By: Jeanette Wood

Epic Camps, Cool Activities & Family Fun!


As March Break approaches, Peterborough offers a variety of engaging activities for families and individuals. Here's a curated list of events happening around town during the week:

Peterborough Public Library Programs

The Peterborough Public Library offers a variety of programs for different age groups. Here are some highlights:

Preschool Story Time

📅 Date & Time: Monday, March 10, at 10:15 am
📖 Description: A session designed for preschoolers to enjoy stories and develop early literacy skills.
📝 Registration: Not required.
🔗 Program Details

Tech 1 on 1 - Digital Collection Help

📅 Date & Time: Monday, March 10, at 2:00 pm
💻 Description: Personalized assistance to navigate the library's digital resources.
📝 Registration: Required.
🔗 Program Details

Toddler Time

📅 Date & Time: Tuesday, March 11, at 10:15 am
🎭 Description: Interactive stories and activities tailored for toddlers.
📝 Registration: Required.
🔗 Program Details

LEGO Club

📅 Date & Time: Tuesday, March 11, at 4:00 pm
🧱 Description: A creative session for children to build and play with LEGO bricks.
📝 Registration: Not required.
🔗 Program Details

Coding Club

📅 Date & Time: Tuesday, March 11, at 6:00 pm
💡 Description: An opportunity for kids to learn and practice coding skills.
📝 Registration: Required.
🔗 Program Details

For a complete list of events and registration details, visit the Library's Program Calendar.


Peterborough Museum & Archives March Break Camp

🏛 Description: The Peterborough Museum & Archives offers educational and fun activities for children, engaging them with the city's history and culture through interactive sessions.
🔗 More Info & Registration: School Break Camps


Camp Kawartha March Break Camp

📅 Dates: Monday, March 10 - Friday, March 14, 2025
Time: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm daily
🌿 Description: A variety of outdoor and environmental activities aimed at fostering a connection with nature.
💲 Cost: $400 for the week
🔗 More Info & Registration: Event Page


Hutchison House Museum Activities

🏰 Description: Hutchison House is hosting a series of fun crafts and activities over March Break.
📅 Dates & Times: March 8, 11, 12, 13, 14 | 9:30 am - 12:30 pm
🎨 Themes: Each day features a unique theme with hands-on activities for children aged 6 to 12.
💲 Cost: $25 per program
📝 Registration: Required
🔗 More Info: Event Listing


Peterborough Sport & Wellness Centre March Break Camp

📅 Dates: Monday, March 10 - Friday, March 14, 2025
Time: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm
👦 Ages: 4 to 11 years
🎾 Description: This full-week program includes:

  • Daily recreational swims
  • Themed activities and games
  • Indoor and outdoor challenges
  • Special guests
  • Gymnasium play
  • Arts and crafts, drama, and more!

📝 What to Bring: Swim gear, indoor running shoes, lunch and snacks, outdoor weather gear, and a water bottle.
🔗 More Info & Registration: Recreation Programs


Art Gallery of Peterborough March Break Camp

📅 Dates: Monday, March 10 - Friday, March 14, 2025
Time: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
🎨 Ages: 7 to 11 years
🖌 Description: Children will engage in creative art projects, exploring various mediums and techniques under the guidance of experienced instructors.
🔗 More Info & Registration: Art Gallery of Peterborough


Plan your child's March Break with these fantastic activities in Peterborough! Register early to secure a spot. 🚀



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By: Jeanette Wood


Get ready to embrace the frosty fun at PolarFest 2025! Taking place from January 31 to February 2, this weekend is packed with exciting events and activities that capture the spirit of winter in Selwyn. From candlelight skating and a dazzling fireworks display to quirky games like turkey bowling and the Polar Plunge, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re indulging in a fondue dinner, marveling at ice sculptures, or dancing the night away at the 80s Retro Après Ski Party, PolarFest promises a memorable experience for all ages. Mark your calendar and join the celebration of community, winter, and charity this PolarFest season!

