Special Occasions • 27 June 2025

How to Host the Perfect Canada Day BBQ

by CENTURY 21 United Realty Inc. Brokerage

Canada Day is the perfect excuse to gather your favourite people, fire up the grill, and celebrate summer in true Canadian style. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or a relaxed family get-together, a few thoughtful touches can take your BBQ from basic to brilliant. Here’s how to host the ultimate Canada Day BBQ that your guests will remember long after the fireworks fade.

1. Plan Your Guest List and Layout

Start with a headcount so you can plan food, seating, and drink quantities. Set up zones in your yard or patio—one for grilling, one for eating, and one for relaxing or playing games. Add some shade with umbrellas or a pop-up tent if the forecast calls for sun.

2. Deck Out in Red and White

Lean into the theme with red-and-white decor, Canadian flags, and fun touches like maple leaf bunting or themed tableware. Mason jars with red flowers or mini Canadian flags make great centrepieces. Don’t forget a patriotic playlist—think The Tragically Hip, Shania Twain, and Neil Young!

3. Craft a Crowd-Pleasing Menu

Keep it simple but satisfying. Classic BBQ fare like burgers, hot dogs, sausages, and grilled veggies are always a hit. For a true Canadian twist, consider:

Maple-glazed salmon or chicken
Poutine bar with toppings
Butter tarts or Nanaimo bars for dessert
Caesar cocktails or local craft beer

Set up a self-serve drink station with coolers or a canoe filled with ice and beverages.

4. Keep the Kids Happy

If you’re expecting younger guests, add some kid-friendly activities like bubble wands, sidewalk chalk, water balloons, or a sprinkler. Red-and-white Canada Day temporary tattoos or mini flags also make fun giveaways.

5. Make It Entertaining

Lawn games like cornhole, ladder toss, or giant Jenga encourage guests to mingle. In the evening, bring out sparklers and blankets so everyone can enjoy the fireworks in comfort.

6. Prep Smart and Grill Like a Pro

Do as much food prep as possible the day before. Marinate meats, chop veggies, and set up your serving table. On the big day, stay close to the grill and cook in batches so food is hot and fresh throughout the afternoon.

7. Safety First

Keep a fire extinguisher handy, make sure your grill is clean and positioned safely away from your house, and always keep an eye on the kids near open flames or hot surfaces.

Final Tip: Keep It Chill

You don’t need to go overboard. Canada Day is all about connection and community, so focus on the people, not perfection. With a few festive touches and good food, your BBQ will be a hit no matter what.

Top Outdoor Projects to Tackle to Get Your Outdoor Space Ready for Summer

by CENTURY 21 United Realty Inc. Brokerage

Summer in Peterborough and the Kawarthas is something truly special. With our beautiful lakes, rolling countryside, and long sunny days, it’s no wonder so many of us look forward to spending as much time outside as possible. Whether you’re relaxing at home, entertaining friends and family, or listing your home for sale, a well-designed outdoor space adds serious value and enjoyment.

If your backyard, patio, or deck is looking a little worse for wear—or just needs a seasonal refresh—here are the top outdoor projects to tackle this year to get your space summer-ready.

1. Refresh Your Patio or Deck

After a long Ontario winter, your patio or deck probably needs some attention. Start with a good pressure wash to remove built-up grime, then reseal any wood surfaces to protect them from the summer sun and rain. If you don’t yet have a dedicated outdoor living space, installing a deck or stone patio is a great investment—both for your lifestyle and your property value.

Local Tip: Cedar and composite decking hold up well in our climate and require less maintenance than traditional pressure-treated wood.

2. Create Zones for Lounging, Dining, and Entertaining

Think of your yard as an extension of your home—each “room” should have a purpose. Whether you have a small city lot in Peterborough or a sprawling cottage property in the Kawarthas, dividing your outdoor space into distinct areas for relaxing, cooking, and playing helps it feel organized and intentional.

