Over a career spanning more than three decades, Matthew Good has earned a reputation as one of Canada’s most distinctive musical voices. First as the frontman of the Matthew Good Band and later as a solo artist, he has consistently delivered music that combines powerful melodies, thoughtful lyrics, and unflinching observations about the world around him.

Fans can expect a setlist packed with songs that helped define Canadian alternative rock, including “Hello Timebomb,” “Load Me Up,” “Apparitions,” “Everything Is Automatic,” and “Indestructible,” alongside material from his acclaimed solo catalogue.

The Matthew Good Band emerged as one of Canada’s defining rock acts of the late 1990s, earning JUNO Awards for Best Group and Best Rock Album for Beautiful Midnight. Since launching his solo career in 2002, Good has continued to evolve as a songwriter and performer, earning 21 JUNO Award nominations and building a catalogue that remains as relevant today as ever.

Plan Your Evening

Food vendors will open at 5:00 p.m., offering a variety of local favourites throughout the park. Peterborough Musicfest volunteers will also be selling tickets for the 50/50 fundraising raffle draw during the evening.

As Matthew Good and his band make their first-ever Peterborough Musicfest appearance, a large crowd is expected. Concertgoers are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the park, grab dinner, and secure a good viewing location before the performances begin.

Visit our FAQ page

Event Details

Wednesday, July 22, 2026
Future Sound Series presented by Cogeco
Graeme Jonez – 6:30 p.m. | Side Stage

Main Stage Performance
Matthew Good and His Band – 8:00 p.m. | Fred Anderson Stage

Admission is free thanks to the support of Peterborough Musicfest sponsors, donors, government funders, and community partners.

The post Matthew Good and His Band to Headline Peterborough Musicfest on July 22 appeared first on Ptbo Musicfest.

Peterborough Musicfest is back for its 39th season, and we’re launching the 2026 lineup with two acts that know exactly how to light up the Fred Anderson Stage: Gowan and Dwayne Gretzky.

Mark your calendars—these are two nights you won’t want to miss.

Gowan — June 27 | Free Concert at Del Crary Park

A returning favourite, Gowan is set to make his fourth appearance at Peterborough Musicfest on Opening Night Saturday, June 27, 2026.

Known for turning every show into a full live experience, Gowan brings powerhouse vocals, theatrical energy, and a catalogue of Canadian hits that have stood the test of time. Expect to hear classics like “A Criminal Mind,” “Strange Animal,” and “Moonlight Desires”—the kind of songs that hit even harder in a live, outdoor setting.

From the first note to the final encore, this free concert in Peterborough is built for a big crowd and a big night on the waterfront.

Dwayne Gretzky — July 29 | A Full-On Summer Dance Party

On July 29, 2026, Dwayne Gretzky returns for their sixth appearance—and if you’ve been before, you already know what that means.

With a catalogue of more than 800 songs spanning the 70s, 80s, and 90s, Dwayne Gretzky doesn’t just play a show—they create a non-stop, crowd-driven experience. Every set is packed with back-to-back hits, turning Del Crary Park into a massive dance party where everyone knows the words and can sing along.

It’s high-energy, it’s nostalgic, and it’s one of the most fun nights of the summer—another must-see free concert at Peterborough Musicfest.

More Than Just Concerts

Peterborough Musicfest is more than the music—it’s the full summer experience.

When you’re heading down to the park, you can expect:

A lineup of local food vendors
The always-popular 50/50 draw
The return of the Future Sound Series presented by Cogeco, spotlighting emerging artists

And we’re just getting started—more 2026 lineup announcements are coming soon.

Plan Your Visit

All concerts take place at Del Crary Park and are free to attend, making Musicfest one of the most accessible live music experiences in Canada.

Whether you’re coming for a specific show or making it part of your weekly summer routine, Peterborough Musicfest continues to bring thousands of people together on the shores of Little Lake.

Plan your Visit here

Don’t Miss the First Shows of the Season

Two unforgettable nights announced with more to come. One incredible summer ahead.

👉 Gowan — June 27, 2026
👉 Dwayne Gretzky — July 29, 2026

We’ll see you at the park! 🎶

The post Gowan and Dwayne Gretzky Kick Off Peterborough Musicfest 2026 Lineup appeared first on Ptbo Musicfest.

