purchase nutritious food items for our member agencies, and help ensure everyone in our community has access to emergency food supports. Thank you so much to the City of Peterborough for their continued support in the fight against hunger,”

The program offered free, two-hour parking in all municipal spaces in the downtown core from Nov. 28 to Dec. 31 and was sponsored by Wolfe Personal Injury Lawyers.

“We’re proud to have sponsored the downtown holiday parking program since 2021 and to continue supporting an initiative that brings people together during the holiday season,” said Bill Wolfe from Wolfe Lawyers. “Seeing the generosity of downtown visitors translate into meaningful support for Kawartha Food Share each year is incredibly rewarding, and we’re pleased to play a small part in helping make the holidays brighter in Peterborough.” 

@ptbo_canada The Downtown Peterborough Holiday Program (sponsored by Wolfe Lawyers) raised $16,627.85 for Kawartha Food Share! All voluntary parking fees collected from Nov. 28 to Dec. 31 went towards the campaign. #ptbocanada #journalism #fyp #news #fundraising ♬ original sound - PTBOCanada

“Peterborough residents once again showed the true spirit of the holiday season through their generosity,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “By choosing to donate while enjoying free downtown parking, people helped raise vital funds for Kawartha Food Share and supported neighbours in need at a time when it matters most.” 

“The downtown holiday parking program demonstrates the incredible impact of community support,” said Town Ward Councillors Alex Bierk and Joy Lachica in a joint statement. “Visitors to the downtown core not only contributed to Kawartha Food Share through their generosity but also helped support local businesses during the busy holiday season. It’s a great example of how coming downtown strengthens both our local economy and our community.”

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Irish Historical Geographer Named Grand Marshall For 26th Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade

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With the 26th Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade set for March 15 at 2 p.m. in Downtown Peterborough, Irish historial geographer Christy Roche has been named this year’s grand marshall, announced at the Jack McGee Chevrolet-Cadillac dealership on Monday afternoon.

Brendan Moher, Peterborough Canadian Irish Club (left) and Tim Burke, St. Patrick’s Day Parade organizer (right) with Christy Roche on a FaceTime call to address the public with Roche’s book, “From Whence They Came: The Peter Robinson Settlers.” Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Roche was born in Cork, Ireland, in 1944. He was educated at Grange National School, Fermoy CBS and University College Cork, from where he graduated with a degree in historical geography. He has written about the Peter Robinson immigrant families for the past 35 years.

Roche has given talks in Europe, Canada, the United States, Central America and has contributed historical articles to local newspapers and magazınes. Roche has written and edited several books, including “The Ford of the Apples,” “A Glimpse of Grange” and “From Whence They Came: The Peter Robinson Settlers.”

Members of Nine Ships 1825 suggested Roche to the parade organizer, Tim Burke, who immediately was on board with the recommendation. Selecting Roche continues to ride on the success of last year’s event, which celebrated the 200th anniversary of Peter Robinson, who supervised the emigration of impoverished Irish families to Upper Canada said Burke.

“He’s about as authentic as you can possibly get,” he explained. “We wanted to continue with the momentum they’ve (Nine Ships 1825) created, featuring our Irish heritage, as well as everything Peterborough has to offer.”

The parade is operating in its 26th year, a project Burke wants to continue, as Peterborough is rich in Irish heritage and he believes a parade like this does not exist until you get to around the Toronto area.

“I want to continue building the St. Patrick's Day Parade,” he said. “It's a tradition in Peterborough and it's part of our fabric.”

@ptbo_canada Historical geographer Christy Roche is this year’s Grand Marshall for Peterborough’s 2026 St. Patrick’s Day parade! #ptbocanada #journalism #news #fyp #stpatricksday ♬ Irish Dance - Lofi Danny

Returning to the parade is a 5K run along George Street before the parade to raise money for Right to Heal to help those with mental health and addiction issues. The run begins at 1:30 p.m., starting at Roger Neilson Way and turning around at McDonnel Street before completing the circuit at George Street north of Lansdowne Street.

To sign up for the run, contact Dave Dame of Runner’s Life at 705-876-8960 or online. Donations can be given online at Right to Heal’s website.

A flag-raising will occur at City Hall on March 9 at 11 a.m. to commemorate St. Patrick’s Day.

Over 70 entries for the parade have been submitted and more are expected to join.

To register for the parade, visit the parade’s website and apply. For more information, contact Tim Burke at timburke77@yahoo.com.