Add a cozy seating area around a fire pit, a dining table under a pergola, and a few lounge chairs in a sunny spot for maximum usability.

3. Upgrade Your Outdoor Furniture

Comfortable, durable furniture makes all the difference. Opt for weather-resistant pieces made from teak, resin wicker, or powder-coated metal. Add cushions in summer-friendly fabrics like Sunbrella for extra comfort and easy maintenance.

If you’re short on space, try a bistro table set or folding loungers that can be tucked away when not in use.

4. Incorporate Shade Solutions

The sun can be intense in July and August, especially during peak afternoon hours. Adding shade is not only practical but makes your space much more inviting.

Options include:

Retractable awnings
Pergolas with climbing vines
Shade sails
Large patio umbrellas

These features help keep you cool while protecting furniture from UV damage.

5. Add Outdoor Lighting for Evening Enjoyment

Once the sun goes down, good lighting allows the fun to continue. Soft, ambient lighting adds atmosphere, while pathway and deck lights improve safety.

Some popular lighting options include:

String lights over a patio or fence line
Solar garden stakes along walkways
Spotlights on trees or garden beds
Lanterns or LED candles for tabletops

Pro tip: A mix of lighting styles keeps things functional and cozy.

6. Install a Fire Pit or Outdoor Fireplace

Nothing says summer nights like sitting around a crackling fire. Portable propane fire tables, classic wood-burning fire pits, or even a full outdoor fireplace can turn your yard into a gathering place from May through October.

Remember to follow local bylaws in Peterborough or your specific township when it comes to open fires and distance requirements.

7. Beautify Your Landscaping

A little landscaping goes a long way. Clean up overgrown shrubs, edge your lawn, and add colourful perennials or annuals for a seasonal boost. In the Kawarthas, native plants like coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and bee balm attract pollinators and thrive in local soil.

Raised garden beds are another great addition—ideal for growing herbs, veggies, or cut flowers. They’re low-maintenance and perfect for beginners.

8. Add Water Features for a Spa-Like Vibe

Even a small fountain or bubbling rock can add a sense of calm to your backyard. If you live near a lake or river, consider building a dock or creating a natural shoreline garden that blends seamlessly with the environment.

For city lots, solar fountains or ceramic birdbaths are low-effort, high-reward projects.

9. Build Privacy Into Your Design

A little privacy makes your outdoor space feel like a retreat. Options to consider include:

Lattice screens with climbing plants
Tall planters with ornamental grasses
Fast-growing hedges like cedar or dogwood
Fencing upgrades or additions

This is especially useful if your yard backs onto other homes or a busy road.

10. Organize Your Storage and Tools

No one wants to trip over toys or dig for gardening tools. Set up a tidy storage shed or deck box to house outdoor gear, sports equipment, and cushions. Install wall hooks or shelves in your garage to keep things off the floor and out of the way.

A clean, clutter-free yard always feels more inviting—and it’s easier to maintain.

Bonus: Set the Mood with Decor and Personal Touches

Outdoor rugs, throw pillows, planters, and art can bring your space to life. Choose colours and textures that complement your home’s style, and don’t forget to mix in some local flair—maybe a handmade sign from the Lakefield Farmers’ Market or Muskoka chairs in your favourite cottage-country colour.

13 June 2025

Your Ultimate Guide to a Stress-Free Cottage Weekend

by CENTURY 21 United Realty Inc. Brokerage

There’s nothing quite like escaping to the cottage for a weekend of fresh air, quiet mornings, and evening bonfires. But between packing, planning, and getting out the door, even a simple weekend getaway can come with its fair share of stress. The good news? With a bit of prep, your next cottage escape can be all about peace, not pressure.

Here’s your ultimate guide to a stress-free cottage weekend.

