Every musician starts somewhere.

Sometimes it’s in a school music room. Sometimes it’s around a campfire. Sometimes it’s by picking up an instrument for the very first time.

Beginning Saturday, August 1, Peterborough Musicfest is creating more of those first moments with the launch of First Note, a new free program designed to introduce children and youth to the joy of making music.

Before four August concerts, young people are invited to drop into Del Crary Park and try a variety of musical instruments in a fun, welcoming environment. Whether it’s a guitar, keyboard, percussion or another instrument, First Note is all about exploration, curiosity and creativity.

No registration needed.

No experience required.

Just an opportunity to discover what music feels like when you create it yourself.

The program was made possible through the generous support of the Peterborough Foundation, with instruments provided by Long & McQuade.

As Executive Director Tracey Randall often says, “Where’s our next Serena Ryder?”

It might be a child who has never held a guitar before.

It might be someone who discovers a love of rhythm after trying a drum for the first time.

Or it might simply be a young person who leaves Del Crary Park excited to keep making music.

That’s what First Note is all about.

Program Dates

📅 Saturday, August 1
📅 Wednesday, August 5
📅 Saturday, August 8
📅 Wednesday, August 12

🕡 6:30–8:30 PM

📍 Del Crary Park

Drop In. Explore. Play.

The post Music Starts Here: Introducing First Note appeared first on Ptbo Musicfest.

Following its inaugural year in 2025 Woven Stories: A Night of Indigenous Music, Culture and Celebration returns to Peterborough Musicfest for a second year on Saturday, July 18.

Developed in collaboration with local community partners, Woven Stories celebrates Indigenous music, culture and community through ceremony, song and dance. The evening creates an opportunity for audiences to experience Indigenous traditions while bringing people together through shared experiences.

Beginning at 6:45 p.m., concertgoers are invited to arrive early and experience a traditional canoe arrival on the shores of Del Crary Park before the evening continues with drumming, dance and interactive community programming leading into Julian Taylor’s headline performance at 8:15 p.m.

“Woven Stories has become an important part of the Peterborough Musicfest season,” said Executive Director Tracey Randall. “We’re proud to continue building this evening in collaboration with our Iocal community partners. It’s an opportunity to celebrate Indigenous culture while bringing people together through music, learning and shared experiences.”

Evening Schedule

6:45 PM Canoe Arrival & Welcoming Ceremony

The evening begins along the Del Crary Park shoreline with a traditional canoe arrival featuring the Curve Lake First Nation Women’s Hand Drum Group, led by Janet McCue.

7:15 PM Janet McCue & Healing with Drums

Enjoy a collaborative acoustic performance celebrating Indigenous music, storytelling and connection.

7:30 PM Big Drum & Traditional Dance Exhibition

Experience a high-energy performance featuring the Curve Lake Men’s Drum Group alongside traditional dancers.

8:00 PM Interactive Community Round Dance & Closing

Everyone is invited to take part in this welcoming community celebration led by Janet McCue, singers, drummers and dancers

8:15 PM Julian Taylor

Acclaimed singer-songwriter Julian Taylor headlines on the Fred Anderson Stage, closing an unforgettable evening of music, culture and community.

Join Us

Whether you’re discovering Woven Stories for the first time or returning after last year’s inaugural event, we invite you to arrive early and experience an evening unlike any other at Peterborough Musicfest.

Admission is free, so bring a blanket or lawn chair, gather with family and friends, and enjoy an evening that celebrates Indigenous music, culture and community before Julian Taylor takes the stage.

Saturday, July 18, 2026
🕡 Woven Stories begins at 6:45 PM
🎤 Julian Taylor at 8:15 PM
📍 Del Crary Park
🎟️ Free Admission

The post Woven Stories Returns to Peterborough Musicfest appeared first on Ptbo Musicfest.

With these final announcements, the full lineup for the summer is now set, bringing 16 nights of free live music to Del Crary Park.

From legendary Canadian performers and fan favourites to first-time Musicfest artists and emerging talent featured through the Future Sound Series presented by Cogeco, Season 39 promises something for every music fan.

David Wilcox Returns to the Fred Anderson Stage

David Wilcox will make his third appearance on the Fred Anderson Stage when he performs on Saturday, August 8.

A beloved figure in Canadian music for more than four decades, Wilcox has earned a reputation as one of Canada’s most respected guitarists, songwriters, and live performers. With hits including Riverboat Fantasy, Downtown Came Uptown, Bad Apple, and That Hypnotizin’ Boogie, his return is sure to be a highlight of the summer for longtime fans.

Get Ready to Dance with My Son The Hurricane

Making their Peterborough Musicfest debut on Saturday, July 25, My Son The Hurricane brings one of the most energetic live shows in the country to Del Crary Park.

The 12-piece brass-funk collective has built a devoted following by transforming every performance into a full-scale dance party. Featuring multiple horns, drummers, percussionists, guitar, keys, and a charismatic frontwoman, the Niagara-based group delivers an unforgettable live experience unlike anything else on this year’s schedule.

In 2025, the band sold out 45 performances and captured international attention with a viral video that generated more than 30 million views.

Season 39 Is Set

This summer’s lineup features an exciting mix of musical styles and generations of Canadian talent, from iconic Canadian rock and country favourites to harmony-rich folk, brass-funk, tribute acts, and singalong classics.

