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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City of Peterborough Seeking Performers, Vendors and Community Groups For Canada Day Celebration

The City of Peterborough is seeking performers, makers, and food vendors to apply to be part of this year’s Canada Day celebrations.  

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The City annual Canada Day celebration takes place on July 1 at Del Crary Park, following the Canada Day parade. The parade will begin at 10 a.m. The celebration in Del Crary Park will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.   

Local artisans, food vendors, entertainers and community organizations are invited to apply to be part of a vibrant, family-friendly event along the waterfront. 

This year, a new partnership with Musicfest will see performers take to the stages in Del Crary Park in the afternoon.

Those interested in participating can apply online. Applications can also be picked up at Service Peterborough, City Hall.

The deadline to apply to be a vendor is June 11 at 4:30 p.m.  

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Toronto Blue Jays Watch Parties To Be Held at Quaker Foods City Square Starting Saturday

The City of Peterborough is cheering on the Toronto Blue Jays with a World Series watch party at the Quaker Foods City Square starting on Saturday and for the duration of the postseason.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Events on Saturday will take place rain or shine with a live stream of the game beginning at 8 p.m., following Halloween in the Booro festivities already planned throughout downtown Peterborough. The World Series Watch Party is being organized by the Peterborough DBIA, with the City of Peterborough providing financial support for the screen, sound and servicing to the Park. 

“Downtown Peterborough is at its best when people come together to celebrate and connect,” said Nour Mazloum, Peterborough DBIA executive director. “We're thrilled to partner with the City of Peterborough to host these community watch parties for the Toronto Blue Jays as they advance to the World Series. This is a wonderful example of how downtown can serve as a place where people come together to share in special moments of excitement, pride and celebration.”

The public square on Charlotte Street will feature a mega screen live-streaming the game as the Toronto Blue Jays compete against the Los Angeles Dodgers for the World Series Championship. Snacks, vendors, and a ‘The Boro’ merchandise booth will be available. Free parking is available after 6 p.m. along the street and in the adjacent King Street Parkade.

“We’re looking forward to joining communities across Canada in cheering on the Toronto Blue Jays in a proudly Peterborough way – surrounded by community in downtown’s Quaker Foods City Square,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “I encourage community members and visitors to don their blue and white and mark this historic sports moment as we watch the Jays compete to become World Series Champions.”

Fans are asked to bring their own chairs, blankets and dress for the weather. All attendees are encouraged to wear their blue and white and/or or Blue Jays apparel while cheering for the team.

World Series Watch Parties are planned at the Quaker Foods City Square for Game 3 on Oct. 27 and Oct. 28. Additional watch parties are scheduled for games five to seven, depending on the results of the first four games.

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City to Temporarily Close Roads For Canada Day Fireworks

Temporary road closures will be in place from noon to 10:30 p.m. to ensure public safety for the Canada Day fireworks display on Tuesday.

File Photo.

The following are the affected roads:

  • 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

The fireworks display will take place at 9:30 p.m.

Detour routes will be in place.

The City requests that everyone follow all signage related to road closures and on-street parking restrictions in the area.

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List of City Services For Canada Day 2025

Many City services and facilities will operate under holiday hours or be closed on Canada Day this Tuesday.

File photo.

The Canada Day ceremonies start at 10 a.m. in front of City Hall. The decorated bike contest judging will take place at 10:45 a.m. The parade begins at 11 a.m., departing from George Street North near City Hall and proceeding south on George Street to Millennium Park. 

The celebration continues in Millennium Park, featuring an afternoon of free, family-friendly fun that includes music and dance, face painting, storytelling, a cultural marketplace, and food and beverage vendors. This event will run from noon to 6 p.m. 

The City will host a fireworks display over Little Lake starting at 9:30 p.m. on July 1, following the Peterborough Musicfest concert at Del Crary Park. 

City Hall offices, including Service Peterborough, Building Services and the Clerk’s Office, will be closed on July 1. Online services are available at peterborough.ca

The curbside collection for Zones 1 and 2, which typically takes place on Tuesdays, shifts back one day to Monday. Residents are asked to place green bins, recycling and garbage (Zone 2 only) to the curb by 7 a.m. Tuesday.

There are no changes to the curbside collection schedule for the Downtown Business Improvement Area. 

The City-County Landfill at 1260 Bensfort Rd. will be closed on July 1.  

Peterborough Regional Airport will be open regular hours, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The Art Gallery of Peterborough will be closed on Canada Day.

The Peterborough Public Library and the Miskin Law Community Complex branch will be closed on Tuesday.

The Peterborough Museum and Archives will be open noon to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, July 1. 

The Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre and the Miskin Law Community Complex will be open from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. on July 1. Summer hours will be in effect for the Sport and Wellness Centre starting Wednesday, with daily operation from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. until Sept. 1. 

The Kinsmen Civic Centre, Healthy Planet Arena, Peterborough Memorial Centre, Grant Thornton Box Office, McDonnel Street Community Centre including Peterborough Youth Space, and the Recreation Facility Booking office will be closed on Tuesday

Lifeguards will be on duty at Beavermead Beach from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. There is no lifeguard supervision provided at Rogers Cove. Peterborough Public Health tests the water at local beaches.

Splash pads in City parks are open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. The splash pad at the Riverview Park and Zoo is open from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

Lifeguards supervise City wading pools daily from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.  

Customer service at Peterborough Marina will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

The Riverview Park and Zoo is open from 8:30 a.m. to dusk. Guest Services is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Miniature train rides will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Otter Enrichment takes place at 1:30 p.m.and a Meet the Keeper session with Torti the African Spurred Tortoise will take place at 2:30 p.m. The Café is closed.  

The Provincial Offences office at 99 Simcoe St. will be closed on Tuesday. Fine payments can be made online at peterborough.ca/POA. 

Peterborough Transit will operate on a Sunday/Holiday service schedule on Tuesday. Temporary detours will be in place for some routes during the Canada Day Parade.  

The Customer Service desk will be open from 9 a.m. to noon and 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday.

The Social Services office will be closed on Tuesday. From Wednesday, August 30, to Friday, office hours will be 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.  

City-operated child care centres will be closed on July 1.

Emergency shelter services remain open: to access emergency shelter services outside of regular business hours or on holidays, please call After Hours service at 705-926-0096.

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Film Selected For Canada Day Movie Night

The City of Peterborough’s poll for the free Canada Day Movie Night has selected Fly Away Home as the feature film, held at Quaker Foods City Square on June 30.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

A total of 500 votes were cast to select the film for the City of Peterborough’s Canada Day Outdoor Movie Night. Fly Away Home was the winner with 217 votes.  

Other options included The Legend of Sarila, Kayak to Klemtu and Cheaper by the Dozen. Each movie has a Canadian connection through cast and crew, filming location, or theme. The poll was open from June 9 to June 13.

Quaker Foods will provide snacks and treats for the evening, and the City will offer free popcorn. Movie-goers are encouraged to arrive by 8 p.m. as supplies are limited.

The City reminds movie-watchers to bring an outdoor chair and water. 

The movie night will kick off the Canada Day festivities on June 30 at dusk (around 9 p.m.). The City is asking residents to bring lawn chairs, blankets and snacks to settle in. Free popcorn is handed out before the show.

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Public Asked to Select Film For 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.

The movie night will kick off the Canada Day festivities on June 30 at dusk (around 9 p.m.). The City is asking residents to bring lawn chairs, blankets and snacks to settle in. Free popcorn is handed out before the show.  

The following are the film choices:

The Legend of Sarila

An animated adventure set in the Arctic, this film follows three Inuit teens on a quest to find the legendary land of Sarila to save their starving clan.
Featuring the voices of Christopher Plummer and Geneviève Bujold, it's Canada's first 3D animated feature film.

Kayak to Klemtu

A heartfelt drama about 14-year-old Ella, who embarks on a 500-kilometre kayak journey to her ancestral home in British Columbia to take a stand against a proposed pipeline project.
A heartfelt Canadian production rooted in environmental justice and Indigenous resilience.

Cheaper by the Dozen

A comedy about Tom and Kate Baker, who juggle their careers and raising 12 children. Though not a Canadian film, the director Shawn Levy was born in Canada and is a citizen of both Canada and the United States.

Fly Away Home

After losing her mother, a young girl helps orphaned geese learn to migrate south. Filmed partly in Ontario and starring Canadian actress Anna Paquin, this inspiring story is based on real events.

The poll is available online, with voting closing on Friday at 4 p.m. 

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Canada Day Parade Is Still Happening, Says City of Peterborough

The City of Peterborough says it still plans to host a Canada Day parade.

File Photo.

The City released a statement regarding the following:

“It was initially called a “procession” when the call for entries went out a couple of weeks ago as a way to reflect that the parade would be a bit different than previous years. The community was invited to not only watch the parade, but to join in by walking down George Street alongside their fellow community members. Community groups, businesses, and performers were still invited to put in entries.

The planning for Canada Day festivities is in full swing as the community gets ready to celebrate the country’s birthday. The plans have been informed by community feedback following last year’s event. The City heard the feedback over the last week on the plans for this year’s parade and has updated the plans to once again include vehicles in the parade.”