1. Start with a Simple Packing List

Avoid the chaos of overpacking or forgetting the essentials by making a checklist. Keep it short and organized by category:

Clothing: Think layers—hoodies, bathing suits, a rain jacket, and comfy loungewear.
Toiletries: Bring the basics, plus bug spray and sunscreen.
Food & Drink: Plan simple meals (bonus if you prep ahead), and don’t forget snacks and coffee!
Entertainment: Books, cards, Bluetooth speaker, maybe a board game or two.

Pro tip: Keep a laminated list in your weekend bag to reuse every time you go.

2. Prep Food Before You Go

You’re not heading to the cottage to spend hours in the kitchen. Do some light meal prep before you leave—marinate meats, chop veggies, or make a pasta salad. Prepping a few grab-and-go breakfasts like muffins or overnight oats can make your mornings easier too.

3. Leave Work at Home

Set an out-of-office reply. Mute notifications. Let your contacts know you’ll be off the grid. A true cottage weekend should feel like a break from the daily grind—not just a change of scenery. If you’re tempted to check emails, consider leaving your laptop behind altogether.

4. Time Your Drive Smartly

Nothing kills the vibe like sitting in traffic. If you can, leave on Thursday evening or early Friday to beat the rush. Make sure your car is gassed up, your directions are saved (especially if cell service is spotty), and your playlist is queued.

5. Make Room for Doing Nothing

It can be tempting to pack your weekend full of hikes, boat rides, and BBQs. But don’t forget to leave time for doing absolutely nothing. Sip your coffee on the dock. Take a nap in a hammock. Watch the sunset. The best memories are often the slow, simple moments.

6. Bring the Right Company

Whether it’s your partner, your kids, or your closest friends, the people you share your weekend with make all the difference. Choose company that’s low-drama, up for a laugh, and comfortable with a little unplugged time.

7. Unplug to Recharge

Cottages and tech don’t always mix—thankfully. Use the spotty Wi-Fi as a cue to disconnect. No social media scrolls, no doom-scrolling news, just fresh air, good conversation, and maybe a starry sky.

A stress-free cottage weekend doesn’t have to mean total off-the-grid living—it just takes a little planning and a willingness to slow down. Pack light, prep ahead, and embrace the ease of cottage life. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows by the fire or enjoying a quiet paddle across the lake, the goal is simple: unwind, recharge, and come home feeling better than when you left.

10 June 2025

Transform Your Patio: Easy & Stylish DIY Outdoor Furniture Ideas

by CENTURY 21 United Realty Inc. Brokerage

Is your patio looking a little… uninspired? Before you break the bank on pre-made outdoor furniture, consider the satisfying and often budget-friendly world of DIY! Creating your own patio pieces not only adds a unique, personalized touch to your outdoor space but also gives you the pride of knowing you built it yourself.

Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, there’s a project for everyone. Here are some fantastic DIY outdoor furniture ideas to get your creative juices flowing and transform your patio into an inviting oasis.

1. Pallet Perfection: Versatile & Trendy

Wooden pallets are a DIY dream! They’re often free or very inexpensive, readily available, and incredibly versatile. With a bit of sanding, sealing, and imagination, you can create:

Lounge Seating: Stack pallets to create a base for a comfy outdoor sofa or sectional. Add outdoor cushions and throw pillows for a luxurious feel.
Coffee Tables: A single pallet on casters makes for a rustic and movable coffee table. You can even add a glass top for a smoother surface.
Vertical Herb Gardens/Planters: Stand pallets upright and add shelves to create a beautiful and functional vertical garden.

Pro Tip: Always check pallets for any chemical treatments (look for “HT” for heat-treated, which is generally safer) and give them a good cleaning and sanding before use.

2. Crate & Barrel (Not the Store, the Concept!): Simple & Chic

Wooden crates, whether new or salvaged, offer a charming and adaptable base for various furniture pieces.

Side Tables: Stack two or three crates on their sides to create an open and airy side table. The open compartments are perfect for storing books, blankets, or even extra drinks.
Storage Benches: Line up several crates, secure them together, and add a padded top for a clever storage bench that’s perfect for stashing outdoor essentials.