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City of Peterborough's Curbside Christmas Tree Collection To Continue Into February In Some Regions

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The City of Peterborough’s curbside collection of natural Christmas trees continues through February.

file photo.

Collection has seen delays in some areas due to recent snowfall and winter maintenance operations. 

Trees have already been collected in the north end, the east city and the central areas. Collections in the west end and south end remain a work in progress.

Snow removal activities and compacted snowbanks can make it difficult for crews to locate and retrieve trees according to the City. Residents are reminded to ensure trees placed for collection are not buried, remain visible and are accessible at the curb. 

To prepare your tree for composting: 

  • Remove all decorations, lights, tinsel and plastic bags 

  • Place the tree at the curb in a clearly visible and accessible location 

  • Keep trees out of snowbanks and away from sidewalks and roadways 

Collection does not follow regular curbside schedules and residents do not need to call to request pick-up.  

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Peterborough DBIA Holiday Shopping Passport Initiative Shows Thousands of Dollars Spent Locally

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The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) has announced the prize winners of its 2025/2026 Holiday Shopping Passport draw and the Holiday Window Contest, celebrating a season of community connection, local spending and support for downtown Peterborough businesses.

Grand prize winner Katy Shufelt. photo courtesy of the peterborough dbia.

The Holiday Shopping Passport program encourages residents to keep their holiday spending local. Shoppers earn a stamp for every $10 spent at participating businesses and can enter completed passports for a chance to win one of three $500 early bird prizes or the $1,500 grand prize in Boro Gift Cards; “downtown dollars” accepted at over 100 locations throughout downtown Peterborough. 

Katy Shufelt has been named the grand prize winner of the Holiday Shopping Passport draw. Three early bird winners were also drawn throughout the season: Wayne Jackson, Gail Edlinger and Kim McWilliams.

The grand prize draw took place on Wednesday at GRVTY Studio in East City, where Shufelt’s completed passport was selected. She has won a $1,500 downtown shopping spree in Boro Gift Cards.

“I absolutely love shopping downtown, there are so many great stores,” she said. “My kids laugh at me because every year I say I’m going to win, and after 20 years, I finally did.”

In the spirit of giving back, Shufelt has chosen to donate a portion of her prize to Wild Rock’s ComPassion Project, a community-driven initiative that supports local organizations working at the intersection of outdoor recreation, social justice and equity in Peterborough.

“The program continues to foster community spirit, increase foot traffic and local spending and strengthen relationships between local businesses and their customers during the busy holiday season,” said the Peterborough DBIA in a press release. “With participation from over 200 downtown businesses, the Holiday Shopping Passport program continues to be one of the DBIA’s most widely supported seasonal initiatives.”

Beyond shopping, the DBIA’s Holiday Window Contest transformed downtown into a festive, walkable winter experience. This year’s theme “Snowglobe Come to Life” inspired businesses to showcase their creativity through elaborate window displays.

The contest was judged by members of Peterborough’s arts community, including a representative from the Art Gallery of Peterborough: Briar Sutherland, Josh Morley (Miskopwagan Asin) and Ashley Hall.

The 2025/2026 Holiday Window Contest Winners included a tie for first between Lavender Moon and Kingan Home Hardware, and second place going to Brants Basics.

Winners received Boro Gift Cards, continuing the cycle of local support.

“We know people are being more intentional about where and how they spend, especially during the holidays,” said Nour Mazloum, Executive Director of the Peterborough DBIA. “Choosing to shop local is a meaningful decision, and the Holiday Shopping Passport makes it even easier. Every local purchase has a ripple effect by supporting jobs, small business owners, and a downtown that continues to serve as a gathering place for our City.”

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City of Peterborough's Curbside Christmas Tree Collection Taking Place Throughout January

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The City of Peterborough’s curbside collection of natural Christmas trees is underway throughout the month of January.

file photo.

Collection takes place weather permitting and does not follow regular curbside collection schedules. Residents do not need to call to request collection.  

Trees will be composted, and all decorations and tinsel must be removed.

Residents are asked to place trees at the curb in a clearly visible location within safe reach for collection staff. Trees must not be in plastic bags. The City asks that residents avoid snowbanks and ensure that trees do not get buried in snow.

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U14 AAA Jr. Petes Work With YES Shelter to Sponsor Families in Need For the Holidays

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The U14 AAA Jr. Petes team filled their carts for those in need this holiday season, working with the YES Shelter to sponsor two local families.

The U14 Petes are playing the Heron Perth Great Lakes Cup in Stratford from Jan. 16 to 18 in their next major event. Photo courtesy of Chad Birkhof.

