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Summer in Peterborough and the surrounding Kawarthas is nothing short of magical. With its stunning lakeside views, warm community spirit, and vibrant arts and culture scene, the region comes alive with festivals that celebrate music, food, creativity, and connection. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or visiting for the season, these festivals offer something special for everyone.
Kawartha Craft Beer Festival
📅 Dates: June 6–7, 2025
📍 Location: Del Crary Park, Peterborough
💵 Admission: Ticketed
Beer lovers rejoice! The Kawartha Craft Beer Festival is the perfect way to kick off the summer season. With more than 15 local breweries and cideries offering samples, plus live music, lawn games, and tasty bites from food vendors, it’s a lively and social event in a picture-perfect waterfront location. This festival is a fantastic opportunity to explore Ontario’s booming craft beverage scene in a fun, relaxed setting.
Kawartha Yarn & Fibre Festival
📅 Date: June 14, 2025
📍 Location: Fenelon Falls Community Centre
💵 Admission: Ticketed
Calling all crafters and fibre artists! This one-day event brings together over 75 vendors offering yarn, roving, spinning supplies, handmade goods, and more. Visitors can explore vendor booths, enjoy hands-on demonstrations, and connect with other creatives. The festival also supports start-up businesses and indie dyers with a “mini-market” section. Whether you’re a knitter, spinner, or just love handmade textiles, this event is a cozy, colourful treat.
Peterborough Musicfest
📅 Dates: June 28 – August 16, 2025
📍 Location: Del Crary Park, Peterborough
💵 Admission: Free
Peterborough Musicfest is a true summer staple. This free concert series runs twice a week all summer long at the scenic Del Crary Park, right on Little Lake. With acts ranging from Canadian rock legend Kim Mitchell to U2 tribute band Acrobat and the traditional Celtic sounds of The Mudmen, there’s something for every music lover. Bring your lawn chair, grab a snack from the food trucks, and enjoy a sunset performance in a truly unforgettable setting.
Canada Day Celebrations – Peterborough
📅 Dates: June 30 – July 1, 2025
📍 Locations: Quaker Foods City Square, City Hall, Millennium Park, and Del Crary Park
💵 Admission: Free
Canada Day in Peterborough is a two-day celebration packed with activities, music, and fireworks. The 2025 theme, “Roll, Stroll, and Celebrate,” promises fun for all ages, with accessible and inclusive programming across downtown and the waterfront. Highlights include a citizenship ceremony, multicultural food vendors, live performances, a family zone, and a spectacular fireworks display over the lake.
Lock & Paddle 2025
📅 Date: July 19, 2025
📍 Location: Peterborough Lift Lock
💵 Admission: Free
A truly one-of-a-kind event, Lock & Paddle invites hundreds of paddlers to float together in canoes and kayaks as they ascend the world’s highest hydraulic lift lock. Held in celebration of Canada’s Parks Day, this free community gathering is as much a visual spectacle as it is a celebration of history and togetherness. Whether you’re joining the paddle or watching from the sidelines, it’s a uniquely Peterborough experience you won’t want to miss.
Peterborough Folk Festival
📅 Dates: August 14–17, 2025
📍 Location: Nicholls Oval Park, Peterborough
💵 Admission: Free
This long-standing community event celebrates its 36th year in 2025. The Peterborough Folk Festival is one of Canada’s only remaining free, multi-day folk festivals. It showcases over 30 performers, including 12 local artists, and highlights a commitment to inclusivity, environmental sustainability, and family-friendly entertainment. With artisan vendors, a kids’ zone, workshops, and delicious local food, this festival is a must-attend for all ages.
Bobcaygeon Craft Beer and Food Festival
📅 Date: August 16, 2025
📍 Location: Kawartha Settlers’ Village, Bobcaygeon
💵 Admission: Ticketed
Set in the charming Kawartha Settlers’ Village, this festival combines great local brews with delicious food and small-town hospitality. Wander through historic buildings while sampling craft beer and cider from regional producers, enjoy live music, and soak in the rustic charm of one of the area’s most unique venues. It’s a relaxed, down-to-earth event with big flavour.
Kawartha Lakes Classic Cycling Tour
📅 Date: August 23, 2025
📍 Location: Kawartha Lakes
💵 Admission: Registration Required
More than just a ride, the Kawartha Lakes Classic is a celebration of active living and scenic beauty. With routes ranging from 18 km family rides to 160 km advanced routes, cyclists of all skill levels can enjoy a day of fresh air and countryside charm. Proceeds support local community services, making it a fun and meaningful way to get moving this summer.
Kawartha Arts Festival
📅 Dates: August 30–31, 2025
📍 Location: Fenelon Falls
💵 Admission: Free
Set in the heart of cottage country, the Kawartha Arts Festival is a celebration of visual art in all forms. Over 100 artists showcase their work—ranging from painting and sculpture to jewellery and photography. The festival also features live artist demos, a kids’ art showcase, and a chance to meet the creators behind the work. It’s a great way to support local talent and bring home a one-of-a-kind piece of art.
Plan Your Summer Adventure
Peterborough and the Kawarthas truly shine in summer, offering unforgettable experiences for music lovers, foodies, artists, families, and adventure-seekers alike. Mark your calendars, gather your friends, and make the most of these amazing events.
📍 Need more info or want to explore more events?
