Denne Park Celebrates Grand Opening On Bensfort Road

The City of Peterborough celebrated the opening of Denne Park, located at 2401 Bensfort Rd., on Thursday afternoon.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

According to the City, the need to rejuvenate Denne Park was identified as part of a comprehensive examination of the City’s green spaces and parks. Construction began in the spring of 2024.  

The City has added a playground, sheltered picnic area with accessible seating, walkways and new benches within Denne Park. A bicycle rack has been installed, and Sugar Maple and Colorado Spruce trees have been planted alongside the park’s existing trees. 

“This new park is an investment in both physical and mental well-being, and a reflection of our commitment to accessible, inclusive recreation for everyone in Peterborough. Access to safe, welcoming recreation opportunities is essential for a healthy, thriving Peterborough, and this new park is a meaningful step in that direction,” said Councillors Alex Bierk and Lesley Parnell in a joint statement.  

“A park is more than just a green space, it’s the heart of a neighbourhood. This is a space where families will gather, children will play and neighbours will connect. This is a space where community can grow. This new park will benefit residents for years to come,” said Ashburnham Ward Councillors Gary Baldwin and Keith Riel. 

The City has also completed rejuvenation work at Dominion Park. Improvements to Dominion Park include upgraded safety surfacing, a shaded shelter, accessible seating, tree planting, a new walkway and a sensory play area.  

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Trent Valley Honda Hosting Customer Appreciation BBQ & Car Wash On 50th Anniversary to Support Kawartha Haliburton Children's Foundation This Saturday

To celebrate their 50th anniversary, Trent Valley Honda (TVH) is hosting a Customer Appreciation BBQ & Car Wash in support of Kawartha Haliburton Children's Foundation this Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Trent Valley Honda.

The family-run business has been in Peterborough since 1975, located at 851 Highway 7 East.

“Our commitment to, training around and living our brand promise, has helped us foster a culture, where customers truly do come first, employees are proud and empowered to always do the right thing, and are motivated to go above and beyond for each other and for our customers,” said Monika Carmichael, Trent Valley Honda general manager. “The loyalty of our customers and our employees has been the key to sustainable growth and success.”

The free event features a charity raffle for two Gold tickets to the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy in Toronto on July 21, as well as ice cream, bouncy castles, face painting and a gift for every 2026 model test drive as part of the Test Drive Event this month.

The event typically raises $500 but TVH is aiming to double that this year according to Carmichael.

“We have often chosen causes that support and empower children that are less fortunate, including the YES Shelter, YWCA Women’s shelter, etc., she explained. “Kawartha Haliburton’s Children’s Aid acknowledged our ongoing community work and submitted a powerful proposal on why we should make them one of our causes.”

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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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City to Celebrate National Public Works Week at Nicholls Oval Park

The City invites the public to celebrate National Public Works Week at Nicholls Oval Park next Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Photo courtesy of The City of Peterborough.

Residents of all ages are invited to learn more about the public works' essential role in keeping the City of Peterborough running safely and efficiently.

“Public Works crews are on the job 24 hours a day, seven days a week, clearing our roads, maintaining our infrastructure and keeping our city safe and functional,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “I encourage everyone to take this opportunity to say thank you and to better understand and appreciate the critical role these dedicated professionals play in the life of our city.”

A touch-a-truck display provides a hands-on opportunity to learn about and explore public works vehicles and chat with the equipment crews.

The City’s arborists will demonstrate tree climbing and planting techniques. At 11 a.m., a guided tree identification tour of the park will take place.

Public Works will also be giving away 300 two-gallon potted trees. The species offered include Sugar Maple, Sycamore, Tulip Tree, Paper (White) Birch, Easter White Pine, Serviceberry, and Nannyberry.

Trees will only be available to City residents on a first-come, first-served basis.

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Lang Pioneer Village Sets May 20 As Opening Day

May 20 is opening day at Lang Pioneer Village Museum to kick off its 2025 season, Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., announced on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of Elizabeth King and Lang Pioneer Village.

The museum’s summer hours and special event season kick off with the annual Father’s Day Smoke & Steam Show on Sunday, June 15. Special events this year include Transportation Day Car & Motorcycle Show and Christmas by Candlelight.

The Keene Hotel, which underwent flooring upgrades over the fall and winter, will also reopen this spring.

“Spring is an exciting time for us here at the Museum as we switch gears and look forward to welcoming visitors back to the site for our Spring and Summer programming,” said Elizabeth King, museum operations manager. “Whether you are joining us for the hustle and bustle of an event day, digging in deeper at a workshop, or are here for the slower pace of a regular day - we invite you to experience history and learn with us.”

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Kawartha Dows Releases 2025 Event Schedule; Harness Racing Moved to Back to Saturday Nights

It's close to post time for Kawartha Downs (KD) as they released their lineup of events for 2025, including their harness racing schedule announced at the track on Thursday morning.

