Peterborough Musicfest Turns Up the Volume on Local Talent With Expanded Future Sound Series

By Scott Arnold

More emerging artists will take the stage at Del Crary Park this summer as Peterborough Musicfest expands its Future Sound Series for the 2026 season.

cogeco crew all set for the return of the future sound series at peterborough musicfest

Peterborough Musicfest has announced the return of the Future Sound Series presented by Cogeco, with the showcase growing to 14 performances across the festival’s 16 concert nights.

After debuting in 2025, the series quickly became a fan favourite by giving local and up-and-coming performers the chance to open for the festival’s headline acts.

The performances will run from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm on select Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout the summer, featuring artists from across Peterborough and the Kawarthas spanning genres including folk, indie-pop, country, rock, reggae and alternative music.

Organizers say this year’s lineup includes a mix of returning favourites and new performers from around the region. Featured performances from Graeme Jonez and James N. Wilson are also being supported through The Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund.

Cogeco Manager of Programming and Community Relations David Feeley said the company is excited to continue supporting a program that helps spotlight the next generation of local musicians while strengthening community culture.

Peterborough Musicfest Senior Events Manager Matt Williams said the series has become one of the festival’s most exciting additions and provides local artists with a major opportunity to perform in front of Musicfest audiences before the nightly headliners take the stage.

The Future Sound Series is part of Musicfest’s ongoing effort to support live music and provide barrier-free cultural experiences for the community.

Now entering its 39th season, Peterborough Musicfest remains Canada’s longest-running free admission music festival, drawing crowds to Del Crary Park each summer for a mix of internationally recognized performers, Canadian talent and local artists.

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

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