City of Peterborough Commemorates Irish Heritage Week With Flag Raising Ceremony at City Hall

The City of Peterborough is getting green for the next seven days as it kicked off Irish Heritage Week with a flag-raising ceremony at City Hall on Monday morning.

Dignitaries and notaries helped kick off Irish Heritage Week, raising Ireland’s flag at city hall. pHOTO BY David Tuan Bui.

Members of the Peterborough Canadian Irish Club, Nine Ships and dignitaries were at the ceremony to kick off Irish Heritage Week, as declared by Mayor Jeff Leal for Peterborough.

This year is the 201st year that politician Peter Robinson administered the passage and settlement of Irish Catholic families into Scott’s Plains, now known as Peterborough.

“It's important that we remember our Irish heritage and we have the opportunity to do that every year,” said Brendan Moher of the Peterborough Canadian Irish Club. “It's important that we educate our children and educate others in the community that this community was built in many respects by the Irish in 1825 when they arrived with the Peterborough Robinson group. They've been building this community ever since (among with many other immigrants in the world and First Nations).”

@ptbo_canada The City of Peterborough raised Ireland’s flag to kick off Irish Heritage Week in Peterborough for 2026! 🇮🇪 #ptbocanada #journalism #fyp #news #irishheritage ♬ Irish Jig Diddle Leprechaun Fiddle - Viral Sound Empire

Sunday is the 26th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, starting at City Hall and running through George Street until the Peterborough Memorial Centre. This year's grand marshall is Irish historical geographer Christy Roche.

Moher encourages everyone to attend this year’s parade, regardless of anyone’s background or heritage. He says the main takeaway is that everyone has a sense of community, whether they have Irish roots or want to be Irish for a day.

“It is a way for the community to come together of every economic strata and every ethnic background, up and down George Street,” explained Moher. “It's a way to come together as a community and realize what good things we have there.”

A 5K run along George Street has returned for this year’s parade. It will raise money for Right to Heal to help those with mental health and addiction issues. The run begins at 1:30 p.m., starting at Roger Neilson Way and turning around at McDonnel Street before completing the circuit at George Street north of Lansdowne Street.

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Public Information Centre Taking Place for Stage Two of Armour Road Traffic Operations Review

Residents are invited to attend a Public Information Centre (PIC) for stage two of the Armour Road Traffic Operations Review Feb. 24.

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Stage two was conducted in 2025 and focused on Armour Road between Hunter Street and Parkhill Road. 

The PIC will take place from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Peterborough Rugby Club (725 Armour Rd.) 

The session will be held in an informal, drop-in format. City staff will be available to share the research and findings from stage two of the review, and residents are encouraged to ask questions and give feedback on the information.   

Residents who are unable to attend in person can still request information and submit questions or comments by emailing the Senior Project Manager Graeme Pickett.

The Armour Road Traffic Operations Review was initiated in response to community traffic concerns along Armour Road between Nassau Mills Road and Hunter Street. There was also an identified need for improved pedestrian crossing opportunities to better connect neighbourhoods with the Rotary Greenway Trail, transit stops and nearby retail areas.  

The review examines several factors, including traffic control, vehicle speed and volume, road design and sightlines, pavement condition, historical collision data, pedestrian activity and crossing needs and the potential impacts of future development. 

Due to the length of the corridor and the amount of data required to complete the study, the review was divided into two stages: 

• Stage One: Armour Road between Parkhill Road and Nassau Mills Road (completed in 2024) 

• Stage Two: Armour Road between Parkhill Road and Hunter Street (completed in 2025) 

A report to Council summarizing the findings and analysis from the review is expected in the spring of 2026. 

For more information, visit the City of Peterborough’s website. 

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Residents Encouraged to Contribute to the City of Peterborough’s Corporate Accessibility Policy

Residents are invited to provide input into the City of Peterborough’s Corporate Accessibility Policy update.  

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The City says the Corporate Accessibility Policy will help strengthen and standardize accessible service delivery across all City departments. By providing staff with consistent guidance and improving procedural access to City services, the policy promotes equity, inclusion and customer-focused service. 

The update ensures the City continues to meet current accessibility legislation, adopts modern best practices and applies accessibility principles consistently across all City programs, services and operations. 

Residents can review the proposed policy and share their thoughts through the Connect Peterborough page. The draft policy can be viewed under the “documents” section on the webpage. Comments can be submitted directly through the online portal. 

Any feedback received will be used to inform the final policy and revise language where necessary. All comments will be reviewed by the Program Manager of Accessibility Standards and Integration, as well as the Accessibility Advisory Committee, before the policy is presented to City Council for final review. 

The public comment period will remain active until Feb. 27. 

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City of Peterborough Sends Condolences To Tumbler Ridge, B.C. Shooting That Left 10 Dead and 25 Injured

After 10 people died and 25 were injured from the Tumbler Ridge, B.C school shooting that occurred on Tuesday, Mayor Jeff Leal has released a statement regarding the incident.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“The City of Peterborough is shocked and deeply saddened by yesterday’s horrific shooting in Tumbler Ridge, B.C. We join with people across the country to extend condolences to all those who have lost loved ones as a result of this terrible violence. We will hold the victims, and all who grieve their loss, in our thoughts and prayers.”

Residents were locked down during the incident for approximately four hours.

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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.  

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“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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