Peterborough DBIA Accepting Applications For 2026 Community Event Support Grants

The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) is accepting applications for its 2026 Community Event Support Grant, announced on Tuesday.

Past grant recipients include the Neighbourhood Markets, Highly Likely Festival, Otonabeats Day Breaks and An Evening with Folk Fest's Emerging Artists. Photo courtesy of the DBIA.

The first deadline is March 8 for events taking place between April 1 and Sept. 30. The Sept. 8 deadline covers events from Oct. 1 to March 31, 2027.

According to the DBIA, the grant program provides financial and in-kind support to organizers hosting community-minded events in downtown Peterborough. Funding can offset costs such as advertising, permits, supply costs, administrative fees and rental fees. The number of grants awarded will depend on available funds and the volume of qualifying applications.

Local businesses, grassroots groups and organizations in Downtown Peterborough are eligible for grants. The DBIA says priority is given to events that reach diverse audiences, engage DBIA member businesses, drive foot traffic and tourism, bring economic activity to the BIA district and celebrate the unique cultures and identities of the downtown community.

All applications must include a detailed budget outline to be considered.

Applications are accepted twice a year. Following each deadline, the DBIA board will review submissions at its next scheduled meeting and notify applicants of funding decisions. Successful applicants can expect to receive funds within two weeks of their event date. Organizers requiring in-kind support should coordinate with the DBIA at least two weeks before their event.

“Our Community Event Support Grant is about more than funding — it's about helping event organizers bring their ideas to life in ways that bring real energy to our downtown core," says Nour Mazloum, Peterborough DBIA executive director. “Every event we support strengthens people's connection to downtown Peterborough, inspires new experiences and builds the kind of community that keeps people coming back.”

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Taste of Syria Comes to Downtown Peterborough With Aleppo Castle Restaurant Grand Opening

Peterborough can get a taste of Syrian cuisine as the restaurant Aleppo Castle had its grand opening downtown on Wednesday morning.

Aleppo Castle owner Amhed El Nime puts the finishing touches on aji (egg and parsley fritter) before presentation. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Located at 349 George St. N., the restaurant serves familiar classic Middle Eastern favourites inspired by Aleppo, Syria, such as shawarma, falafel and hummus. Aleppo Castle also serves traditional Syrian cuisine, including batatas faroojh, aji, fatoush and more.

Amhed El Nime, Aleppo Castle owner, arrived in Canada three years ago. He had help adjusting to a new country through the New Canadians Centre and his business was aided through Community Futures Peterborough.

Mayor Jeff Leal (left) samples Amhed El Nime (right) and Aleppo Castle's beef kebab as one of several dishes served for the attendees. All photos by David Tuan Bui.

El Nime said he is grateful to Canada and Peterborough for welcoming him to the country, where he can build a new life and start a business in a short time.

“Slowly, slowly, slowly, I’ve been working hard,” he said. “I’m so happy for the people who helped me. Thank you to god, thank you for everybody and thank you to Canada.”

Mayor Jeff Leal, Community Futures Peterborough and the Peterborough DBIA attended the grand opening and sampled the Syrian cuisine. It was capped off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the occasion.

@ptbo_canada Peterborough can get a taste of Syrian cuisine as the restaurant Aleppo Castle had its grand opening in Downtown Peterborough. ##ptbocanada##journalism##news##fyp##syria🇸🇾 ♬ Síria Syria سوريا - DJ Reverb & Ads

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

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.

First place winner Lavender Moon with their Holiday Window display. All photos courtesy of the Peterborough DBIA.

First place winner Kingan Home Hardware with their Holiday Window display. All photos courtesy of the Peterborough DBIA.

Second place winner Brants Basics with their Holiday Window display. All photos courtesy of the Peterborough DBIA.

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

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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City Council Unanimously Against By-Law 25-126 to Assume Power From Peterborough DBIA Board of Management

City Council has voted unanimously against passing By-law 25-126 to assume a power from the Board of Management for the Central Area Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) during their meeting on Monday evening.

Nour Mazloum, Peterborough DBIA executive director during the Peterborough and the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce Meet the Candidates event for the federal election earlier this year. File photo.