3. Concrete Blocks & Wood: Modern Industrial Flair

For a sturdy, modern, and surprisingly simple solution, combine concrete blocks with lumber.

Sofa Bases: Stack concrete blocks in a desired configuration, then lay thick pieces of lumber (like 4x4s or 6x6s) across them to create a robust base for cushions. This look is very “architectural” and cool.
Planter Benches: Create a bench with concrete blocks and lumber, incorporating open sections in the blocks to act as built-in planters for succulents or herbs.

4. Spool Savvy: Repurpose Cable Spools

Large wooden cable spools (often found at construction sites or utility companies) are fantastic for creating unique, circular pieces.

Outdoor Dining Tables: With a good cleaning, sanding, and a fresh coat of paint or stain, a large cable spool makes a fantastic, rustic outdoor dining table.
Side Tables/Ottomans: Smaller spools can be transformed into quirky side tables or, with added padding, unique ottomans.

5. Upcycled Tire Seating: Fun & Functional

Give old tires a new lease on life! While they might not be the first thing you think of for furniture, tires can be transformed into surprisingly comfortable and durable seating.

Ottomans/Stools: Cover a tire with rope, fabric, or even spray paint, then add a padded top for a fun and robust ottoman or stool.
Planters: While not furniture, tires also make excellent, durable planters for a pop of greenery.

Before You Start Your DIY Project:

Measure Your Space: Know the dimensions of your patio to ensure your furniture fits comfortably.
Consider Durability: Choose materials that can withstand outdoor elements (sun, rain, snow). Treat wood with outdoor-grade sealants or paints.
Comfort is Key: Don’t forget cushions and pillows! These can make even the simplest DIY piece incredibly comfortable.
Safety First: Always use appropriate safety gear (gloves, eye protection) and follow proper tool safety guidelines.
Get Inspired: Browse Pinterest, Instagram, and other DIY blogs for endless ideas and tutorials.

So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create! With a little effort and creativity, you can craft beautiful, functional, and personalized outdoor furniture that will make your patio the envy of the neighbourhood. Happy building!

Market Stats • 6 June 2025

Real Estate Market Analysis for May 2025

by CENTURY 21 United Realty Inc. Brokerage

The latest real estate data for May 2025 is in, and it reveals a market that continues to adjust to evolving economic conditions. While activity has remained relatively steady, both home prices and sales have seen a modest dip compared to this time last year. Here’s a breakdown of what the numbers are telling us.

Market Snapshot – May 2025 vs. May 2024

Average Sale Price: $639,394 (down 4.2% from $667,111 in May 2024)
Number of Sales: 109 homes sold (down 4.4% from 114)
Active Listings: 315 (up from 254 – a 24% increase)
Average Days on Market: 24

What Does This Mean for Buyers?

Buyers may find some relief in the current market compared to the competitive conditions we’ve seen in recent years. The combination of a slightly lower average sale price and a growing number of active listings means more options and more negotiating power. With homes sitting on the market for an average of 24 days, there’s also a bit more breathing room to make informed decisions without rushing into multiple offer situations.

What Does This Mean for Sellers?

While the average sale price has dipped slightly year-over-year, the Peterborough market is still performing within a healthy range. Sellers may need to adjust their pricing strategies and expectations, particularly with inventory levels on the rise. That said, well-presented and correctly priced homes are still moving within a reasonable timeframe. Professional marketing, staging, and pricing your home competitively will remain key to attracting buyers.

A Market in Balance?

The increase in active listings paired with only a modest decline in sales volume suggests that Peterborough is edging toward more balanced market conditions. This can create a healthier environment for both buyers and sellers, reducing the extreme highs and lows we’ve seen over the past few years.

Looking Ahead

As we move into the summer months, it will be interesting to see if buyer activity increases with the warmer weather or if affordability concerns continue to temper demand. For now, the market remains stable with a slight lean toward favouring buyers — but opportunities still exist on both sides of the transaction.