Festival Food Vendor Opportunities

🍔 Bring your culinary delights and satisfy the cravings of thousands of festival-goers. Our food vendor spaces are perfect for showcasing your delicious menu items to a hungry and enthusiastic crowd.

Why Choose Peterborough Musicfest?

🎼 Be part of one of the most anticipated events of the summer: Join us in creating unforgettable memories and celebrating music, community, and connection.

🎶 Reach a diverse and enthusiastic audience: Our festival attracts a wide range of visitors, giving you the perfect opportunity to expand your customer base.

🎵 Multiple vendor packages available: We offer various packages to suit your needs, ensuring you get the most out of your festival experience.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to grow your business and be part of the magic at Peterborough Musicfest!

How to Apply as a Peterborough Musicfest Food Vendor

📅 Apply Now: Peterborough Musicfest food vendor applications now open. Visit Peterborough Musicfest Vendor Application to apply for your spot today. Please include a completed Waiver Form with your submission. Complete the form and email it to vendor@ptbomusicfest.ca. Hurry, spaces are limited!

Important Information

• 📆 Application Deadline: May 30, 2026

Join us and be part of the summer’s most exciting event. We can’t wait to see what you bring to Peterborough Musicfest’s 39th Season! 🚀

The post Calling All Vendors! Join Us for Season 39 at Peterborough Musicfest appeared first on Ptbo Musicfest.

Peterborough Musicfest has been officially recognized as a Top 100 Festival in Ontario by Festivals & Events Ontario (FEO).

The annual Top 100 designation celebrates festivals and events across the province that demonstrate excellence in community engagement, economic impact, innovation, and overall visitor experience. This recognition places Peterborough Musicfest among Ontario’s leading cultural events.

Nearly 40 Years of Free Live Music in Peterborough

For nearly four decades, Peterborough Musicfest has transformed the shores of Little Lake into a vibrant summer gathering place. Presented free of charge at Del Crary Park along the historic Trent–Severn Waterway, our concert series remains one of Ontario’s longest-running free outdoor music festivals.

Each summer, tens of thousands of residents and visitors travel to Peterborough to experience live music on the waterfront — contributing to downtown vibrancy, tourism activity, and regional economic impact.

“This recognition belongs to our volunteers, sponsors, artists, donors and every single person who joins us on the waterfront each summer,” said Tracey Randall, Executive Director of Peterborough Musicfest. “Musicfest has always been about access, energy and community — and this honour reflects the strength of Peterborough.”

City of Peterborough Applauds Top 100 Recognition

In a joint statement, City Councillors and Community Services Co-Chairs Lesley Parnell and Alex Bierk added:

“Congratulations to Peterborough Musicfest on being named one of the Top 100 Festivals by Festivals & Events Ontario. As we look forward to the 39th season beginning on June 27, we recognize the work of Musicfest’s staff, board, and volunteers in creating one of Peterborough’s most beloved summer traditions — a celebration of culture, creativity, and community along the historic Trent-Severn Waterway.”

A Cultural Anchor and Economic Driver

The Top 100 Festival recognition reinforces Peterborough Musicfest’s role as both a cultural anchor and an economic driver for the region. By keeping concerts barrier-free and accessible, Musicfest strengthens community connection while supporting local restaurants, hotels, retailers, and tourism partners.

As the organization prepares to launch its 39th season on June 27, Peterborough Musicfest remains committed to:

• Keeping concerts free and accessible
• Showcasing diverse, world-class talent
• Supporting local businesses and partners
• Delivering unforgettable waterfront experiences

Nearly 40 years strong, Peterborough Musicfest continues to demonstrate how an independent, community-supported not-for-profit can deliver world-class impact in Peterborough, Ontario.

The post Peterborough Musicfest Named One of Ontario’s Top 100 Festivals & Events appeared first on Ptbo Musicfest.

Every summer, thousands of people gather at Del Crary Park to experience live music together. It’s part of what makes Peterborough feel like home. But what happens on our stage has an impact that reaches far beyond a single night in the park.

At Peterborough Musicfest, we see live music as more than entertainment. It is economic infrastructure, a community connector, and a driver of opportunity for our region.

Live Music Drives Economic Impact

Across Canada, live music plays a meaningful role in the national economy. According to Hear and Now: Understanding the Economic Power and Potential of Canada’s Live Music Industry, a landmark economic impact study commissioned by the Canadian Live Music Association (CLMA), the live music sector contributes more than $10 billion in GDP annually, supports over 100,000 jobs, and generates nearly $4 billion in tax revenues nationwide.