The by-law, if passed, stated as follows:

1. On Feb. 21, 2017, Council approved the recommendations in closed session Report OCS17-003 and passed By-law 17-013 authorizing execution of a settlement agreement between the Board of Management for the Central Area Downtown Business Improvement Area, The Corporation of the City of Peterborough (City) and another party to an appeal to the then Ontario Municipal Board against Official Plan Amendment Number 173 and Zoning By-law 16-053 (Settlement Agreement).

2. Pursuant to the Settlement Agreement, the City makes 20 annual payments to the DBIA of $150,000 each for a total of $3,000,000.

3. DBIA is a local board of the City.

4. Pursuant to section 216 of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c. 25, a municipality may change a local board including assuming a power or duty of the local board.

As a result of City Council’s vote, The Corporation of the City of Peterborough by the Council has enacted the following:

1. The City hereby assumes the power of DBIA to receive from the City annual payments of $150,000 each pursuant to the Settlement Agreement.

2. Any by-laws or resolutions of DBIA pertaining to the exercise of the assumed power are deemed to be repealed or amended to the extent necessary to permit the City to receive the said annual payments of $150,000 and to spend the proceeds thereof subject only to the City’s performance of DBIA’s obligations respecting such payments pursuant section 3 of the Settlement Agreement.

3. This By-law is in effect when it is passed.

The DBIA issued a strong warning to City Council not to pass the by-law on Friday afternoon.

“Downtown businesses have been navigating higher operating costs, increased taxes, tariffs, and the lingering impacts of COVID-19,” said Nour Mazloum, Peterborough DBIA executive director. “This is precisely the time when they need more support, not less. We have been transparent, responsible, and accountable with every dollar we manage. That’s why this by-law is so concerning; it breaks trust. If the City can change direction without discussion on something this important, what will they do next? Trust requires year-over-year consistency. Right now, that’s what’s at risk.”

The DBIA released a statement regarding the decision on Tuesday afternoon:

Dear DBIA Members,

On behalf of the Board of Directors and our entire team, I want to extend my deepest thanks for your incredible support over the past week. Because of your engagement, your voices and your commitment to the future of our downtown, City Council voted unanimously against By-law 25-126.

This outcome was only possible because our members showed up.

You delegated, you wrote letters, you asked questions and you made it clear that the vibrancy of downtown and the independence of the DBIA matter deeply to this community.

Your efforts reaffirmed what makes downtown Peterborough so special; a strong, united business community that cares, collaborates and stands together when it counts.

Thank you for your advocacy, your time, your belief and most importantly your trust in the work we do every day. We will continue to champion the needs of our members, strengthen our partnerships with the City, and build a downtown that reflects the energy, creativity and resilience of the people who drive it.

This was a meaningful win for all of us; and we achieved it together!

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Peterborough DBIA Issues Strong Warning to the City Regarding Risks of By-Law 25-126

The Downtown Peterborough Business Improvement Area (DBIA) has issued a strong warning regarding By-law 25-126, which is scheduled to go before City Council for approval during their meeting on Monday evening.

Nour Mazloum, Peterborough DBIA executive director during the Peterborough and the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce Meet the Candidates event for the federal election earlier this year. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

According to the DBIA, if passed, the by-law would shift authority over funds that have long supported downtown stability, revitalization, safety and economic activity – potentially weakening the DBIA’s ability to deliver services at a time when downtown businesses are already facing unprecedented pressures.

The DBIA says they were not consulted on the development of the by-law. Nour Mazloum, Peterborough DBIA executive director, said she raised questions about how this change would affect the organization’s ability to carry out its mandate during an already challenging economic period.

“Downtown businesses have been navigating higher operating costs, increased taxes, tariffs, and the lingering impacts of COVID-19,” said Mazloum. “This is precisely the time when they need more support, not less. We have been transparent, responsible, and accountable with every dollar we manage. That’s why this by-law is so concerning; it breaks trust. If the City can change direction without discussion on something this important, what will they do next? Trust requires year-over-year consistency. Right now, that’s what’s at risk.”