Have questions about the Peterborough market or what these numbers mean for your plans?

We always have an agent on duty to help. Call our office at 705-743-4444 and we will be happy to direct you to a REALTOR® to answer your questions.

Highlighted below are some of the major areas we cover with our stats:

3 June 2025

How to Organize a Successful Community Yard Sale

by CENTURY 21 United Realty Inc. Brokerage

Hosting a community yard sale is a great way to connect with neighbours, clear out unwanted items, and make a little extra cash. Whether you live in a tight-knit neighbourhood or a growing subdivision, organizing a yard sale together creates a fun, collaborative event that benefits everyone involved. Here’s how to pull it all together.

1. Gauge Interest in Your Community

Before setting a date, talk to your neighbours to see who’s interested. A group chat, a community Facebook group, or a simple door-to-door flyer can help spread the word and get a sense of numbers. The more participants, the better the turnout!

2. Pick a Date (and Rain Date!)

Choose a weekend date with enough time to prepare and promote. Saturday or Sunday mornings are usually best. Be sure to select a backup rain date in case the weather doesn’t cooperate.

3. Get the Word Out

Promotion is key! Here are a few ways to market your event:

Create a Facebook event and share it widely.
Post on local buy & sell or community groups.
Use posters and signs around the neighbourhood and at major intersections.
Add your sale to online directories like Kijiji, Craigslist, or community calendars.

Encourage participants to spread the word too!

4. Make a Map or Address List

If your neighbourhood is spread out, create a simple map or list of participating homes so shoppers can plan their route. You can print copies or share a digital version in your promotional posts.

5. Plan for Traffic and Signage

Good signage helps people find your sale! Use bold arrows and large lettering to direct shoppers. You might also want to assign volunteers to help with parking if space is limited.

6. Help Each Other Prepare

Share tips on pricing, display, and setup with your neighbours. Consider pooling resources like tables, change float, or even offering a central table for kids to sell lemonade or baked goods.

7. Make It Fun

Turn the yard sale into a mini event! Play music, offer snacks, or invite local vendors or food trucks to set up. This helps draw a bigger crowd and creates a festive atmosphere.

8. Plan for Leftovers

Encourage everyone to donate unsold items to a local charity or arrange a pickup with a donation service. That way, everyone goes home lighter — and with less clutter.

A community yard sale is more than just a chance to declutter — it’s a fun way to meet your neighbours, create connections, and build a stronger community. With a little planning and teamwork, your yard sale can be a highlight of the season!

27 May 2025

Quick & Clever Cleaning Hacks for Busy Families

by CENTURY 21 United Realty Inc. Brokerage

Let’s face it—between work, school, sports practices, and trying to get dinner on the table, cleaning the house can feel like an impossible task for busy families. The good news? You don’t need to spend hours scrubbing to keep your home feeling fresh and functional. These smart cleaning hacks are designed to save time and help your whole family pitch in.

1. Make Cleaning Part of the Routine

The easiest way to keep mess under control is to build small cleaning tasks into your daily routine. Try these time-savers:

Wipe bathroom counters while brushing your teeth.
Clean as you cook to avoid a mountain of dishes.
Set a timer for a daily 10-minute tidy-up with the whole family.

2. Use Baskets for Fast Decluttering

Keep a basket in each main room of the house. When clutter starts to pile up—random toys, books, or socks—just toss them in the basket. At the end of the day, each family member can take their basket and return items to their proper places.

3. Put Your Dishwasher to Work

Your dishwasher can clean more than just dishes. Toss in plastic toys, range hood filters, toothbrush holders, and even baseball caps (top rack only!). Just be sure the items are dishwasher-safe.

4. Keep Cleaning Supplies Where You Use Them

Instead of storing all your cleaning products in one spot, keep a small caddy of essentials (multi-surface spray, microfibre cloths, etc.) in each bathroom or level of the house. You’re more likely to do a quick clean-up if the supplies are right there.