The Petes chose to put gifts under the tree for others this year instead of their traditional secret Santa gift exchange.

Through the YES Shelter, the team was given two local families to buy for. The boys shopped for winter gear, toys and festive pyjamas.

“It’s the one time of the year for us to really help out where it's meaningful to someone’s family,” said Chad Birkhof, U14 Petes head coach.

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Mapleridge Recreation Centre’s Holiday House Tour Outperforms Expectations and Raises $15,000

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The Mapleridge Recreation Centre’s inaugural Holiday House Tour was a big hit with the community, selling out 250 tickets ahead of its Nov. 15 event and raising $15,000.

Photo Courtesy of Mapleridge Recreation centre.

Local designers in Peterborough’s west end embellished their homes with festive decor. It was the combined efforts of volunteers, homeowners, businesses, interior designers and corporate sponsors that contributed to the event’s turnout according to Pat Hooper, Mapleridge Recreation Centre’s Community Chair.

“My sincere thanks to the many people and businesses who supported us in making this such a successful event,” Hooper said.

In addition to fundraising efforts such as the House Tour, Mapleridge is funded by donations, as well as municipal and provincial grants.

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Loonies on the Street Fundraiser Returns: Raising Funds for Kawartha Food Share

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The 25th annual Loonies on the Street fundraiser in support of Kawartha Food Share returned to Peterborough Square at the corner of George and Simcoe Streets on Friday morning.

The Peterborough Century 21 Lakers donated $1,000 towards the cause, while the Kinsmen Club of Peterborough gave $10,000 as part of their TV Bingo proceeds.

Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP, donated $250 and challenged Emma Harrison, Peterborough-Kawartha MP and Mayor Jeff Leal to match his donation. If theirs exceeds Smith’s, the MPP will match the increase.

A final count of all proceeds is expected to be released next week.

Kawartha Food Share is a central collection and distribution warehouse that partners with 37 member agencies, including food banks, food cupboards and other food action programs in the City and County of Peterborough.

Donations can also be accepted online.

@ptbo_canada The Bucket Brigade was back this morning for Kawartha Food Share’s 25th annual Loonies on the Street fundraiser at Peterborough Square! 🎅 #PTBOCanada #peterboroughontario ♬ Christmas - Axby

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Peterborough Police Service's 19th Annual CopShop Gives 23 Kids a Holiday Shopping Spree at Lansdowne Place

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There were 23 kids who got to do holiday shopping with Peterborough Police Services during the 19th annual CopShop at Lansdowne Place on Thursday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The children enjoyed a limo ride from school and were partnered with a Peterborough Police Officer.

The officers will serve as personal shoppers for the kids and each will receive a $200 Gift Card to shop around. The young shoppers also received a Peterborough Petes goodie bag and winter boots donated from Sign-a-fied.

“CopShop is an event so many of our officers and civilian members look forward to each year,” said Detective Constable Mike Peckham of the Peterborough Police Service. “This year, we have about two dozen officers plus civilian members volunteering their time to build positive relationships and spend time with young people from the community in a fun way.”

“CopShop is our favourite day of the year,” says Helen Edwards, Lansdowne Place general manager. '“It’s magical to see the joy on the children’s faces as they shop and share in the holiday spirit. This event brings holiday cheer to our Centre and creates memories that last a lifetime.”

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Quaker Foods City Square to Hold Third-Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony This Friday Evening

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Quaker Foods City Square is getting a little brighter as the community is invited to the third-annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Quaker Foods City Square on Friday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Photo courtesy ofthe Peterborough DBIA.

Put on by the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) and the City of Peterborough, the event features family-friendly activities, festive entertainment and local vendors.

Attendees can browse goods from local makers, enjoy hot chocolate and BeaverTails pastries, and celebrate with live DJ entertainment throughout the evening.

“The tree lighting has become a cherished gathering point for our community to kick off the holiday season,” said Nour Mazloum, Peterborough DBIA executive director. “There is something very special about gathering together downtown on a December evening to enjoy local treats and warm drinks, discover unique gifts from our businesses, take in the music and watch the tree light up downtown with your neighbours.”

Mayor Jeff Leal will light the tree at 5:30 p.m. The event will also feature the return of the illuminated ‘Peterborough’ sign.

“The tree lighting ceremony is a wonderful reminder of the warmth, connection and generosity that define our City,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “I invite everyone to join us at Quaker Foods City Square as we come together to share in the holiday spirit, celebrate one another and welcome a season filled with light and hope.”

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