She also stated that the DBIA has a long-standing, collaborative working relationship with City staff and remains committed to maintaining that partnership but emphasized that major financial or governance changes require proper consultation.

“By-laws have consequences and this one has them,” she said.

“You can’t pass a by-law without considering the consequences. This one has them,” said Sacha Lai-Svirk, DBIA Chair. “A by-law like this sends a message about the City’s commitment (or lack of commitment) to stability, predictability, and partnership. After the progress we’ve made together, introducing doubt right now is strategically harmful. It risks undoing years of work to rebuild confidence with the City.”

Lai-Svirk emphasized that the DBIA is not opposed to tough conversations but decisions of this magnitude must be informed, transparent, and collaborative.

“I’ve run a small business downtown for 20 years. I know exactly what uncertainty does to a business,” she said. “The last thing our businesses need is confusion about the City’s support.”

Lai-Svirk also addressed an online comment that the by-law ‘does not change anything.’

“If this by-law doesn’t change anything, then passing it is unnecessary,” she explained. “And if it does change something, the City needs to explain exactly what — and why.”

Lai-Svirk added that the DBIA warns that shifting administration of the funds to the City creates the possibility of future reductions or redirection, undermining the stability provided through existing commitments through 2037.

“We have stability until 2037. There is no reason to revisit this now. This by-law should be set aside until then,” she said.

The DBIA has highlighted the following strategic implications if the by-law is passed:

Passing By-law 25-126 without review or consultation risks:

• Undermining downtown stability during a volatile economic period

• Creating uncertainty for 400+ businesses who rely on DBIA support

• Damaging trust between the City and downtown stakeholders

• Sending a negative signal to investors, developers, and new businesses

• Interrupting momentum at a time when the downtown has finally turned a corner

• Jeopardizing future collaborative initiatives, including:

• permanent lighting strategy

• downtown boundary expansion

• high-speed rail (Alto) integration

• Event Centre activation

• new streetscape, placemaking, and safety programs

“These are the conversations we should be having,” said Lai-Svirk. “Not a by-law that destabilizes the very partnership that makes these projects possible.”

The DBIA is formally requesting that Council:

1. Vote against the by-law

2. Conduct a full legal and strategic review

3. Engage directly with the DBIA, AON Inc. and downtown stakeholders

4. Reassess the by-law in the context of downtown’s economic recovery

“We are prepared to defend the future of downtown businesses,” said Sacha Lai-Svirk. “If Council chooses to move forward without consultation – AON Inc. and the DBIA, are prepared to take every appropriate step to protect downtown businesses and the commitments made to this community,” said Lai-Svirk. “But our hope is to resolve this collaboratively. We want decisions that strengthen our momentum, not undermine it.”

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Peterborough DBIA's Halloween In the Booro Returns This Saturday

Downtown Peterborough is getting spooky as the Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) hosts its annual Halloween in the Booro event, offering an evening of trick-or-treating and downtown fun on Saturday.

Photo courtesy of the DBIA.

The family-friendly free event runs from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. as over 45 local businesses in the Downtown and East City will hand out treats, have characters will roam George Street and a Family Friendly Zone. The zone includes a Halloween-themed photobooth and costume contests for kids, adults and pets.

“Halloween in the Booro is one of our favourite events. It brings local families and merchants together for a safe, welcoming night of family-friendly fun that highlights everything we love about our downtown,” said Nour Mazloum, DBIA executive director. “It makes our city feel like home and creates the kinds of memories that keep people returning to the downtown as a destination for their family to enjoy unique activities.” 

By drawing hundreds of families to the core, the event creates opportunities for residents to discover local businesses, increases evening foot traffic, and supports the small business community that is central to Peterborough’s economy according to Dylan Reinhart, Boardwalk Game Lounge co-owner.

“We’ve loved seeing how Halloween in the Booro has continued to grow each year, bringing more families downtown and shining a light on local businesses,” he said. “It’s become a tradition for many, and events like this are a great reminder of how vibrant and welcoming our downtown really is.”

Families can plan their route using the official trick-or-treat map which lists all participating businesses, accessible entrances, and family-friendly stops.