Applications for parade entries need to be submitted by the end of the day on June 8, 2025. The parade entry form is available online.

Original article below:

The City of Peterborough invites the public to celebrate our nation on Canada Day on July 1, at Millennium Park.

This year’s festivities will begin with a community procession from City Hall to Millennium Park starting at 10 a.m., featuring a decorated bike contest for participants of all ages. Prizes will be awarded for the most creative and playful designs.

The community procession is an inclusive and informal walk open to individuals, families, and local organizations who wish to walk, bike, or roll from City Hall to the park together.

Community groups, clubs, and businesses are welcome to join and are encouraged to register using the Performer/Participant form available online. Please note that this is not a traditional parade and no motorized vehicles or large floats are permitted.

The celebration continues at Millennium Park from noon until 6 p.m. with an afternoon of music, performances, food, cultural activities, and family programming. The event will conclude with a Peterborough Musicfest concert at Del Crary Park and fireworks over Little Lake at 9:30 p.m.

June 30 has a free outdoor movie night at Quaker Foods City Square starting at dusk.

Both events are free and everyone is welcome to attend.

Event highlights include:

  • Community procession with bike contest

  • Live performances by local artists and entertainers

  • Kids’ activities and family zones

  • Food and beverage vendors hosted by the Downtown Business Improvement Area

  • Interactive cultural displays and information booths

  • Evening concert presented by Peterborough Musicfest

  • Fireworks finale over Little Lake

Forms are now available online for those interested in participating as Performers, Arts and Crafts Vendors, or Food and Beverage Vendors. The application deadline is May 30 at 4 p.m.

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Roll, Stroll and Celebrate Canada Day With the City

The City of Peterborough invites the public to celebrate our nation on Canada Day on July 1, at Millennium Park.

File Photo.

This year’s festivities will begin with a community procession from City Hall to Millennium Park starting at 10 a.m., featuring a decorated bike contest for participants of all ages. Prizes will be awarded for the most creative and playful designs.

The community procession is an inclusive and informal walk open to individuals, families, and local organizations who wish to walk, bike, or roll from City Hall to the park together.

Community groups, clubs, and businesses are welcome to join and are encouraged to register using the Performer/Participant form available online. Please note that this is not a traditional parade and no motorized vehicles or large floats are permitted.

The celebration continues at Millennium Park from noon until 6 p.m. with an afternoon of music, performances, food, cultural activities, and family programming. The event will conclude with a Peterborough Musicfest concert at Del Crary Park and fireworks over Little Lake at 9:30 p.m.

June 30 has a free outdoor movie night at Quaker Foods City Square starting at dusk.

Both events are free and everyone is welcome to attend.

Event highlights include:

  • Community procession with bike contest

  • Live performances by local artists and entertainers

  • Kids’ activities and family zones

  • Food and beverage vendors hosted by the Downtown Business Improvement Area

  • Interactive cultural displays and information booths

  • Evening concert presented by Peterborough Musicfest

  • Fireworks finale over Little Lake

Forms are now available online for those interested in participating as Performers, Arts and Crafts Vendors, or Food and Beverage Vendors. The application deadline is May 30 at 4 p.m.

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Road Closures and Fireworks In Place For Peterborough's Canada Day Parade

This year’s Canada Day Parade see road closures and fireworks during the ceremony slated for this Monday.

Photo by Samantha Bianco.

The parade’s 30 entries will travel down George Street from City Hall, 500 George St. N., to Del Crary Park next to Little Lake starting at noon.

Pre-parade activities start at 10 a.m. at Confederation Square across from City Hall and include a bike decorating contest, games, giveaways and temporary Canada Day tattoos and flags.

Peterborough Pop Ensemble will perform starting around 10:30 a.m. at City Hall and will lead the crowd in signing O Canada to kick off the parade procession.

Morello’s Your Independent Grocer will donate ‘Happy Birthday Canada’ cupcakes to share with the crowd at City Hall ahead of the parade.

Temporary road closures for the event will be in place from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.:

  • Murray Street – from the east side of Aylmer Street to the west side of Water Street

  • George Street – from the south side of McDonnel Street to the north side of Murray Street

George Street from Brock Street to Rink Street is being treated as a rolling road closure while the parade is underway.

As part of the Canada Day celebrations, a fireworks display provided by the City will be held over Little Lake from 9:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Monday following the Peterborough Musicfest concert at Del Crary Park featuring the Road Apples, a tribute to The Tragically Hip.

There will be a temporary road closure on Crescent Street near the T-wharf before and during the fireworks display. Access to local traffic will be maintained.

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