Those figures place live music alongside major industries such as fisheries and automotive manufacturing — reinforcing that culture is not a side activity, but a serious contributor to economic growth.

Here in Peterborough, that national impact becomes local.

For nearly four decades, Peterborough Musicfest has brought people together in Del Crary Park — creating shared experiences that enrich lives and support our local economy.Each season reinforces a simple truth: live music is more than a summer tradition. It plays a meaningful role in building strong communities and a vibrant future for Peterborough and the Kawarthas.

Musicfest also invests locally by hiring staff, contracting suppliers, and working with dozens of local businesses — all while remaining committed to accessibility and inclusion.

Pressures on Live Music

Despite its impact, the live music sector faces growing challenges. Rising production costs, inflation, changing consumer behaviour, and funding uncertainty continue to affect festivals and venues across Canada. Many communities have also lost smaller venues due to redevelopment and rising rents, weakening the grassroots music ecosystem.

For barrier-free festivals like Musicfest, sustained community support is essential to delivering world-class programming at no cost to audiences.

Opportunities Beyond the Stage

Live music remains a proven tourism driver, but its value extends further. Participation in festivals — on stage or behind the scenes — builds transferable skills like teamwork, adaptability, communication, and confidence. These experiences strengthen the local workforce and contribute to long-term community resilience.

Festivals also create inclusive public spaces where people connect, improving quality of life and helping communities attract residents, talent, and investment.

A Lasting Community Asset

For nearly four decades, Peterborough Musicfest has brought people together in Del Crary Park — creating shared experiences that enrich lives and support our local economy.

Each season reinforces a simple truth: live music is more than a summer tradition. It plays a meaningful role in building strong communities and a vibrant future for Peterborough and the Kawarthas.

Help Keep Peterborough Musicfest Thriving

Peterborough Musicfest relies on community support to deliver free, barrier-free concerts each summer. Here are three ways to support us:

The post Live Music in Peterborough: More Than a Summer Concert appeared first on Ptbo Musicfest.

If you’ve ever felt the energy of a live concert at Del Crary Park, you already know there’s something special about Peterborough Musicfest. What you may not see is the incredible team of volunteers behind the scenes who help make every show possible.

As we look ahead to Summer 2026, Peterborough Musicfest is inviting community members to join our volunteer team and be part of Canada’s longest running free-admission music festival. Volunteering with Musicfest is more than lending a hand — it’s about contributing to unforgettable nights of live music and creating meaningful community experiences.

Why Volunteer with Peterborough Musicfest?

Our volunteers are truly the heartbeat of Musicfest. Each concert night, they help ensure the park is welcoming, safe, and running smoothly for thousands of music lovers.

As a volunteer, you may:

• Welcome and assist VIPs and special guests (Ushers)
• Sell 50/50 raffle tickets in support of the festival (Fundraising)
• Help direct patrons and answer questions at Del Crary Park (Guest Services)
• Support on-site operations that keep concert nights flowing (Parking)

No matter the role, every volunteer plays an important part in bringing live music to the waterfront.

Who Can Volunteer?

• Ages 14 and up (students welcome!)
• Able to commit to a minimum of 5 concert nights over the summer
• Friendly, reliable, and excited to be part of a community event

No prior experience is required — just a positive attitude and a willingness to help.

Why Volunteer at Peterborough Musicfest?

🎵 Be part of the energy that brings live concerts to life
🎵 Give back to the Peterborough community
🎵 Meet new people and make lasting connections
🎵 Support a free, accessible music festival for everyone
🎵 Gain valuable experience in events, hospitality, and teamwork

If you’re looking for a meaningful way to connect, contribute, and make summer memories — this is it.

👉 Ready to Join the Musicfest Volunteer Team?

Help make Summer 2026 unforgettable at Del Crary Park.

The post Be Part of the Magic: Volunteer with Peterborough Musicfest in Summer 2026 appeared first on Ptbo Musicfest.

It might be winter right now, but we’re already counting down to summer. We’re excited to share that Peterborough Musicfest is back for its 39th season, returning to Del Crary Park from June 27 to August 19, 2026 with free live music by the lake every Wednesday + Saturday night at 8pm.