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Peterborough DBIA's Halloween in the Booro Returns on Oct. 25

Downtown Peterborough is getting spooky as the Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) hosts its annual Halloween in the Booro event on Oct. 25, offering an evening of trick-or-treating and downtown fun, as announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of the DBIA.

The family-friendly free event runs from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. as over 45 local businesses in the Downtown and East City will hand out treats, have characters will roam George Street and a Family Friendly Zone. The zone includes a Halloween-themed photobooth and costume contests for kids, adults and pets.

“Halloween in the Booro is one of our favourite events. It brings local families and merchants together for a safe, welcoming night of family-friendly fun that highlights everything we love about our downtown,” said Nour Mazloum, DBIA executive director. “It makes our city feel like home and creates the kinds of memories that keep people returning to the downtown as a destination for their family to enjoy unique activities.” 

By drawing hundreds of families to the core, the event creates opportunities for residents to discover local businesses, increases evening foot traffic, and supports the small business community that is central to Peterborough’s economy according to Dylan Reinhart, Boardwalk Game Lounge co-owner.

“We’ve loved seeing how Halloween in the Booro has continued to grow each year, bringing more families downtown and shining a light on local businesses,” he said. “It’s become a tradition for many, and events like this are a great reminder of how vibrant and welcoming our downtown really is.”

Families can plan their route using the official trick-or-treat map which lists all participating businesses, accessible entrances, and family-friendly stops.

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New Mural Hits Downtown Peterborough to Celebrate Art, Community and Connection This Fall

To celebrate art, community, and connection, downtown Peterborough is welcoming a new mural created by local Anishinaabe artist Josh Morley (Miskopwagan Asin) this fall.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough DBIA

Facilitated by First Friday Peterborough, the mural will be painted on Water Street between Key Design Inc. and Scotiabank.

“The hug is a universal symbol. It’s an action of support, connection and optimism - values that reflect the strength of the Peterborough community,” said Morley. “Through this mural, I hope to encourage us all to keep showing up for one another. Public art has the power to spark connection and belonging, and my wish is that this piece not only inspires those feelings but also adds to the vitality and beauty of our downtown.” 

“Serving on the mural jury was both exciting and weighted with responsibility. We wanted to create new opportunities for local artists, and it was inspiring to see so many beautiful proposals submitted. Choosing just one was not easy, and every artist should be so proud of themselves” says Ashley Hall, First Friday committee member, mural jury, and local artist. “I’m excited to see this mural bring vitality back to the space and reflect the values of connection, inclusivity, and love… all beautifully captured in a single hug.”

An unveiling event to take place during the October First Friday Art Crawl event on Oct. 3 at 6 p.m., at the mural location.

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Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area Launches New Website

The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) has officially launched Phase 2 of its website TheBoro.ca, announced on Monday.

Photo courtesy of the DBIA.

The reworked website helps visitors and locals to plan and enhance their downtown experience according to a press release.

Support from Regional Tourism Organization 8 (RT08) through their Partnership Allocation Program helped DBIA create the website.

The website was originally developed during the pandemic as an online shopping portal. It has become a digital destination for visitors and residents, aligning with the DBIA’s mission to enhance downtown Peterborough’s economic vitality, community connection and cultural vibrancy according to Nour Mazloum, DBIA executive director

“TheBoro.ca is more than just a website. It’s a crucial part of our long-term strategy for fostering economic growth and cultural vibrancy in the heart of Peterborough,” she said. “We really want people to feel excited about exploring our downtown, whether they’re visiting us for the first time or just looking for a great way to spend their weekend.”

The new platform serves as a central hub for downtown Peterborough to discover events, local businesses or trip ideas.

It also gives downtown business owners, artists, and local event organizers a central stage to share their offerings, helping them reach new audiences and network within the community and among visitors.

Some new features of  TheBoro.ca include:

• An Interactive business directory with mapping tools and highly curated categories

• A dynamic events calendar with DBIA-led events and community submissions with everything from live music and customer appreciation events to theatre shows, family festivals and exclusive pop-up events

• Trip-planning content such as self-guided tours and itineraries, local stories and business/artist spotlights and guides

• Integrated connections to the Boro Gift Card, exclusive Boro merchandise and newsletters

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