Celebrate The Winter Season With The City of Peterborough's Annual Snofest Event

Embrace the chills, thrills and fun of the winter season during Snofest, the City of Peterborough’s annual winter celebration from Feb. 13 to 16.  

file photo.

“Snofest is a great way to embrace the cold by getting outside, staying active and having fun together,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “Whether you’re swimming, skating, or enjoying one of the many free events happening throughout Family Day weekend, Snofest reminds us that the best way to stay warm is by sharing in the energy and spirit of our community.” 

A schedule of events can be found below:

Free Workshop 

Feb. 13 

Snofest begins with a workshop, “Getting the Most from your Healthcare Appointment,” at the McDonnel St. Community Centre (577 McDonnel St.) 10:30 a.m. to noon. This free workshop focuses on what to do before, during and after an appointment, and uses action planning to optimize people’s health. Registration is required and can be done online. The deadline to register for this event is Feb. 12 at noon.  

Hot Lunch and Social Hour 

Feb. 13 

A Snofest Hot Lunch and Social Hour for seniors begins at noon. The buffet lunch is free. Registration is required and can be done online. The deadline to register for this event is Feb. 12 at noon.  

Free Fun Swim 

Feb. 13 

A free fun swim takes place at the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre (775 Brealey Dr.) on Feb. 13 from 6:45 p.m. to 7:45 p.m.  

Dinosaur Pop-Up 

Feb. 13 

A Dinosaur Pop-Up event takes place at the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Join Peterborough Museum and Archives staff for dinosaur-themed crafts and to learn about the Carnivorous Dinosaurs exhibit on display at the Peterborough Museum and Archives. 

Snofest Square 

Feb. 14

Quaker Foods City Square will be transformed into Snofest Square from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Snofest Square will feature cozy fire pits and seating for visitors to relax and enjoy the festivities. Programming includes Snoga (snow yoga) with Summer Soul Yoga & Wellness from noon to 12:30 p.m. followed by a Children’s Chorus led by Shannon McCracken from 12:30 p.m. to 1 p.m. Visitors can warm up with a Salsa Dancing session with Victoria of T-Elle Boutique from 1 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. or enjoy free outdoor ice skating on the Square’s rink.

Snofest Story Time and Winter Crafts 

Feb. 14

The Peterborough Public Library (345 Aylmer St.) is hosting Snofest Story Time and Winter Crafts from 10:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.  

Snofest Pancake Breakfast 

Feb. 15

The mayor’s annual Snofest Pancake Breakfast takes place at the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre (775 Brealey Dr.) from 7 a.m. to noon. All residents are invited to come out and enjoy a plate of warm pancakes and a cup of hot coffee, tea or hot chocolate.  

Snofest at the Art Gallery of Peterborough 

Feb. 15

The Art Gallery of Peterborough (250 Crescent St.) is hosting a Gallery Scavenger Hunt and a “Snofest Pete” collage activity. Visitors can also view current exhibitions at the Gallery. Events take place from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Drop In Sports 

Feb. 16

Visit the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre (775 Brealey Dr.) for free drop-in sport sessions. The schedule is as follows:  

• Pickleball 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. 

• Basketball 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. 

• Badminton noon to 2 p.m. 

Free Skating and Crafts at the Miskin Law Community Complex 

Feb. 16

Free skating takes place from 11 a.m. to 12:50 p.m. at the Miskin Law Community Complex (271 Lansdowne St. W.) Both the Russelle Toyota Pad and the Canadian Hockey Enterprises Pad will be available to skaters. Free drop-in winter crafting activities take place in the multipurpose room from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.  

For a complete list of events visit the website.

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BWXT Donates $5,000 to Rotary Club of Peterborough Towards Accessible Playground Project

The Rotary Club of Peterborough’s Accessible Playground Project is $5,000 closer to its $1.5 million goal, as BWXT Nuclear Energy Canada (BWXT) donated $5,000 at its facility on Friday afternoon.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The project was launched in August to be developed at Riverview Park & Zoo.

Upgrades for the playground include widened pathways between play areas for people using strollers and mobility devices, new surfaces throughout the playground to make getting around easier and relaxing, shady spaces with great sightlines to make it more comfortable for visitors and their caregivers.