Artists taking the Fred Anderson Stage this summer include:

• Gowan
• Good Lovelies
• Tyler Joe Miller
• Matthew Good and His Band
• Dwayne Gretzky
• Crash Test Dummies
• David Wilcox
• My Son The Hurricane

The Future Sound Series presented by Cogeco will once again showcase emerging Canadian artists on the side stage before most concerts, creating even more opportunities to discover your next favourite performer.

Your Summer Soundtrack Starts Here

Whether you’re singing along to a favourite song, discovering a new artist, dancing with thousands of fellow concertgoers, or simply enjoying an evening by the lake, Peterborough Musicfest is all about creating shared experiences through live music.

Admission remains free thanks to the support of sponsors, donors, government funders, and our community.

View the complete Season 39 lineup and start planning your summer at Del Crary Park.

.

The post David Wilcox and My Son The Hurricane Complete Peterborough Musicfest’s Season 39 Lineup appeared first on Ptbo Musicfest.

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.

From legendary Canadian icons to fan-favourite touring acts and incredible local talent, this season is set to deliver another unforgettable summer of live music on the waterfront.

As Canada’s longest-running free admission music festival, every concert at Peterborough Musicfest remains 100% free to attend, thanks to the continued generosity of our sponsors, funders, donors, and community partners.

📍 Concert Details

All performances take place at the Fred Anderson Stage in Del Crary Park, right in the heart of downtown Peterborough.

📅 Wednesdays & Saturdays
⏰ 8:00 PM
📆 June 27 – August 19, 2026

Plus, don’t miss our annual Canada Day celebration on July 1, featuring a full evening of entertainment and fireworks over Little Lake.

🌟 Season 39 Lineup Highlights

This year’s lineup brings together an incredible mix of genres, generations, and unforgettable live performances, including:

• 🎸 Crash Test Dummies
• 🎤 Sass Jordan
• 🎶 Julian Taylor
• 🚚 Trans-Canada Highwaymen
• 🎻 Lighthouse
• …and more artists still to be announced!

With powerhouse performances, hometown favourites, and legendary names taking the stage, there’s truly something for everyone this summer.

And yes — we still have TBA artists coming soon 👀

🇨🇦 Canada Day at Musicfest

Celebrate Canada Day with us at Del Crary Park on July 1, featuring live entertainment and a spectacular fireworks display over the lake — proudly presented in partnership with the City of Peterborough.

What’s New This Year

In addition to this incredible artist lineup, several exciting programs are returning for the 2026 season:

Future Sound Series presented by Cogeco: Returning with an expanded presence in 2026, the Future Sound Series continues to spotlight emerging local and regional talent before select headlining performances, giving audiences even more live music to enjoy throughout the summer.

Woven Stories: Our celebration of Indigenous music, culture, and storytelling returns on July 2 with an evening designed to honour and showcase Indigenous artists and voices.

Expanded Food Vending: A wide variety of food trucks and vendors will once again be part of the Musicfest experience, helping make Del Crary Park a full evening destination for concertgoers.

50/50 Raffle: Back by popular demand, our fundraising raffle gives attendees the chance to win while supporting the future of barrier-free live music in Peterborough.

Start Planning Your Summer

With 16 nights of live music — all by the lake and all for free — Peterborough Musicfest continues to bring the community together through unforgettable shared experiences. We are Canada’s longest-running free admission music festival!

Check out the full lineup and concert details at ptbomusicfest.ca/concerts and follow us on social media (@ptbomusicfest) for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and artist spotlights.

We can’t wait to see you at the park this summer! 🎶🎙

The post The Full 2026 Peterborough Musicfest Lineup Is Here! appeared first on Ptbo Musicfest.

There’s a certain kind of country artist who doesn’t need to shout to be heard—and Tyler Joe Miller has built his career in that space, where craft carries more weight than spectacle.

Since breaking through with his Gold-certified, #1 debut single “Pillow Talkin’,” Miller has built one of the more impressive résumés in Canadian country. He became the first independent Canadian country artist to land back-to-back #1 hits with “I Would Be Over Me Too,” and has since earned nine Top 10 singles, a 2021 SiriusXM Top of the Country win, and multiple JUNO and CCMA nominations. His latest EP, Going Home—nominated for 2025 CCMA Album of the Year—continues that trajectory, grounded in themes of love, loss, and resilience.

What to Expect Live

On stage, his songs open up. They stretch out, settle in, and before long, the crowd is right there with him. It’s the kind of set that feels easy to fall into—where the connection builds naturally and the night takes on its own rhythm.

With an upcoming appearance at the CCMA Awards this September—and nominations for Male Artist of the Year and Fans’ Choice—Miller’s Musicfest debut comes at the right time. He’s firmly established, but still very much on the rise.

Make a Night of It

Arrive early to take in the full Musicfest experience, including the Future Sound Series presented by Cogeco, a lineup of local food vendors, and the always-popular 50/50 raffle draw.

Each summer, Peterborough Musicfest draws more than 100,000 attendees to Del Crary Park, offering free access to live music in one of the most scenic waterfront settings in the region.

Event Details found HERE

Peterborough Musicfest – Season 39
Dates: June 27 – August 19, 2026
When: Every Wednesday & Saturday at 8:00 PM

For updates, lineup announcements, and more information follow along on social media @ptbomusicfest.

The post Tyler Joe Miller Makes His Musicfest Debut on July 15 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.