Summer in Peterborough just hits differently—and that’s thanks in large part to Musicfest, the city’s beloved free concert series that’s back for its 38th season!

From June 28 to August 16, Del Crary Park will once again transform into a vibrant lakeside music venue, welcoming a diverse lineup of performers every Wednesday and Saturday night at 8:00 PM. With genres ranging from indie folk to retro rock, country to Celtic, this year’s Musicfest promises a little something for everyone.

🎤 What’s New in 2025?

Musicfest 2025 will showcase an incredible mix of JUNO-winning headliners, local legends, and international acts. A special Irish-themed week honours the 200th anniversary of the Peter Robinson settlers, and the newly launched Future Sounds Stage will give local up-and-coming artists their moment to shine before select mainstage acts.

Best of all? Every single concert is absolutely FREE.

📅 Full Musicfest 2025 Performance Schedule

Here’s the official lineup in order—mark your calendars!

🌟 Community Vibes & Local Impact

Musicfest draws over 100,000 people each summer and pumps more than $4 million into the local economy. The atmosphere at Del Crary Park—picnic blankets, sunsets over Little Lake, families, friends, and music lovers of all ages—captures what summer in Peterborough is all about.

If you want to go the extra mile, consider supporting the fest by purchasing a Diner’s Book, becoming a Fest Friend, or volunteering behind the scenes.

🎸 Why You Should Go

• It’s free. Seriously. No tickets, no gates—just music and good vibes.

• It’s diverse. From Celtic tenors to Canadian rock icons, there's something for every music taste.

• It’s local. Celebrate emerging artists and long-time legends alike, right in the heart of downtown Peterborough.

• It’s unforgettable. Where else can you catch Serena Ryder, Steven Page, Sloan, and Kim Mitchell under the stars?

Whether you’re a longtime local or visiting for the first time, Peterborough Musicfest 2025 is your invitation to kick back, tune in, and soak up the soundtrack of summer.

🎶 See you at the park!

Get ready for a weekend of fun, tradition, and community spirit! The Millbrook Spring Fair, one of Ontario’s oldest agricultural celebrations, returns June 12–15, 2025, at the Millbrook Fairgrounds (13 Frederick St). Whether you're a longtime resident or a curious visitor, this four-day event blends rural heritage with modern entertainment in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.

🌟 A Storied Legacy

• The Fair dates back to the 1830s, with the Agricultural Society officially marking 1849 as its inception. It transitioned from a fall event to spring in 1942 and has been held in June ever since.

• Its logo—an iconic pig and clown—symbolizes the fair's agricultural roots and playful entertainment, a design by Karen Shaughnessy adopted in 1980.

📅 Event Details & Schedule

Dates: Thursday, June 12 – Sunday, June 15, 2025
Hours:

• Thurs: 5 pm–midnight

• Fri: 2 pm–12:30 am

• Sat: 9 am–12:30 am

• Sun: 9 am–4 pm 

Admission:

• Family admission options available (check official site for current pricing)

Opening Day Highlights (Thursday):

• Children’s Day (9:30 am–1:30 pm): Interactive farm-themed activities and wagon rides

• 5 pm: Gates open with midway rides, vendors, and the Trackside Lounge

• 6:45 pm: Official fair opening and Ambassadors crowning ceremony

• 7:30 pm: Democross racing at the Grandstand featuring Impact Motorsports

• Late-evening entertainment at the Beer Barn and DJ music (Age-of-majority event) 

🐄 What to Expect: Events & Attractions

Motorsports & Races

• Democross and Demolition Derby by Impact Motorsports

• Truck & Tractor Pulls and Lawn Mower Races 

Agriculture & Livestock Shows

• Junior & Open Beef Cattle Shows

• Rabbit Shows

• Antique Tractor Displays & Pulls 

Homecraft & Exhibits

• Homecraft judging and displays (quilts, preserves, baked goods)

• Maple syrup entries and prize-winning bake auction

• Durham Farm Connections interactive trailer 

Family Fun

• Petting Pals Zoo open most of the week

• Free horse-drawn wagon rides on Saturday (12:45–4 pm)

• Parade on Saturday at noon, plus Sunday horse shows 

Evening Entertainment

• Beer Barn & Trackside Lounge with live music nightly

• Performances by DJ services, Ambush (Friday), Braden Simon (Saturday)

• Age-of-majority events with cover charges ($10) 

🌾 Why You Should Go

• Rich heritage: Witness a 174-year-old tradition—agriculture, crafts, and grassroots pride.