5. Invest in Time-Saving Tools

Robot vacuums, spray mops, and handheld vacuums can be game-changers for keeping floors and surfaces clean with minimal effort. Even kids love using them—win-win!

6. Teach Kids Simple Tasks Early

Even toddlers can help with easy chores. Make it fun! Use a chore chart or reward system to motivate them. Ideas for age-appropriate tasks:

Toddlers: Pick up toys, put dirty clothes in the hamper.
School-aged kids: Make beds, wipe counters, sweep.
Teens: Load/unload dishwasher, vacuum, clean bathrooms.

7. Do a “Laundry Load a Day”

Rather than letting laundry pile up for the weekend, try doing one small load a day—from wash to fold to put away. It makes the task feel more manageable and prevents laundry mountains from taking over your weekend.

8. Use Dryer Sheets to Dust Baseboards

This little trick saves time and keeps dust away longer. Dryer sheets not only remove dust but also leave behind a static-resistant coating, so dirt doesn’t settle as quickly.

9. Make Cleaning Fun with Music or Podcasts

Turn on a fun playlist, podcast, or audiobook and turn cleaning into a “me-time” activity—or a dance party for the whole crew.

10. Don’t Aim for Perfection—Aim for Progress

Your home doesn’t need to be magazine-perfect. The goal is to make life feel a little more organized and a little less stressful. Some days, doing the bare minimum is more than enough.

Keeping a clean home when you’ve got a full calendar and busy kids is no small feat—but with a few clever shortcuts and the right mindset, it’s totally doable. Remember: it’s about progress, not perfection. And with the whole family pitching in, you’ll spend less time cleaning—and more time enjoying the people you share your home with.

Tips & Tricks • 16 May 2025

How to Market and Show Your Cottage to Attract the Right Buyers

by CENTURY 21 United Realty Inc. Brokerage

If you’re selling your cottage, you already know it’s more than just a piece of property—it’s a place full of memories, weekend getaways, and peaceful escapes. But when it comes time to list it for sale, you’ll want to make sure it’s presented in a way that appeals to the right buyers. Working with a real estate agent can make all the difference, especially when it comes to marketing and showing your cottage.

Here are some key tips to help your agent showcase your cottage in its best light:

1. Highlight What Makes It Unique

Cottages aren’t one-size-fits-all. Some are perfect for families, others are ideal for fishing, boating, or just enjoying a quiet retreat. Talk to your real estate agent about what made you fall in love with the property and what future buyers might appreciate. Is it a sunset view? Sandy shoreline? Great local trails? Your agent can use those features as selling points in the listing description and marketing materials.

2. Stage It for the Cottage Lifestyle

You don’t have to completely redecorate, but a bit of thoughtful staging goes a long way. Your real estate agent may recommend:

Decluttering and removing overly personal items
Setting the table for a casual summer meal
Placing Muskoka chairs around the firepit
Opening the windows to let in natural light and fresh air

The goal is to help buyers envision themselves relaxing, entertaining, and making memories there.

3. Professional Photos and Videos Matter

Cottage buyers often start their search online, so high-quality visuals are essential. Your agent should hire a professional photographer (and possibly a videographer or drone operator) to capture the charm of your property, especially the waterfront, outdoor spaces, and any standout features. A short lifestyle video can help evoke the emotional connection that draws buyers in.

4. Create a Digital and Print Marketing Plan

An experienced agent will promote your listing through multiple channels, including:

MLS and cottage-specific listing sites
Social media (with beautiful visuals and targeted ads)
Email marketing to their buyer network
Print brochures or feature sheets at the property

Ask your agent if they offer additional marketing tools, like a custom website or virtual tour.

5. Plan Showings Around Accessibility

Many cottages are located in rural or seasonal areas, so accessibility is key. Make sure your agent knows how to give buyers easy access (without compromising security). Depending on the season, your agent may schedule showings during daylight hours and advise buyers on what to expect for road conditions, boat access, or utilities.