@ptbo_canada The Rotary Club of Peterborough has been donated $5,000 towards their Accessible Playground Project courtesy of BWXT Peterborough! #ptbocanada #journalism #news #fyp #donation ♬ Awards Epic - Celebrity

“The Riverview Park & Zoo has been welcoming generations of families in our community since 1933 and this project is a powerful example of what can be achieved when local businesses come together to support our community,” said Betty Halman-Plumley, Chair of the project steering committee.-Truly for the community by the community.”

"At BWXT, we truly value the strength of community. We're excited to support the Rotary Club of Peterborough with a donation for their Rotary Accessible Playground Project,” said Andy Collyer, Vice President, Fuel and Fuel Handling at BWXT Peterborough. “Giving back to the community where our employees live and work means a lot to us, and we're honoured to help create inclusive spaces that everyone can enjoy.”

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34th Annual Polar Plunge For Campbellford Memorial Hospital Exceeds Fundraising Goal

Despite chilly temperatures, the spirit of generosity was unmistakably warm this weekend as the 34th annual Polar Plunge in support of the Campbellford Memorial Hospital raises $40,000.

photo courtesy of polar plunge campbellford hospital AUXILIARY, facebook.

This year’s Polar Plunge exceeded its fundraising goal, with all proceeds going towards supporting quality patient care at Campbellford Memorial Hospital.

“We cannot thank our community enough,” said representatives of the Auxiliary to the Campbellford Memorial Hospital. “From the volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, to the plungers who boldly took the leap, to the pledgers and spectators who showed their unwavering support; this event truly demonstrates what we can accomplish together for our hospital.”

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Celebrate Black History Month In The City of Peterborough

Mayor Jeff Leal has proclaimed February as Black History Month, with various community-led events and programs to honour the history, achievements and contributions of Black Canadians.

photo courtesy of the city of peterborough, facebook.

“Black History Month provides an opportunity to remember, recognize and celebrate the contributions that Black Canadians have made to the City of Peterborough and all of Canada, creating an environment that values diversity, equity and inclusion every month,” Leal’s Proclamation states.  

Read the full Proclamation online.

The Community Race Relations Committee of Peterborough is hosting a Black History Month Showcase and Proclamation Event Feb. 4 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Showplace Performance Centre (290 George St. N.) 

The Peterborough Museum and Archives (300 Hunter St. E.) is offering colouring pages to visitors of all ages which encourage conversations around kindness, inclusion and standing up against racism. Visitors can also explore the Black History Month section in the children’s book nook to learn about the people, stories and moments that have shaped history.  

The Peterborough Public Library (345 Aylmer St.) in partnership with the Afrocentric Awareness Network of Peterborough, is hosting a Black History Month Celebration on Feb. 15 from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Visitors of all ages are welcome to come for an afternoon of Nigerian dance, Jamaican and African foods and an African-themed craft. Visitors can also drop by the library’s main branch or the branch at the Miskin Law Community Centre (271 Lansdowne St. W.) for “Who Am I? Mystery Portraits.” This month-long program invites visitors to explore portraits and profiles highlighting the accomplishments of Black Canadians.

An Afrocentric Story Time takes place Feb. 28 at 10:30 a.m. for children between the ages of six and 10.   

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Draft Policy For Commemorative Flag Raisings and Light Displays Available For Public Review

A draft policy to establish criteria to consider requests for commemorative flag raisings and lighting displays at City of Peterborough facilities is posted for public review and comments until Feb. 12.

photo courtesy of connect peterborough.

Comments on the draft policy will be reviewed and considered to inform the version of the draft policy that is presented during a City Council meeting for Council’s consideration.

The policy will establish a consistent protocol for the raising and displaying of commemorative flags and illumination displays at City facilities to bring public awareness to occasions and events.

Flag raisings and illumination displays will:

• Reflect the cultural diversity of the community, promote inclusion and foster a sense of belonging for all

• Recognize the importance of significant dates and occasions, and acknowledge the contributions of local non-profit or charitable organizations or initiatives

• Support public awareness campaigns that promote health, safety and wellbeing and encourage community participation and civic pride

The draft criteria reflects the City’s current practice for considering flag raising and illumination requests. The Policy would be a Council-approved direction that would formalize the current practice. A list of all criteria can be found on the City’s website.

