New Peterborough Visitor Centre to Open at the Lift Lock On June 26

Peterborough Tourism with the City of Peterborough is preparing to open the doors of the Peterborough Visitor Centre at the Lift Lock on June 26.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The Visitor Centre location will be an information hub where visitors and locals can access information about attractions, experiences and local businesses in Peterborough.

“This new Visitor Centre at the Lift Lock represents an exciting step forward in how we welcome people to Peterborough,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “The Peterborough Lift Lock is one of our most iconic attractions and a celebrated National Historic Site of Canada. As the largest urban centre along the waterway, our connection to the water is central to both our community identity and visitor experience. This new space strengthens that connection and invites exploration year-round.”

Located at 353 Hunter St. E. at the base of the Lift Lock, the Visitor Centre is accessible to those travelling by boat, car, bike or on foot.

As of June 26, the Peterborough Visitor Centre at the Lift Lock will be open year-round. Here, visitors and residents can access the tools and inspiration to explore the city and surrounding region.

In the coming months, programming will be developed that celebrates the area’s culture, heritage, and natural environment, including Indigenous perspectives, with opportunities to amplify diverse voices and stories.

“It’s so wonderful to see a space that makes it easier for people to connect with Peterborough and one of Canada’s most iconic landmarks,” said Emma Harrison, Peterborough-Kawartha MP. “The Visitor Centre at the Lift Lock will once again be a welcoming, accessible hub where visitors and community members can come together, explore, and experience all that our vibrant region has to offer. By reopening the doors to more inclusive and engaging ways to discover the Trent–Severn Waterway, this initiative helps bring people closer to the stories, culture, and connections that make Peterborough so special. It’s also great to see the centre being run by people who know it best, bringing local knowledge and passion to the experience.”

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Drop-in Sessions For Glenn Pagett Park and Whitefield Park Run Next Week

The City of Peterborough invites residents to drop-in sessions for Glenn Pagett Park and Whitefield Park to share their ideas and thoughts on improvements to the parks take place next Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

Both drop-in sessions take place at the Miskin Law Community Complex.

The drop-in session for Glenn Pagett Park takes place from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. To learn more about this project and to fill out an online survey , residents can visit the Connect Peterborough project page at connectptbo.ca/pagett.   

The drop-in session for Whitefield Park takes place from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. To learn more about Whitefield Park and to fill out an online survey, visit connectptbo.ca/whitefieldpark. 

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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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City of Peterborough Waives Large Item Pickup Fee

As part of the Clean Streets Peterborough initiative, the City of Peterborough is introducing a free Large Item Pickup pilot program for the remainder of 2026.

File Photo.

According to the City, the pilot will help evaluate participation levels, service demand and overall program performance while making the service more accessible to residents. 

Collections must be booked in advance. Residents can select a collection week when booking and place eligible items at the curb during the designated set out time for collection. 

Collection can be scheduled online at peterborough.ca/pickup. Bookings can also be made by phone at 705-742-7777 or in person at Service Peterborough, City Hall.

Large Item Pickup is intended for items that are too big or heavy for regular curbside collection. Eligible large items are defined as those weighing more than 13.6 kg (30 lbs) and longer than 1 m (3 ft). Collection is offered monthly from April through September. 

“This pilot makes it easier for residents to dispose of large household items while reducing barriers to accessing the service,” said  Councillor Don Vassiliadis and Councillor Keith Riel, Municipal Operations Co-Chairs, in a joint statement. “Removing the fee gives us an opportunity to see how the change affects participation and demand, providing valuable insight into how the service is used.” 

Large Item Pickup will be available during the following collection weeks: 

• June 22     

• July 27 

• Aug. 24

• Sept. 28

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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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The City Taking New Initiatives to Support a Cleaner Peterborough

The City is taking new measures to make waste disposal easier, address illegal dumping, and improve the cleanliness of parks, streets, and public spaces through the Clean Streets Peterborough program.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

This initiative responds to concerns identified through the Clean Streets Peterborough survey, community feedback and operational experience, including illegal dumping, overflowing public bins, improper waste set-outs, bulky items left at the curb, and waste accumulation in parks, neighbourhoods and other public spaces. 

“We’ve heard from residents that illegal dumping, overflowing bins and waste in public spaces are concerns,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “This program responds by making proper disposal easier, improving education and reporting tools, and strengthening our ability to keep public spaces clean and welcoming for everyone.” 

The program is designed to reduce barriers to proper waste disposal, improve access to waste services and support cleaner public spaces across the city. 

The program includes: 

• waiving large article collection fees in 2026 

• reducing the cost of a replacement green bin cart from $88.49 to $35.40 

• temporarily increasing residential garbage bag limits from four bags to eight bags until Dec. 31, 2027 

• enhancing public education, community engagement and outreach around proper waste disposal 

• targeted outreach to landlords, property managers, businesses and multi-residential properties 

• improving waste reporting tools 

• additional park cleanup support, a targeted surveillance camera pilot at selected parks and public spaces, and increased monitoring and enforcement in problem areas

Waste-related concerns have increased across Peterborough, particularly in parks, public spaces, downtown areas and locations where public waste bins are being used for household garbage. Community feedback, service requests, operational experience, and ongoing public engagement have identified several contributing factors, including missed collection days, high article collection fees, bag limits, and limited disposal options for some residents.  