Once again, the Fred Anderson Stage will come alive on warm summer nights as the sun sets over Little Lake and our community gathers for live music in the heart of downtown Peterborough. It’s the same Musicfest you know and love — great artists, relaxed vibes, and unforgettable evenings by the water.

A Summer Tradition in Peterborough

As Canada’s longest-running free admission music festival, Musicfest has been part of Peterborough summers for nearly four decades. Every season brings a mix of legendary performers, fan favourites, and exciting new artists — all on a stage that’s open and accessible to everyone.

“Musicfest has always been about bringing people together,” says Tracey Randall, Executive Director of Peterborough Musicfest. “There’s something really special about sharing live music by the lake. It creates connection, joy, and memories that last well beyond the summer. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back to the park in 2026.”

Getting Ready for Summer 2026

Planning for the 2026 season is already well underway. Our team is busy booking artists, working with partners, and shaping another great summer of concerts. Lineup announcements and special season highlights will be shared in the months ahead.

You can also look forward to some familiar favourites returning this year, including:

• Our popular 50/50 Raffle Draw
• The Invest in Musicfest donation campaign
• A variety of local food vendors in the park
• Pre-show activities that make concert nights even more fun

2026 Season at a Glance

• Dates: June 27 – August 19, 2026
• When: Every Wednesday and Saturday at 8:00 p.m.
• Where: Del Crary Park, Peterborough, Ontario
• Admission: Always FREE, thanks to our generous sponsors

For updates, lineup announcements, and everything Musicfest, be sure to visit www.ptbomusicfest.ca and follow us on social media.

See you at the Park!

Ways to Support Peteborough Musicfest

Volunteer with Peterborough Musicfest

Support Musicfest through sponsorship

Donate for a Tax receipt

Buy a Diner’s Book

The post Summer Is Calling: Peterborough Musicfest Announces Dates for Season 39! appeared first on Ptbo Musicfest.

Food Vendors

🍔 Bring your culinary delights and satisfy the cravings of thousands of festival-goers. Our food vendor spaces are perfect for showcasing your delicious menu items to a hungry and enthusiastic crowd.

Retail or Service Vendors

🛍️ Showcase your products or services and connect with a vibrant crowd eager to explore what you have to offer. From innovative products to unique services, there’s a place for you at our festival.

Why Choose Peterborough Musicfest?

• 🎶 Reach a diverse and enthusiastic audience: Our festival attracts a wide range of visitors, giving you the perfect opportunity to expand your customer base.
• 🎵 Multiple vendor packages available: We offer various packages to suit your needs, ensuring you get the most out of your festival experience.
• 🎼 Be part of one of the most anticipated events of the summer: Join us in creating unforgettable memories and celebrating music, community, and connection.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to grow your business and be part of the magic at Peterborough Musicfest!

How to Apply

📅 Apply Now: Visit Peterborough Musicfest Vendor Application to apply for your spot today. Please include a completed Waiver Form with your submission. Complete the form and email it to vendor@ptbomusicfest.ca. Hurry, spaces are limited!

Important Information

• 📆 Application Deadline: May 30, 2025

Join us and be part of the summer’s most exciting event. We can’t wait to see what you bring to Peterborough Musicfest’s 38th Season! 🚀

The post Calling All Vendors! Join Us for Season 38 at Peterborough Musicfest appeared first on Ptbo Musicfest.

Please check your tickets and be in touch if you have the winning ticket. If you are our lucky winner, please contact our offices at 705-755-1111 or via email at info@ptbomusicfest.ca.

If you didn’t win tonight, you’ll have another chance on Wednesday, August 14th at the Choir! Choir! Choir!. Ticket sales reopen at 8am tomorrow morning. https://bit.ly/PMF5050

The post Ticket #B-17771 You Are A Winner! appeared first on Ptbo Musicfest.

Please check your tickets and be in touch if you have the winning ticket. If you are our lucky winner, please contact our offices at 705-755-1111 or via email at info@ptbomusicfest.ca.

If you didn’t win tonight, you’ll have another chance on Saturday July 20th at the Beau Dixon Band show. Ticket sales reopen at 8am tomorrow morning. https://bit.ly/PMF5050

The post Ticket # C-7802 You Are A Winner! appeared first on Ptbo Musicfest.