• All-ages appeal: From kids’ activities to motorsports and laid-back evening music, there’s something for everyone.

• Hands-on learning: Educational exhibits—like Children’s Day and the farm trailer—highlight rural life and conservation.

• Community vibe: Chat with local farmers, artisans, volunteers, and the 2023–2025 Fair Ambassador, Kathryn Lang 

💡 Tips for Visitors

1. Plan around your interests: Want motorsports? Come evenings. Prefer family activities? Arrive early on Thursday or Saturday.

2. Wristbands required for access—purchase in advance to skip lines.

3. Bring cash/cards for the midway (ride coupons), concessions, vendors, and auction purchases.

4. Parking is on-site; carpool where possible.

5. Check for updates: Follow Millbrook Fair on Instagram or Facebook for schedule changes or special announcements 

🎯 Final Word

The 174th Annual Millbrook Fair is more than an event—it’s a celebration of what makes Ontario rural life so special. With its mix of agricultural showcases, high-energy racing, creative exhibits, and communal joy, it’s an experience that resonates across generations. Mark your calendar for June 12‑15 and join in the fun in Peterborough County’s charming Millbrook community!

Let me know if you'd like help planning your visit—parking, nearby restaurants, or things to do in the area around Millbrook!

When the sun is shining and the breeze is just right, there’s no better way to enjoy downtown Peterborough than by grabbing a seat on a patio with your favorite people, a great drink, and something delicious to eat. Whether you're here for brunch, date night, or just looking to soak up the summer vibes, this city has a patio for every kind of moment.

Here are 5 must-visit patios in downtown Peterborough that combine great food, perfect views, and a little something special:

🌇 1. Riley’s Rooftop Patio

Location: 251 George St N
Vibe: Casual, lively, scenic

Riley’s is known for its laid-back atmosphere and extensive menu, but what really sets it apart is the rooftop patio—a true hidden gem. From up here, you get a beautiful view of downtown and the Otonabee River. It’s the perfect place to catch the sunset while enjoying a burger, fish tacos, or a cold pint. If you’re patio-hopping, this one is a must for your golden hour stop.

☕ 2. Silver Bean Café

Location: 130 King St (Millennium Park)
Vibe: Peaceful, picturesque, local favorite

Tucked along the waterfront in Millennium Park, the Silver Bean Café offers a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere with one of the most peaceful patio views in the city. Grab a coffee and breakfast sandwich in the morning, or pop by for a fresh salad or wrap at lunch. Bonus: you’ll likely see kayakers, paddleboarders, or even live music in the park while you’re there.

🍕 3. The Publican House Brewery

Location: 294 Charlotte St
Vibe: Rustic, inviting, brewery cool

Craft beer lovers, rejoice! Publican House offers a shaded outdoor patio right beside their brewery and restaurant, featuring their popular brick oven pizzas, creative appetizers, and full lineup of in-house brews. This patio is perfect for casual get-togethers or a spontaneous afternoon with friends. Don’t miss their signature Square Nail Pale Ale—it’s a local favourite.

🌅 4. Riverside Grill & Lounge (Holiday Inn)

Location: 150 George St N
Vibe: Waterfront, relaxed, underrated gem

Located in the Holiday Inn, this patio often flies under the radar—but once you’ve had breakfast or a cocktail right on the Otonabee River, you’ll want to keep coming back. It’s ideal for a peaceful brunch or an evening dinner with boats passing by and the water just a few feet away. A true hidden gem with an unbeatable view.