The program combines service improvements, education, outreach, monitoring and enforcement to strengthen reporting and response processes and support cleaner parks, streets and public spaces. 

Program results will be monitored through waste collection data, tonnage reporting, large-article collection volumes, waste collected from parks and public receptacles, complaints and reporting trends, enforcement activity, and ongoing community feedback. This information will help shape future decisions about waste collection services, participation in organics programs, multi-residential servicing, public-space waste management and long-term landfill planning.

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City of Peterborough Welcomes New Director, Asset Management and Capital Planning

City of Peterborough has selected Ian Boland as the new Director, Asset Management and Capital Planning.

LinkedIn Photo.

Bloand has more than 15 years of municipal infrastructure and engineering experience to his new role, with expertise in asset management, capital planning, water resource systems, transportation planning and climate resilience.  

Ian has also served as Acting Director, Asset Management and Capital Planning, and Manager, Water Resource Systems , with the City of Peterborough. 

“Ian brings a tremendous depth of knowledge, leadership and experience to this role, along with a strong commitment to collaboration and long-term planning,” said Blair Nelson, Commissioner of Infrastructure, Planning and Growth Management with the City. “Having already served the organization in several key leadership positions, Ian has demonstrated a clear understanding of the infrastructure needs and priorities of our community. I’m excited to welcome him into this role and look forward to working together as we continue advancing important initiatives that support sustainable growth, climate resilience and reliable service delivery for residents.” 

A Crestwood Secondary School graduate, Ian holds a Civil Engineering Technology Advanced Diploma from St. Lawrence College and is a Certified Engineering Technologist through the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists.  

Throughout his career, he has led a wide range of infrastructure and planning initiatives while fostering strong working relationships with City departments, Council, Indigenous communities, regulatory agencies, consultants and community stakeholders. 

“I’m honoured to have the opportunity to continue serving the City of Peterborough in this role. I’m passionate about building a strong, integrated, and forward-thinking approach to infrastructure planning that supports long-term financial sustainability, climate resilience, and high-quality service delivery for our community,” Ian said. “I also recognize the incredible knowledge and dedication of the staff within the division, and I look forward to continuing to support and empower our teams as we modernize infrastructure planning, strengthen collaboration across the organization, and help position the City for long-term success.” 

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City of Peterborough's Public Drop-In Session For Keith Wightman Park This Thursday

The City of Peterborough is hosting a public drop-in session for Keith Wightman Park from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday at Keith Wightman Public School.

Keith Wightman Park. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Residents are encouraged to come to the drop-in session to discuss improvements to Keith Wightman Park. These improvements would include new amenities and enhancements designed to meet the needs and priorities of the surrounding neighbourhood and those who use the space every day.  

“Parks play a vital role in bringing people together, supporting active lifestyles and creating spaces where communities can thrive,” said Otonabee Ward Councillors Lesley Parnell and Kevin Duguay. “This is an opportunity for residents to directly shape the future of their neighbourhood parks. We strongly encourage everyone to take a few minutes to complete the survey or attend a drop-in session. Your input will help ensure these spaces reflect the needs, ideas, and priorities of the people who use them every day.” 

Residents unable to attend the meeting can share their comments, complete the online survey and learn more about Keith Wightman Park at connectptbo.ca/wightman.

The public survey will remain open until 11:59 p.m. on June 17.  

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City of Peterborough Introduces New Director, Financial Services

City of Peterborough has welcomed Darren Hancock into the role of Director, Financial Services.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Hancock has over 25 years of accounting and municipal finance experience, including 19 years with the City of Peterborough in senior financial leadership roles. He has previously served as Chief Accountant and Deputy Treasurer and has supported the City’s budgeting, financial reporting, forecasting and financial governance functions.  

“Darren brings extensive municipal finance experience, strong leadership and a deep understanding of the organization to this role,” said Richard Freymond, Commissioner, Finance and Corporate Support Services. “His expertise in financial planning, reporting and governance, combined with his strong commitment to public service, will help support the City’s ongoing efforts to strengthen financial sustainability, modernize financial systems and processes, and enhance transparency and service delivery. I am confident he will continue to play a key role in advancing the City’s long-term financial strategy and support the organization’s top priorities.” 

Darren holds a Bachelor of Accounting (Honours) from Brock University and is a Chartered Professional Accountant. In his new role, he will oversee corporate budgeting, financial analysis, accounting and reporting, treasury functions, taxation, utility billing and revenue services.

“Having been born and raised in Peterborough and having attended high school at PCVS, I had the opportunity to observe the heartbeat of the City from just across the street. I am honoured and excited to now serve as Director, Financial Services, where I am committed to fostering a collaborative, forward-thinking, and progressive approach that delivers trusted advice, strong financial stewardship, and innovative solutions in support of the City’s long-term sustainability and strategic priorities,” said Hancock. “Together, my team and I will continue to provide exceptional service while fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and excellence for the City of Peterborough, its stakeholders, and the broader community.  I look forward to working collaboratively across the organization and community to help support the City’s continued success and future growth.” 

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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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