Official celebrations and observances are recognized by the City of Peterborough through a variety of acknowledgements, including:

• Official proclamations or awareness statements by the Mayor

• Hosting flag raising ceremonies or events at City Hall

• Featuring community events on the City’s online calendar or in its news posts on the City website

• Promoting awareness and linking to resources on the City’s social media channels

• Commemorative lighting displays at City Hall and seasonally at the Centennial Fountain in Little Lake

• Various City facilities and services, including the Museum and Archives, Peterborough Public Library and the Art Gallery of Peterborough build programming and education around official celebrations and observances

Residents can review the draft policy and submit comments through the link. To arrange to pick up a printed copy, email or call (ext. 1785)

Community groups and organizations are invited to request flag raisings, proclamations and commemorative lighting displays. The request forms for flag raisings and commemorative illumination displays are available on the website.

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Peterborough Police Not Participating In Assault Style Federal Compensation Program

The Peterborough Police Service will not be an active participant in the Assault Style Federal Compensation Program (ASFCP), a buy-back program for firearms, announced Wednesday.

stock photo.

In a message from Peterborough Police Chief Betts, he breaks down the decision.

“After careful consideration and review of the information currently available, an operational decision has been made that at this time the Peterborough Police Service will not be an active participant in the Federal Assault Style Federal Compensation Program (ASFCP). This means, we will not be deploying officers or resources to actively seek out those with firearms that fall within the scope of this program. The Police Service Board is aware of this decision, and a report will be presented to the Board at its next Board meeting in Feb. 2026.”

“The federal government has been clear, ‘participation to obtain compensation through the ASFCP is voluntary, compliance with the law is not, therefore, all owners who do not participate in the program must dispose of or permanently deactivate their prohibited firearms and devices before the amnesty period ends on Oct. 30, 2026.’”

“We remain committed to public safety and to reducing firearm-related harm in our community; however, there are significant gaps within the ASFCP program, including insufficient clarity around the details and expectations of the program, such as the logistics of operationalizing such a program including the expectations of police services to safely engage with this program.”      

“While the ASFCP may help reduce the availability of domestically sourced prohibited firearms, our current priorities related to firearms investigations are focused on those who use firearms in the commission of a criminal offence, irrespective of whether they are legally or illegally owned: stated otherwise, if a person commits a criminal offence in our community, and uses a firearm in the commission of that offence, we will bring the full weight of our resources to bear to ensure that person is brought before the courts to answer for their actions.”

“The Peterborough Police Service has long-established procedures for investigations involving firearms, including how to respond to those who wish to turn firearms over for destruction, and our police service remains focused on disrupting criminal networks and preventing crime by deploying our limited resources where they will have the greatest and most immediate impact on public safety.  We recognize the federal government’s commitment to addressing gun violence and will continue working with them and the Province of Ontario, to disrupt and combat such activities in our community.”

On Jan. 19, the Public Safety Canada portal opened for individuals who wish to declare their firearms for possible compensation under the ASFCP. To determine the approach being undertaken in their respective community, Canadians are invited to consult the Assault-Style Firearms Compensation Program website and direct any questions to the Public Safety Canada Help Centre.

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New Canadians Centre Seeking Two New Board Members

The New Canadians Centre (NCC) is looking for two board members to join the governance team that shapes the core priorities and advises on the strategic direction of the organization.

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The NCC is seeking to fill two positions for two-year terms. Board members may serve three consecutive two-year terms.

In a press release, the NCC outlines that they are looking for individuals with “well-rounded governance experience and with a specific background in Capital Asset Management (facilities and construction) and Fundraising (Capital campaigns).”

“The NCC serves more than 2,500 newcomer clients annually. Newcomers can access a variety of programs and services, such as settlement and employment counselling, language assessment, transitional support, workshops (e.g., taxes and citizenship), English conversation and women’s groups, skills training, youth programming and activities and recreational outings,” the release states.

More information and application forms can be accessed here, and will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. on Feb. 22.

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Peterborough Triathlete Tristen Jones Raising Funds For International Races

Local Peterborough triathlete Tristen Jones is fundraising to support his international travel costs as he represents Canada in competitions abroad.

photo courtesy of tristen jones.

Jones started doing triathlons in the Peterborough area at just 10 years old.

“I’ve spent my entire life in Peterborough. Anybody who lives near me probably knows me as the guy who runs down Ireland Drive,” said Jones in an interview with PTBOCanada.