🍻 5. St. Veronus Café & Tap Room

Location: 129 Hunter St W
Vibe: European beer garden, cozy, character-rich

Tucked into a quiet corner of Hunter Street, St. Veronus offers one of the most unique patio experiences in Peterborough. Inspired by Belgian beer cafés, the patio feels like a little escape to Europe, complete with an incredible menu of import beers and classic pub fare with a twist. Whether you’re a beer lover or just looking for a different kind of downtown vibe, this spot delivers.

🍹 Wrap-Up: Your Summer Patio Tour Starts Now

Whether you’re meeting friends after work, planning a weekend brunch, or looking for a solo spot to sip something cold and people-watch, Peterborough’s downtown patios offer variety, atmosphere, and seriously good eats.

So go ahead—start your own summer patio crawl, try something new, and celebrate the warm days while they last. You might just find your new favorite hangout spot.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 14, 2025, as Peterborough's Dragon Boat Festival returns to Del Crary Park for its 24th annual celebration. This vibrant event combines exhilarating races with community spirit, all in support of the Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) Foundation

🚣 What to Expect

Hosted by the Survivors Abreast Dragon Boat Team, the festival features:

• Dragon Boat Races: Teams paddle across Little Lake, showcasing teamwork and endurance.

• Artisan and Food Vendors: Explore local crafts and savor diverse culinary delights.

• Family Fun Zone: Engaging activities for children and families.

• Beer Garden: Relax and enjoy refreshments while taking in the festivities.

• Breast Cancer Flower Ceremony: A poignant tribute honoring those affected by breast cancer.

The festival is more than just a race; it's a community gathering that has raised over $4.5 million since its inception in 2001, directly benefiting cancer care services at PRHC. 

🏆 Get Involved

Team registration opens on February 15, 2025, at ptbodragonboat.ca. The first three teams to register will receive a complimentary dragon boat lake practice. 

Whether you're paddling, volunteering, or cheering from the sidelines, your participation supports vital cancer care advancements at PRHC, ensuring patients receive top-tier treatment close to home.

📍 Event Details

• Date: Saturday, June 14, 2025

• Time: Starting at 7:00 AM EDT

• Location: Del Crary Park, 1 Rink St, Peterborough, ON 

Join the community in making waves for a cause. For more information and to register, visit the official Peterborough's Dragon Boat Festival 2025 page.

Here’s What You Need to Know

If you're thinking about upsizing—maybe for more space, a growing family, or to move into a better school district—it’s completely normal to have a number in mind for what you’d like to get for your current home. Most homeowners do. But here’s the honest truth: the market determines your home’s value, not your personal expectations.

That can be a hard pill to swallow, especially if you’ve made improvements over the years or have a strong emotional connection to your home. But when it comes to real estate, market conditions are the real deciding factor.

It’s Not Just About What You Sell For—It’s About the Spread

One of the biggest misconceptions sellers have is focusing solely on the sale price of their current home. While getting top dollar is great, what really matters is the “spread”—the difference between what you sell for and what you pay for your next property.

Let’s say the market has cooled slightly. Yes, you might sell for a little less than what you were hoping. But that dream home with the extra bedroom, finished basement, or access to top-rated schools? It’s probably listed for less now too. Lower prices work in your favour on both sides of the deal—and in many cases, upsizing in a balanced or cooler market can actually make better financial sense than trying to make a move in a hot, competitive one.

The Risk of Fixating on One Number

Holding out for a specific number can lead to missed opportunities. Real estate is all about timing, and if you wait too long for the “perfect price,” you could miss your window to upsize while the math is still in your favour.

And if interest rates shift or inventory tightens again? You may find yourself in a market where it costs more to buy your next home—even if your current one finally sells for what you wanted.

Let’s Run the Numbers

If you’re on the fence and wondering if now is the right time to move up, let’s look at the full picture—not just your home's value, but also what’s out there for you to move into. I can help you calculate your spread and see whether it makes sense to make a move now or wait.