PolarFest 2025 Highlights: January 31 - February 2

Friday, January 31

  • Fondue Friday: Warm up with Swiss cheese fondue and wine at Chemong Lodge. Perfect for a cozy evening out!
  • Youth Shinny Hockey: Ages 9+ can hit the ice at the Ennismore Community Centre. Full equipment required!
  • Candlelight Skate: Glide under the stars at the Ontario Speed Skating Oval. Tickets are $10/adult and $5/child.
  • Fireworks & Bonfire: Kick off PolarFest with a bang at Chemong Lodge. Enjoy hot chocolate and a spectacular display.

Saturday, February 1

  • FREE Pancake Breakfast: Swing by Causeway Christian Assembly for a warm and tasty start to your day. Donations appreciated!
  • Ice Sculptures & Crafts: Explore ice art in Bridgenorth and Lakefield or create your own masterpiece with the kids.
  • Turkey Bowling & Polar Paddle: Enjoy quirky winter games like bowling with frozen turkeys or paddling canoes on wheels through downtown Lakefield.
  • 80s Retro Après Ski Party: Dance to throwback tunes, sip from an ice bar, and show off your vintage ski attire at Chemong Lodge.

Sunday, February 2

  • Frosty 5K Run: Brave the chill and hit the trails for a good cause supporting the Lakefield Food Bank.
  • Antique Snowmobiles: Check out classic snowmobiles at Rotary Park.
  • Polar Plunge: Take an icy dip for charity at Rotary Park—an unforgettable way to support local causes!

Fun for All Ages

From public skating sponsored by local businesses to a spaghetti dinner and wine pairings, PolarFest has something for everyone. Celebrate the winter season while supporting the community with these memorable events.

Don’t miss the chance to embrace the frosty fun—join PolarFest 2025! Keep an eye on Selwyn's event pages for weather updates and registration links.

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By: Jeanette Wood

Don't Miss Out!

As the holiday season draws near, communities across Peterborough and the Kawarthas are gearing up for one of the most magical traditions of the year: the Santa Claus parades! These festive events bring together families, friends, and neighbors, filling the streets with twinkling lights, cheerful music, and holiday spirit. Whether you're a long-time resident or visiting for the season, attending a parade is the perfect way to kick off your celebrations and catch a glimpse of Santa himself. In this guide, we’ll share where and when you can experience these joyful parades across the region, so mark your calendars and get ready for some holiday cheer!

Buckhorn Santa Claus Parade

Lindsay Santa Claus Parade

Fenelon Falls Santa Day Parade

  • Date: Saturday, November 30, 2024
  • Time: 5:00 PM
  • More Information: Check out the schedule of events at the Fenelon Falls Santa Day website.
  • Parade Notes: Fenelon Falls goes all out with a Santa Day event. From 11:00 AM there are various downtown activities. The parade takes place in the evening, from 5:00-6:00 PM. And then a 6:00 PM there’s a fireworks display over the falls.

Norwood Santa Clause Parade

  • Date: Saturday, November 30, 2024
  • Time: 7pm
  • More Information: Check out the schedule of events at the Norwood Santa Claus Parade
  • Parade Notes: Theme is Rock Around the Christmas Tree Royal Bank Staff will be walking in the parade
    picking up letters to Santa. They will have Royal Bank Hockey Jerseys on.  

Douro-Dummer Santa Clause Parade

  • Date: Saturday, November 30, 2024
  • Time: 5pm
  • More Information: Check out the schedule of events at Douro-Dummer Santa Parade 
  • Parade Notes: This years theme is Love, light and Peace.  Tree Lighting Ceremony to follow

Apsley Santa Claus Parade

  • Date: Saturday, November 30, 2024
  • Time: 2:00 PM
  • More Information: Visit the Township of North Kawartha Special Events page.
  • Parade Notes: The parade will end at the North Kawartha Community Centre, where there will be hot chocolate, coffee, and tea, loot bags for kids 10 and under, and a visit from Santa.