As he progressed through youth rankings, Jones qualified at the junior level to race for Canada internationally. It was at the North American Junior Champs in 2019 that he placed second.

Once the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Jones decided to put his athletic ambitions on hold to prioritize his schooling, studying Kinesiology on scholarship at Queen’s University of Charlotte in North Carolina.

Choosing to study Kinesiology was a no-brainer for the athlete, whose parents both pursued degrees in the field.

“One fed into the other throughout my entire life. I’ve always enjoyed sports, and I’ve played every sport possible growing up. That got me into sports science and kinesiology,” said Jones. “Once I started studying it in University, it reinforced my love for what I do.”

All photos courtesy of Tristen Jones.

All photos courtesy of Tristen Jones.

After graduating in 2024, Jones continued his training throughout the spring and summer. He went on to compete in Hong Kong, China and Malaysia. The athlete made a goal for himself; if he could make the Triathlon Canada top five ranking during this competition, he would continue to pursue his dreams.

At his second race in China, he placed fifth.

“This reinforced for me that I can do this for real. I’m just going to go for it and see what I can do.”

Donations help Jones continue to pursue his athletic career internationally, where he will participate in races and training across the world.

“As you move up in the world ranking and in the level of competition, you need more time to prepare yourself for those races,” said Jones.  “Any donation or any tickets bought for the raffle is another chance for me to go and experience being a full-time pro athlete, and (compete) to the best of my abilities.”

The raffle runs until Jan. 31 and has a variety of prizes to be won. Tickets can be purchased to support Jones here.

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City of Peterborough 2026 Community Safety and Well-Being Plan Survey Now Open To The Community

The City of Peterborough has invited residents to provide input toward updating the Community Safety and Well-being Plan through a survey that is open until Feb. 13.

file photo.

The survey asks about perceptions and experiences in the community, and suggestions for how to improve safety and well-being. There is a map allowing community members to identify specific areas where they feel safe and unsafe. 

The Community Safety and Well-being Plan is used as a guide by the City and local social service providers to identify common goals for building a community where everyone is safe and included. 

Community members can provide input through the online survey and interactive map on Connect Peterborough. Paper copies of the survey and the current Plan are available at Service Peterborough in City Hall, 500 George St. N. 

“This survey is an important opportunity for residents to share what is working, where challenges remain, and how we can continue building neighbourhoods where everyone feels safe, supported and included. Hearing directly from the community will help guide the next chapter of this work,” said Mayor Jeff Leal.

The Plan identifies five priority areas including; housing and homelessness, poverty and income security, healthcare and mental health, substance use and addictions and active transportation and connectivity.

The survey is open to all residents in the City of Peterborough, Curve Lake First Nation, and Hiawatha First Nation, including all permanent and seasonal residents, as well as those who are living unhoused.  

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City of Peterborough Invites Community To Review Draft Community Planning Permit By-Law

The City of Peterborough is inviting members of the public to review and provide feedback on the draft Community Planning Permit (CPP) By-law through open houses and an online survey. 

photo courtesy of connect peterborough.

The draft CPP By-law, along with interactive mapping, is now available for public review online.

The CPP By-law will replace the City’s existing Zoning By-law and will establish new rules for how land can be used and what types of buildings can be developed across the City. 

Community members are encouraged to review the draft By-law and attend one of the in-person public open houses to learn more and share feedback. These are drop-in open houses, and no formal presentation will be provided.

In-Person Public Open House Schedule: 

• Jan. 28 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Westdale United Church, 1509 Sherbrooke St. 

• Jan. 29 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Queen Alexandra Community Centre (Activity Haven), 180 Barnardo Ave. 

• Feb. 4 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at McDonnel Street Community Centre, 577 McDonnel St. 

• Feb. 5 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Healthy Planet Arena Banquet Hall, 911 Monaghan Rd. 

Virtual Open House: 

A virtual Statutory Public Open House will be held on Feb. 11 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. via Zoom. This session will include a presentation outlining the draft CPP By-law, followed by a question-and-answer period. Those wishing to attend can find details via Eventbrite. The meeting will be recorded and posted online following the presentation.  

In addition to attending an open house, community members can provide feedback through an online survey from Jan. 28 to Feb. 13.

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