(From left to right) Richard Waldon, Kawartha president; Alpacas Charm, Bijoux, Deidra and Frances Stewart Alpaca Ontario President. One event is the Alpaca Ontario Spring Show this Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Harness racing has 18 dates, with the opening day on May 14. The grand opening will feature Ontario Sires Stakes Racing to kick off the racing season. A significant change this year is that harness racing nights are reverted to Saturdays with an earlier post time of 6 p.m. The move was to accommodate cottage-goers, account for highway traffic and be more accessible to everyone.

The track's major change is broadcasting KD races outside of in-house for the first time according to Lindsay Bax, Kawartha Downs harness racing manager.

“We will have our live racing signal on the live Simulcast that will be featured both in Canada and in the United States,” she explained.

The second floor and lounge have received upgrades, which include renovated spaces and increased television sets for viewing other racetracks for betting or entertainment. Bax says more upgrades will follow but they have been delayed due to several factors.

“We will be adding several more things as we come along,” she explained. “With the ice storm in the local area and obviously with all the political climate, a few things were delayed but I think you're going to see two or three more things roll out that will help.”

This year's new events include the Alpaca Ontario Spring Show, the Kawartha Hobby Toy and Collectible Show, and more.

KD wanted to make a concerted effort to ensure that harness racing is for all ages rather than the perceived notion of it just being an adult affair due to its gambling nature.

“100 per cent it is a stigma but harness racing specifically is one of the most approachable sports that you can go to as a family,” explained Bax. “There is no cost to come to the racetrack. If you don't want to wager, you don't have to wager. You can get food and beverage and watch the horses. Everybody's looking to save pennies when you do this as a family and this provides and checks all those boxes.”

A full event list can be found online.

The following are all harness racing dates on Saturdays with post time scheduled for 6 p.m.:

  • May 17 (Grand Opening with Ontario Sires Stakes Racing)

  • May 24

  • May 31

  • June 7

  • June 14

  • June 28

  • July 5 (Weiner Dog Racing)

  • July 12

  • July 19

  • July 26

  • Aug. 2

  • Aug. 9 (Kids Night, Powerwheel Racing)

  • Aug. 16

  • Aug. 23

  • Aug. 30

  • Sept. 6

  • Sept. 13

  • Sept. 20 (Customer and Caretaker Appreciation Night)

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Anglers Casting Their Lines For the 36th Annual OFAH Under the Lock Fishing Derby Starting April 26

The 36th annual Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) Under the Lock Fishing Derby is back for 2025 and kicks off on April 26 at the Peterborough Lift Lock.

GORDON BOWLEY, FISHING DERBY CO-CHAIR, holds Walter before throwing him into the canal. This is Bowley’s 25th year helping the fishing derby. PHOTO BY DAVID TUAN BUI.

The first day features the youth derby for children 15 and under, featuring goody bags, a hot dog lunch, 500 stocked trout for instant prizes and a chance to win one of four grand prizes. The all-ages derby starts on April 27 and runs through May 4.

“This community partnership provides anglers more chances to win, while helping to offset the cost of stocked trout for the youth derby," said Annie Layfield, OFAH Program Support Specialist.

Top prize fish ‘Walter’ returns and $1,000 cash goes to the lucky angler who catches the big rainbow trout, estimated to weigh between five and eight pounds. A second grand prize of $500 cash is being awarded to whoever catches ‘Gordon’ in honour of longtime volunteer Gordon Bowley.

New this year is the first-annual high school derby on May 1.

“We’re excited to offer high school students a chance to try their luck at trout fishing. The day includes five hours of fishing, lunch, instant prizes and a chance to catch tagged fish for cash prizes,” said Layfield.

Registration is required for all participants and can be completed online or in person at Peterborough Canadian Tire locations. Those who register by Thursday are eligible for some of the $4,000 in early bird prizes.

“We’re looking forward to seeing both familiar faces and new participants,” said Layfield. “The derby is a great way to bring the community together and get kids excited about fishing and the outdoors.”

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32nd Annual Kawartha Woodlot Expo Returns to Fleming College’s Frost Campus

UPDATED: 2:37 p.m. 02-04-25

The event has been cancelled due to the severe ice storm and the State of Emergency declared by the City of Kawartha Lakes.

Fleming College is hosting the 32nd Annual Kawartha Woodlot Expo in partnership with the Ontario Woodlot Association on April 5, announced on Monday.

Photo courtesy of Fleming College.

Faculty, staff and alumni within Fleming’s School of Environmental and Natural Resources Sciences have created engaging, hands-on workshops to help participants develop woodlot ownership, forest management, and tree identification skills. The Kawartha Woodlot Expo helps property owners and students better understand the big and small forests' role on private land and their environmental impact.

Registration is open to all with fees set at $40 per person.

Participants can attend two workshops (one in the morning and one in the afternoon), a silent auction, a chainsaw draw, raffle prizes, a roast beef lunch, coffee and snacks. Topics range from chainsaw basics and lumber scaling to tree identification, forest bathing, and more.

Workshop spots are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Specific workshops require personal protective equipment (PPE). Participants are encouraged to bring their own, but equipment will be provided if needed.

Registration can be done online.

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