The Peterborough Folk Festival (PFF) returns for its 36th annual edition, taking place August 14–17, 2025, at the scenic Nicholls Oval Park by the Otonabee River in Peterborough, Ontario. Renowned as Canada’s longest-running free-admission folk festival, PFF draws an enthusiastic crowd of around 15,000 each year.
🎵 What to Expect
Four days of entertainment — featuring a kick-off gala concert (ticketed) and a free, family-friendly weekend festival, boasting multiple stages of live music, vendors, workshops, and cultural presentations .
Three main stages:
Miskin Law Main Stage (headliners from across Canada)
Generation Solar Stage (interactive workshops, acoustic sets, cultural programming)
Cameron’s Pavilion (beverage service, live music)
Children’s Village, with crafts, face-painting, storytelling, family yoga, instruments, and performances.
Artisan & Food Villages filled with local crafters, vendors, and food options to enjoy .
Eco‑conscious initiatives: composting, reusable dish programs, free water stations, solar-powered stage, bicycle valet parking, and mobility mats for accessibility .
🎤 Artists & Emerging Talent
Line‑up highlights: This year features national and regional acts such as Basia Bulat, Joel Plaskett, Goldie Boutilier, My Son the Hurricane, and Grievous Angels. While final set times are due in August, the schedule already promises a vibrant mix of folk, roots, indie, and diverse cultural styles .
Emerging Artist Award: Jeanne Truax, a dynamic rockabilly-rock 'n' roll artist, is the 2025 recipient. Winners perform on the main festival stages and receive industry mentoring and a $1,000 PMBA Lynn Morris Memorial Award .
Past winners like Serena Ryder (2001) underscore the festival’s role in nurturing talent .
🤝 Community & Values
PFF is a volunteer-run, registered charity, backed by a dedicated board, sponsors, and community donors. Core values include:
Inclusivity & accessibility, with a proactive approach to removing barriers
Diversity & equity, spotlighting Indigenous, LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and differently-abled artists and audiences .
Environmental stewardship, emphasizing sustainability and low-impact operations .
Support for local culture, through emerging artist initiatives and showcasing regional talent .
🧩 How to Get Involved
Free to attend — donations encouraged to sustain the festival.
Volunteer opportunities: From eco‑team and children’s activities to hospitality and setup crews, roles come with perks like festival tees, food/drinks, and community-service hours .
Artist submissions: Closed for 2025, but open again for 2026 later this year. Local and visiting artists are encouraged to apply .
Support as a sponsor or donor via the website to help fund artists, accessibility, and festival magic.
💡 Insider Tips
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Arrive early | Opening at 11 AM on the weekend — early means better seating and full experience. |
| Plan logistics | Utilize bike valet, parking, or shuttle services; pack layers and picnic essentials. |
| Engage with activities | Children’s Village offers great family activities; solar stage hosts enriching workshops. |
| Grab a keepsake | Artisan village is perfect for unique local crafts — ideal for souvenirs. |
| Bring a donation | Even a small contribution supports free admissions and festival continuity. |
🌟 Why You Should Go
The Peterborough Folk Festival is more than just live music — it's a vibrant celebration of shared values. With its inclusive atmosphere, focus on sustainability, nurturing of emerging artists, and passion for folk culture, PFF offers a rich four-day experience that resonates with community spirit and cultural discovery. It’s a highlight of Peterborough's summer and a testament to the enduring power of live, local, and accessible live arts.
Mark your calendars for August 14–17, 2025, and prepare for an unforgettable celebration by the river — music, creativity, and community in full harmony.
Stay in the Loop: Visit peterboroughfolkfest.com or subscribe to updates for lineup announcements, schedules, volunteer info, and shuttle details.