Omemee Santa Claus Parade

  • Date: Saturday, December 7th 2024
  • Time: 1:00 PM
  • More Information: Visit the Omemee Santa Claus Parade 
  • Parade Notes: This parade starts at Scott Young School with Christmas tree lighting in the evening

49th Annual Peterborough Santa Claus Parade

  • Date: Saturday, December 7th, 2024
  • Time: 4:45 PM
  • More Information: The theme this year will be Rockin’ Christmas! 

Millbrook Santa Claus Parade

  • Date: Saturday, December 14th, 2024
  • Time: 1pm
  • More Information: Parade starts at Millbrook Christian Assembly.  More info at Millbrook Santa Parade

Bobcaygeon Santa Claus Parade

  • Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024
  • Time: 5:00 PM
  • More Information: The parade will be followed by a Super Nova Firework Show at 6:30 PM at Beach Park. Visit the Events page on the Bobcaygeon Chamber of Commerce website for more parade details.

Keene Santa Claus Parade

  • Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024
  • Time: 10am
  • More Information: For more information at Keene Santa Parade .

Enjoy!!!

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By: Jeanette Wood

The holiday season in Peterborough and the Kawarthas is a magical time filled with festive cheer, and one of the best ways to get into the spirit is by exploring the many Christmas markets, craft shows, and bazaars in the region. These events are the perfect opportunity to find unique, handcrafted gifts, enjoy local treats, and support small businesses. Whether you're looking for one-of-a-kind pottery, cozy winter décor, or fresh seasonal goodies, the area offers something for everyone. From Millbrook’s Christmas Market to the charming holiday sales at the Kawartha Potters Guild, there's no shortage of places to shop, celebrate, and enjoy the season. Here’s a roundup of some of the best holiday markets, craft shows, and bazaars you can visit in the Peterborough and Kawarthas area this December!

Check out these fantastic events and make the most of your holiday shopping while supporting local artisans and businesses!


A Very Merry Little Christmas Market

  • Dates: November 17–19
  • Location: Burleigh Falls Inn, Burleigh Falls
  • This cozy event offers a selection of handcrafted items, food, and festive decorations.

 

Holiday Sip & Shop Market

  • Dates: November 17–19
  • Location: Rolling Grape Vineyard, Bailieboro
  • Enjoy holiday shopping along with seasonal beverages like mulled wine in a scenic vineyard setting.

Apsley Holiday Extravaganza

  • Date: November 16
  • Location: Apsley
  • A festive gathering of local vendors offering handcrafted gifts and holiday treats.

Christmas Bazaar at Lang Pioneer Village

  • Date: November 16, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
  • Location: Lang Pioneer Village, Keene 
  • Shop unique handmade gifts and enjoy the historical ambiance at this heritage site.

Christmas Craft and Vendor Market 

  • Date: November 17th, 10am-2pm 
  • Location: Burnt River Community Centre 
  • Free activities for the kids, cookie decorating, make and take Christmas decorations, magic reindeer food and coloring contests. 

Modern Makers Holiday Market

  • Dates: December 1st
  • Location: The Morrow Building
     This indoor market features local makers, holiday décor, and food options.

Christmas Market

  • Date: November 23rd, 2024
  • Location: Hutchinson House Peterborough 9am-12pm
  • A festive market with home baking, shortbread, fruit pies, jams, jellies and preserves, along with other special seasonal treats. 

Millbrook Farmers’ Market Holiday Market

  • Date: November 24, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • Location: Millbrook Arena, Millbrook
     A special holiday market with local vendors, crafts, and seasonal foods.

Candy Cane Corner Christmas Craft Market 

  • Date: December 7th from 10am-5pm
  • Location: Ennismore Community Center, Selwyn

 A holiday market supporting crafters, bakers, artists and small business owners.


With so many wonderful holiday markets, craft shows, and bazaars taking place across Peterborough and the Kawarthas, you’ll have no trouble crossing everyone off your Christmas list this year. From unique handmade gifts to festive treats, these local events are a perfect opportunity to find something special for your loved ones while supporting local artisans and businesses. Whether you're shopping for home décor, jewelry, or something for the foodie in your life, these markets offer an array of options that are sure to make your gift-giving extra meaningful this holiday season. Don't miss out on the chance to shop local, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and finish your holiday shopping with ease!

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