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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Tax Installment Payments Options During Canada Post Labour Dispute

With the ongoing labour dispute with Canada Post, mail delivery may be delayed which could disrupt the next interim tax installment, due this Friday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

To ensure tax payments are received on time, the City has provided alternate ways to sending tax payments in the mail:  

Drop Box at City Hall 

Cheque payments can be placed in a secure drop box out front at City Hall, 500 George St. N., 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  

Through a bank 

Property taxes can be paid like any other bill through online or telephone banking, or at a resident’s financial institution. The 15-digit roll number (XXX XXX XXXXX 0000) is used as the account number. 

At Service Peterborough 

Tax payments can be made by cash, cheque or debit card at the Service Peterborough location at City Hall, 500 George St. N., during regular business hours, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  

By credit card 

Property taxes can be paid online by credit card through an online bill payment service provider, such as PaySimply or Plastiq. Applicable service charges apply. 

Please note that credit card payments for property taxes will not be accepted at the City Hall Tax Office.

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Peterborough Theatre Guild Announces Six Theatrical Productions For 2025-26 Season

The Peterborough Theatre Guild has released its lineup for the upcoming 2025-26 season with six theatrical productions slated to run from late September to early May next year, announced on Monday.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Theatre Guild.

The following the shows and dates:

• Opening Night by Norm Foster

  • Directed by Margaret Monis

  • Sept. 19 – Oct. 4

• 291 by Jade O’Keeffe

  • Directed by Lisa Dixon

  • Nov. 1 – 15

• The Emperor’s New Clothes by Gerry McBride based on the story by Hans Christian Andersen

  • Directed by Gerry McBride

  • Dec. 5 - 14, 2025

• Where You Are by Kristen Da Silva

  • Directed by Jerry Allen

  • Jan. 16 - 31, 2026

• Midnight Madness by Dave Carley

  • Directed by Jane Werger

  • Feb. 27 – March 14, 2026

• The Mel Brooks Musical Young Frankenstein Book by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan, Music and Lyrics by Mel Brooks, Original Direction & Choreography by Susan Stroman

  • Directed by Nate Axcell

  • April 17 – May 3, 2026

The season starts with Opening Night by renowned Canadian playwright Norm Foster, directed by Margaret Monis. This hilarious play takes audiences on a journey behind the scenes of a chaotic theatre premiere. Get ready for twists and turns, sharp wit and great characters.

Adding a dramatic twist, 291, written by local playwright Jade O’Keeffe and directed by Lisa Dixon, brings a touch of historical intrigue with a locally written piece that delves into the letters between acclaimed artist Georgia O’Keeffe and her lover, photographer Alfred Stieglitz. This original work highlights the artistry and emotion behind one of history’s most famous creative couples.

As the holiday season approaches, families can enjoy the beloved children's production of The Emperor's New Clothes, written and directed by Gerry McBride. Based on Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale, this adaptation promises to be full of humour and enchantment for audiences of all ages.

Where You Are by Kristen Da Silva, directed by Jerry Allen, is a comedy that features a heartwarming tale of love, family, and unexpected second chances in a charming, small-town setting.

Midnight Madness by Peterborough Native, Dave Carley, is a romantic comedy about two former classmates who unexpectedly reunite at a furniture store’s going-out-of-business sale.

For those who love a musical spectacle, the season rounds out with the electrifying production of Young Frankenstein by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan, directed by Nate Axcell. This hilarious parody of the horror genre promises electrifying choreography, clever wordplay and big belly laughs.

Season and individual show tickets will be available starting July 1 through the box office and online.

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City Reopens Sports Fields and Baseball Diamonds From Prior Wet Conditions

The City of Peterborough has reopened all natural sports fields and baseball diamonds following several days of rainfall which resulted in a temporary closure that began on Thursday morning.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The baseball diamond at Milroy Park is the only exception and remains closed until Tuesday. City crews are completing inspections and minor repairs as required ahead of the reopening.

Damaged turf and divots can create safety concerns for players according to the City. If fields require repairs, their reopening could be delayed or they may have to be taken out of play while work is completed, negatively impacting user field time.

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Rotary Club of Peterborough Funds Environmental Innovator Projects

The Rotary Club of Peterborough awarded five environmental innovators with funding through its Rotary Environmental Innovators Fund (REIF) for proposed local projects at the McDonnel Activity Centre on Monday afternoon.

In its third year, REIF has already awarded more than $20 thousand dollars. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The funding is for projects designed by environmental entrepreneurs that advance local environmental innovators working in biodiversity, water and wastewater technologies, climate change, sustainable living, pollution, waste disposal and more.

The following were the funding recipients:

$3,000 Top Awards:

• Wildrock Outfitters / Kawartha Land Trust – Native Plant Horticulture for Invasive Species Control

• Woodleigh Farms – Catching Carbon

• Clean Energy Generation – Sanostrategy Wind Turbine Installation

$1,000 Runner-Up Awards:

• Taproots for Tomorrow – Carbon-Positive Air-Prune Beds

• Second Nature Studio – Plastic Waste to Purpose

This year’s REIF committee has received 16 applications for local projects.

The applications are judged based on how they might impact the local climate and environment, how innovative the project is compared to existing solutions, the project's practicality, expected benefits and how the funds would be used.

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Curve Lake First Nation Receives $20,000 From Ontario Government For Annual Pow Wow

The provincial government is investing $20,000 in the Curve Lake First Nation Pow Wow, which will be held Sept. 20-21, through the 2025 Experience Ontario program, announced on Monday.

Experience Ontario 2025 is supporting more than 350 festivals and events across the province. Photo by Evan Holt.

The money is part of a nearly $20-million investment in festivals and events across the province to help organizers expand programming and draw visitors to stay longer in local accommodations, eat in restaurants, shop at local retailers and support main street businesses according to Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP.

“The Curve Lake First Nation Pow Wow is a significant gathering that offers a space for cultural expression, connection, and healing,” he said. “This funding allows the teaching of history, honours traditions, and celebrates community in a way that truly shines a spotlight on Indigenous culture.”

“Our Pow Wow is a meaningful celebration of Anishinaabe culture, identity, and community,” said Keith Knott, Chief, Curve Lake First Nation. “We are grateful to Experience Ontario for recognizing the importance of supporting First Nation-led cultural events. This funding helps ensure that the people who carry these traditions are respected and compensated for their contributions.”

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City of Peterborough Seeking Public Input Sought for Otonabee River Trail and Shoreline Improvement Project This Wednesday

The City of Peterborough invites residents to provide feedback and share ideas on the Otonabee River Trail and Shoreline Improvement Project during an open house at the Holiday Inn Waterfront, 150 George St. N., on Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The project area is along Crescent Street between Haggart Street and the entrance to Del Crary Park.

The project is currently in the conceptual planning stage. At 5:30 p.m., a brief presentation will provide a background overview.

Enhancements could include options such as:

• New active transportation facilities in alignment with the Transportation Master Plan

• Shoreline erosion protection

• Shoreline naturalization

• Improvements to aquatic habitat and native replanting

• Better recreational access to Little Lake for water-based activities

• Traffic calming measures to improve safety

• Creation of enhanced public gathering spaces

The City seeks community input to inform design development and ensure the project reflects community needs and values.

Residents are encouraged to share input on:

• Current use of the area

• Identify challenges and opportunities within the corridor

• Offer ideas for potential improvements

• Help shape priorities for circulation, safety and public space

Feedback gathered at the open house will help guide the development of concept options and inform future phases of the project.

This project is the first phase of the broader Little Lake Loop, a key objective of both the Central Area Master Plan and the Little Lake Master Plan. The City has retained CIMA+ through a competitive RFP process to lead the engineering and design work.

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Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring One Fine Food, Literary Festival, Wild Rock Outfitters and The Play Spot PTBO

PTBOCanada is delighted to be running the Business Beat columns each week here, spotlighting new businesses and startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here is this week’s edition…

One Fine Food has been recognized as one of Canada’s Top 100 Restaurants for Outdoor Dining by OpenTable.

The list is made by analyzing more than 1 million diner reviews and metrics to help Canadians make the most of dining out this patio season. One Fine Food offers a unique dining experience that caters to everyone from shoppers taking a break while checking out their delicious market to foodies seeking a delicious meal in a casual setting. The restaurant sources authentic Italian flavours and recipes. The open kitchen, interactive dining experience, and wood-fired pizza oven add to the ambience. Drop by 800 Erskine Ave. in Peterborough and check out one of Canada’s best patios.

The Lakefield Literary Festival is back July 18 to 19 at Lakefield College School with a children’s tent in downtown Lakefield.

New this year is a shuttle service sponsored by Selwyn Township, which runs from Trent University and stops in Lakefield before reaching Lakefield College School. Once again there’s an impressive lineup and a meet the author reception. The Lakefield Literary Festival showcases Canadian authors and promotes the joy of reading and writing among children and adults. Tickets are available at LakefieldLiteraryFestival.com or drop by Happenstance Books and Yarns in Lakefield.

Wild Rock Outfitters have launched Wild Again, a trade-in and resale program designed to extend the life of outdoor gear while fostering community and environmental stewardship.

The in-store phase one is up and running while the national online platform will launch this summer. Wild Rock invites customers to declutter and trade in lightly used apparel and equipment in exchange for store credit. Participants can also choose to donate their credit to Wild Rock’s ComPassion Project, which supports local social justice and environmental organizations. Check out the basement at Wild Rock for some quality pre-loved gear.

Looking for a place to take your kid where they can explore, play and socialize? The Play Spot PTBO offers just that.

Located at 1524 Lansdowne St. W. Unit 1B in Peterborough, The Play Spot PTBO offers an innovative and safe environment for children to engage in physical, cognitive and social development through play. The aim is to provide a sense of community among families. Daily, weekly, and monthly passes are available. They also offer party packages.

If you want to have your business featured on the Business Beat or know of a business doing something new and interested, shoot an email to joel@pkchamber.ca.

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Premiere Studio of Dance Celebrates Milestone With 25 Years In Peterborough

Premiere Studio of Dance is under the spotlight again as they hit a milestone, celebrating their 25th anniversary this year.

Photo courtesy of Sara Connelly and Premiere Studio of Dance.

To mark the occasion, the studio is hosting year-end recitals from May 28 to 31 at the Showplace Performance Centre. The performances showcase talent from across the region.

Premiere Studio of Dance was founded in June 2000 by Robyn Carter, owner and artistic director. The business began as a dream while she was attending Trent University.

“Our studio has always been about more than just dance,” said Carter. “We’ve grown with our students and our community. Watching young dancers grow in confidence, artistry, and resilience has been the greatest reward.”

Photo courtesy of Sara Connelly and Premiere Studio of Dance.

Over the past two and a half decades, the studio has grown alongside the Peterborough community, serving thousands of families and nurturing generations of dancers.

“I’m most proud of all the dancers and all the families that I’ve gotten to be a part of and share a part of their kids growing up,” explained Carter. “With social media, you can see the kids dance together.”

Premiere students have gone on to achieve remarkable success in both professional and academic arenas — performing on cruise ships, in major cities like New York City, Toronto, London (UK), and Chicago. They have also been accepted into prestigious post-secondary dance programs such as those at Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson), York University, George Brown College and the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in New York City. Several have gone on to become award-winning choreographers, teachers and artists.

“I love Peterborough and the surrounding community,” said Carter. “We continue to grow and we continue to offer great classes for all our communities and continue on and enjoy the journey.”

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Trent Excalibur Rowing Brings Home Two Gold Medals at U.S. Regatta

Trent Excalibur Rowing is coming home with hardware at the Jefferson Dad Vail Regatta in Pennsauken, N.J., with two gold medals and one bronze, which took place on May 10-11.

Trent was one of three Canadian universities competing in this year's event and the only institution to medal. Photo courtesy of Trent University.

The three-day event featured 288 entries from 61 rowing clubs and is considered the largest collegiate regatta in the United States.

Trent saw all its varsity boats advance to the A Finals and both novice crews qualify for the B Finals during Friday’s time trials and semifinals. 

“Our athletes were given an experience unlike anything we have for university rowing competitions in Canada,” said Ugette Vanderpost, varsity rowing coach. “It was a lot of planning, training and driving paired with tremendous resilience against strong winds. I couldn't be prouder of these athletes and coaches. It was an honour to be part of this team's journey.”  

The Excalibur finished second overall in the women’s sculling championship, narrowly missing first place by just three points. 

The following are the results for Trent Excalibur: 

Gold medals: 

• Women’s Single (1x): Tess Friar – 8:20 finish (25 seconds ahead of second place)  

• Women’s Quadruple Sculls (4x): Friar, Emilie Mirfield, Kendall Rose, and Hannah Kavanagh – 7:16 finish (25 seconds ahead of the next shell) 

Bronze medals: 

•  Women’s Double (2x): Caitlyn Cox and Lillian Terpstra – 8:28 finish  

Additional standout performances:  

• 5th Place – Men’s Double (2x): Jessy Kenny and Luke Sullivan  

• 5th Place – Women’s Novice Coxed Four (WF/N 4+): Sam Moss, Danie Green, Elly Hutt, Rebecca Davis, and Daniella Rodrigus  

• 5th Place – Men’s Novice Coxed Four (Novice 4+ racing in Varsity 4+ event): Gus Suddard, Joseff Zwetko-Neher, Braydon Walsh, Sam Farrer (with Hannah Kavanagh substituting as cox in finals). 

Friar was the most successful Trent athlete, walking away with two gold medals. She completed her second year in the Trent Nursing program.

“The level of competition pushed us in new ways and winning both the women's varsity single and the quad this year felt like the perfect reward for all our hard work,” she explained. “The support from our coaches and teammates made it even more meaningful. I’m proud to represent Trent and be part of a team that always strives to raise the bar.”

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