Shopping for a new home is exciting—but it’s easy to get swept up in the surface details and miss the factors that really matter. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned mover, here are the top 5 things to pay close attention to when viewing a home.

1. Location, Location, Location

You can change a house, but you can't change where it sits. Look beyond the walls and focus on the neighbourhood. Ask yourself:

• Is it close to work, schools, or public transit?

• Are there parks, restaurants, or amenities nearby?

• What’s the noise level and traffic like?

• Does the area feel safe and welcoming?

Take a walk around the block. View the home at different times of day if possible. A great house in the wrong location can become a regret down the road.

2. Layout and Functionality

Don’t just look at square footage—pay attention to the flow of the home. Think about how the space fits your lifestyle:

• Is the kitchen functional and well laid out?

• Are the bedrooms in the right spot (especially for families)?

• Is there enough storage?

• Do the living spaces feel open or cramped?

It’s okay if the style isn’t your taste—that’s cosmetic. Focus on whether the bones of the house will work for you.

3. Signs of Water Damage or Structural Issues

Keep your eyes peeled for red flags:

• Water stains on ceilings or walls

• Musty smells (which could indicate mold)

• Cracks in the foundation or drywall

• Uneven floors or doors that don’t close properly

These issues could lead to expensive repairs down the line. When in doubt, a home inspection is always a smart move.

4. Age and Condition of Major Systems

While walking through, be sure to ask about:

• The age of the roof

• The condition of the windows

• The furnace, air conditioner, and water heater

• Electrical and plumbing systems

Replacing these can cost thousands, so it’s important to know what you’re walking into.

5. Your Future Plans

Think 3–5 years ahead. Will this home grow with you? Is there room to expand a family, set up a home office, or build equity through upgrades?

Even if it's your “starter” home, it should still be a smart investment. Look for potential—both personal and financial.

Final Thoughts

A home viewing can go by quickly, but with a sharp eye and the right mindset, you can make informed choices and avoid surprises later. And remember: bring a checklist and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Ready to start viewing homes? I’d love to help you find the one that checks all the boxes—for today and for your future.

Ready to dust off your clubs and hit the green? Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just getting into the swing of things, Peterborough County and Kawarthas are home to some incredible courses that offer stunning views, great layouts, and a challenge for every level of player. From lakeside links to championship fairways, here are 9 must-play golf courses to add to your summer list:

1. Heron Landing Golf Club (Peterborough)

Located just minutes from downtown Peterborough, Heron Landing offers a beautifully maintained course that’s beginner-friendly but still engaging for experienced golfers. With scenic surroundings and a relaxed pace of play, it’s a local favorite.

2. Six Foot Bay Golf Course (Buckhorn)

Tucked away in cottage country, Six Foot Bay offers breathtaking views of Buckhorn Lake and a peaceful setting. This course is a perfect blend of natural beauty and playability, with well-manicured fairways and challenging water features.

3. Kawartha Golf & Country Club (Peterborough)

One of the top-ranked private clubs in Ontario, Kawartha is a championship-level course designed by legendary architect Stanley Thompson. It’s known for its rolling terrain, mature trees, and challenging layout—a must-play for serious golfers.

4. Baxter Creek Golf Club (Fraserville)

A public course with a private club feel, Baxter Creek is an 18-hole gem offering great value. Expect strategic bunkering, smooth greens, and one of the best-maintained tracks in the region.

5. The Quarry Golf Club (Ennismore)

Set in the heart of the Kawarthas, The Quarry offers a mix of open fairways and forested holes, with water coming into play on several. It’s both scenic and challenging, and the staff are always welcoming.

6. Liftlock Golf Club (Peterborough)

A great option for beginners or those looking to squeeze in a quick round, Liftlock is an executive-style 18-hole course. With short but fun holes and great rates, it’s ideal for casual play.

7. Black Diamond Golf Club (Pontypool)

This course lives up to its name with a bold, dramatic design that will test your shot-making skills. It features elevation changes, deep bunkers, and fast greens—a true hidden gem for adventurous golfers.

8. Bellmere Winds Golf Resort (Keene)

Located right on Rice Lake, Bellmere Winds is both a golf course and a resort destination. Stay the weekend and enjoy lakeside views, an approachable course layout, and a vibrant summer atmosphere.

9. Pine Crest Golf & Country Club (Keene)

This family-owned course has a loyal following thanks to its friendly service and consistent conditions. Pine Crest’s wide fairways and scenic setting make it perfect for a relaxed round with friends.

From competitive layouts to casual nine-hole rounds, Peterborough and the Kawarthas are packed with golfing options that cater to every skill level and style. So grab your clubs, tag a golf buddy, and make your tee time—your next great round is just around the corner.

Across Canada, early 2025 has brought an unexpected twist in the real estate market. National home sales dropped nearly 10% in a single month. In Toronto, the pullback was even sharper — close to 30%.

But in Peterborough, the story is different.

We’re seeing steady prices, strong buyer activity, and rising inventory. And yet, despite the fundamentals improving, some buyers are still hesitating.

Let’s take a closer look at what’s really happening in our market right now.

📊 City of Peterborough — Sales Surge While Prices Stay Stable

In March, the City of Peterborough saw a significant jump in activity:

• Average Sale Price: $646,722

• Year-over-Year Change: +0.7%

• Homes Sold: 93 (up 52.5% from February)

• New Listings: 191 (up 50.4%)

• Average Days on Market: 26

• Sale-to-List Price Ratio: 99.4%

Buyers came back strong last month, likely responding to better affordability and more choices. Homes are still selling close to asking, and the average days on market dropped to under a month.

That tells us that well-priced, well-marketed homes are getting scooped up fast.

🌳 Peterborough County — A Bit More Price Flexibility

In the County, things are a little more varied. Here’s how March played out:

• Average Sale Price: $717,063

• Year-over-Year Change: -2.7%

• Homes Sold: 65 (up 38.3% from February, down 26% year-over-year)

• New Listings: 258 (up 96.9%)

• Average Days on Market: 41

• Sale-to-List Price Ratio: 96.7%

While activity picked up, pricing softened slightly in some areas — creating opportunities for savvy buyers. Several sub-districts saw significant price drops, including:

• Cavan-Monaghan: down 16.2%

• North Kawartha: down 47.8%

• Smith-Ennismore-Lakefield: down 2.5%

At the same time, some markets saw strong price growth, like Douro-Dummer (+24.8%) and Asphodel-Norwood (+10.2%).

It really depends on location, price point, and property type.

❓ What’s Causing the Caution?

With interest rates now sitting at 2.75%, and more listings on the market than we’ve seen in months, you'd think buyers would be flooding back in.

But what we’re seeing is something else: caution.

Even though the numbers are looking more favourable, buyers are hesitant. Economic uncertainty, job news, and global headlines are making some people pause — even when the window of opportunity is wide open.

This is classic buyer psychology. When uncertainty rises, many step back — even if the fundamentals are improving.

💡 A Window of Opportunity

History has shown us what happens when uncertainty clears: demand returns, often suddenly and with force.

We saw it in early 2020. When the pandemic hit, the market froze. But by the end of that year and into 2021, we saw one of the most active markets on record. The people who acted during that brief quiet period were the ones who benefited most.

Today’s market feels similar.

With less competition, more negotiable sellers, and motivated listings already hitting the market, this could be a moment where the math makes a lot of sense — especially for buyers or investors thinking long-term.

👋 Thinking of Buying or Selling?

If you're curious about what your home is worth, wondering what’s happening in your neighbourhood, or trying to time your next move — I’d be happy to have a conversation.

Whether you're ready now or just starting to plan, getting clear on your options is the best first step.

Let’s talk strategy, not just stats.

Gear up for an adrenaline-packed day as the Monster Madness Tour roars back into Kawartha Downs on Saturday, May 3, 2025. This family-friendly event promises heart-pounding excitement with two spectacular shows at 12:30 PM and 6:30 PM.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, May 3, 2025

• Showtimes: 12:30 PM and 6:30 PM

• Location: Kawartha Downs Events, 1382 County Rd 28, Fraserville, Ontario

Prepare to feel the ground shake as powerful monster trucks perform jaw-dropping stunts and gravity-defying jumps. The Monster Madness Tour is renowned for delivering high-octane entertainment that captivates audiences of all ages.

Ticket Information:

Tickets are available for purchase online. Secure your spot early to witness this electrifying event.

Additional Attractions:

Beyond the monster truck action, attendees can look forward to a variety of engaging activities suitable for the whole family. Stay tuned for more details on additional entertainment and attractions.

Plan Your Visit:

Kawartha Downs offers ample parking and a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable experience for all guests. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the world of monster trucks, the Monster Madness Tour is an event you won't want to miss.

Mark your calendars and get ready for a day of unforgettable thrills at Kawartha Downs on May 3rd!

Get your forks ready, Peterborough! One of downtown’s most mouth-watering events is back for 2025 — and it’s bigger, cheesier, and more exciting than ever. From April 1 to 26, the award-winning Mac & Cheese Festival is returning to the heart of the city, bringing comfort food fans on a delicious adventure through 17 participating restaurants.

Organized by the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA), this fourth edition of the festival is introducing some exciting new features, including a Grand Finale Celebration at Quaker Foods City Square and a Judge’s Choice Award to crown the city’s top cheesy creation.

A Month-Long Celebration of Comfort Food

The festival kicks off April 1st, and for nearly four weeks, downtown restaurants will serve up creative and crave-worthy mac & cheese specials. From homestyle classics to gourmet reimaginings, each dish is an ode to one of the world’s favourite comfort foods.

Returning to defend its cheesy crown is The Vine, winner of the 2023 festival. This year, they’re serving a fiery fan favourite: jalapeño popper mac & cheese.

“We figured why settle for just one cheesy guilty pleasure when you can have two?” says The Vine’s owner Tyrone Flowers. “It’s rich, creamy, packed with flavour, and has just the right amount of heat.”

Also on the menu? Bold twists like The Dirty Burger’s mac & cheeseburger samosa, and The Boardwalk Game Lounge’s French onion mac & cheese, dreamed up by owners Connor and Dylan Reinhart.

New for 2025: The Grand Finale Celebration

This year’s biggest addition is a festival-closing event on Saturday, April 26, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Quaker Foods City Square (Charlotte Street). Expect a full day of food, fun, and flavour with:

• Live performances by Jeanne Truax, Warren Frank, Brooklyn Doran, and VanCamp

• A beer garden on the rink pad, featuring local faves like 100 Acre Brewing Co., Sandbagger Hard Seltzer, and Maple Light

• Vendor booths, entertainment for all ages, and of course — mac & cheese galore

“The Mac & Cheese Festival is a fantastic way to showcase the culinary talent of our downtown restaurants,” says DBIA executive director Nour Mazloum. “It’s a great way to support local businesses and kick off spring with a full day of food, music, and community fun.”

Two Ways to Win

In addition to the fan-favourite People’s Choice Award — voted on by diners online starting April 1 at theboro.ca — this year also introduces the Judge’s Choice Award, where a panel of local celebrity judges will select the ultimate cheesy champ during the grand finale.

Whether you're a diehard cheese fan or just love trying new things, the Mac & Cheese Festival is your chance to explore some of Peterborough’s best eats — one bite at a time.

Mark Your Calendar: 📅 April 1–26, 2025 – Mac & Cheese dishes at 17 downtown restaurants
🎉 April 26, 2025 (11am–7pm) – Grand Finale at Quaker Foods City Square
🧀 Online Voting Opens April 1 – Cast your vote for the People’s Choice!

More info and full list of participating restaurants available at theboro.ca.

Let me know if you’d like a social media blurb to go with this or want to highlight specific restaurants!