Pro tip: If you’re not living there full-time, consider leaving the lights and heat or A/C on, and give your agent a detailed list of how to operate anything that may need special instructions (like a well pump or septic system).

6. Provide Important Property Info Upfront

Buyers want to feel confident about their purchase, so be prepared to share:

Property survey or lot lines
Recent upgrades or maintenance records
Information about shoreline rights, septic system, water source, and winter access
Any rental history, if it’s an investment opportunity

Your real estate agent can gather all of this into a feature sheet or document package that’s shared with interested buyers.

7. Be Flexible and Responsive

In a competitive cottage market, buyers may want to move quickly. Trust your agent’s guidance on timing and price, and be as responsive as possible to showing requests or offers. If you’re not staying at the cottage regularly, your agent can arrange for staging, cleaning, and showing appointments in your absence.

Marketing your cottage effectively takes more than a “For Sale” sign and a few photos. A knowledgeable real estate agent will help you craft a compelling story around your property, attract serious buyers, and handle the logistics of showings, even from a distance.

With the right plan in place, you’ll not only reach more potential buyers, you’ll make sure your beloved getaway ends up in good hands.

Want help selling your cottage in Peterborough or the Kawarthas? Our experienced agents know the local market and how to make waterfront and rural listings shine. Give us a call at 705-743-4444 and we’ll connect you with the right REALTOR® for your needs.

Events • 13 May 2025

Essential Summer Festivals in and Around Peterborough, Ontario

by CENTURY 21 United Realty Inc. Brokerage

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?

Market Stats • 8 May 2025

Real Estate Market Analysis for April 2025

by CENTURY 21 United Realty Inc. Brokerage

The April 2025 housing stats are in, and they tell the story of a balanced but evolving real estate market in the City of Peterborough. While sales activity remained steady compared to the same time last year, other indicators show that buyers are taking more time — and possibly enjoying a bit more choice — than they did a year ago.

Key Stats at a Glance:

Stat	April 2025	April 2024	Year-Over-Year Change
Average Sale Price	$612,761	$651,251	-5.9%
Number of Sales	99	99	0%
Active Listings	239	179	+33.5%

Price Dip Creates Opportunities

The average sale price in April 2025 was $612,761 — a 5.9% decrease from April 2024. This drop may come as a surprise, especially given the flat number of sales year-over-year, but it reflects broader market adjustments as interest rates, inflation, and affordability continue to shape buyer behaviour. For buyers who were priced out of the market last spring, this could present a renewed opportunity to get into the market at a lower price point.

Inventory is Up — Giving Buyers More Choice

One of the most notable changes is the increase in active listings. With 239 homes on the market in April 2025, inventory is up more than 33% compared to the 179 listings in April 2024. This shift signals a more balanced market, where buyers aren’t feeling the same urgency or competition that defined earlier years.

More inventory generally translates to more negotiation power for buyers and, in many cases, less pressure to make snap decisions. Sellers, on the other hand, may need to ensure their pricing is competitive and that their homes are well-prepared for showings to stand out.

Homes Are Taking Longer to Sell

Homes took an average of 26 days to sell in April 2025 — a sign that the pace of the market has slowed slightly. This gives buyers a little more breathing room when making decisions, but it also underscores the importance of strategic marketing and realistic pricing for sellers.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you’re thinking of buying, now might be the time to explore your options. Prices have softened slightly, and there’s more inventory to choose from than we’ve seen in previous springs.

If you’re considering selling, success is still very possible — but it may require a bit more preparation and guidance. Pricing your home appropriately and working with an experienced real estate professional will help ensure your property attracts serious buyers.

Have questions about the Peterborough market or what these numbers mean for your plans?

We always have an agent on duty to help. Call our office at 705-743-4444 and we will be happy to direct you to a REALTOR® to answer your questions.

Highlighted below are some of the major areas we cover with our stats: