Lighthouse burst on the scene in 1969 with an explosive sound that defied all conventions. Their unique blend of rock, jazz and classical influences made them one of the most dynamic concert acts of their time. Between 1970 and 1974 they were awarded 4 Junos, 9 gold records and 3 platinum while hits such as One Fine Morning, Sunny Days, Hats Off to the Stranger, 1849 and Pretty Lady raced to the top of Canadian and International charts.
Lighthouse was the first Canadian rock band asked to headline the Newport, Monterey and Boston Globe Jazz Festivals; the first to perform with Symphony Orchestras and the first to collaborate with a Classical Ballet Company. Lighthouse was the only act invited to perform a second night at the legendary 1970 Isle of Wight Festival among acts that included The Who, Miles Davis, Joni Mitchell, Chicago and The Doors.
Back home in Toronto, the band’s free concerts at Nathan Phillip’s Square attracted one hundred thousand people. Lighthouse toured up to three hundred days a year performing to standing ovations across North America, Europe and Asia with an emphasis on concerts in the cities, towns and small hamlets of every province across the country. It would be hard to find a person who lived in Canada through the 1970s who didn’t see the group live. They were, and remain, Canada’s band.
After regrouping several times, Lighthouse permanently reunited in 1990. The band continues to record and tour, performing with the same free-wheeling, hard-driving sound that has kept them on the airwaves and in the hearts of fans for more than 50 years. Recent honours include inductions into the Canadian Songwriter’s Hall of Fame and Canada’s Walk of Fame. The band’s newest release is a vinyl double-album Anniversary Edition of One Fine Morning, remixed and remastered, and a second album of never-released demos.
Lighthouse features co-founder Paul Hoffert leading an all-star line-up that includes 1970 original member Russ Little with Dan Clancy, Doug Moore, Marc Ganetakos, Chris Howells, Simon Wallis, Michael Stuart, Peter Kadar and Paul DeLong.
Peterborough Musicfest is Canada’s longest-running free admission music festival, bringing world-class live music to the heart of downtown Peterborough every summer. Set against the scenic backdrop of Little Lake at Del Crary Park, Musicfest has been a beloved community tradition for almost 40 years, welcoming over 100,000 residents and visitors each season.
Concerts take place every Wednesday and Saturday evening from the end of June to mid August, offering a diverse lineup of Canadian and international artists spanning rock, pop, country, indie, folk, and more. Each concert night begins with the Future Sound Series at 6:30 pm, followed by the main performance at 8:00 pm, showcasing both emerging talent and celebrated performers on the Fred Anderson Stage.
Peterborough Musicfest is proudly free and barrier-free, making live music accessible to everyone. The park features accessible seating areas, nearby parking, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a summer evening by the water. On-site food vendors and nearby restaurants and patios add to the vibrant downtown experience.
Located steps from shops, dining, and accommodations, Peterborough Musicfest is a must-see summer experience that highlights the city’s creative spirit, supports local businesses, and creates unforgettable nights of live music under the stars.
