Your Local Guide to Making the Most of the Last Month of Summer

If you’re anything like me, August always feels a little bittersweet. The patios are buzzing, the lakes are warm, festivals are everywhere, and somehow we’re already thinking about back-to-school shopping.

Whether you’re new to Peterborough, planning a visit, or lucky enough to call this community home, August is one of the best months to get out and explore everything our city and surrounding area have to offer.

Here’s what’s happening around Peterborough before summer comes to an end.

🎶 Peterborough Musicfest (Until August 19)

You simply can’t talk about summer in Peterborough without mentioning Peterborough Musicfest. It’s Canada’s longest-running free admission concert series, bringing nationally recognized artists to Del Crary Park every Wednesday and Saturday evening.

Pack a lawn chair, grab dinner downtown beforehand, and enjoy live music overlooking Little Lake.

Why I love it: It’s one of those experiences that makes Peterborough feel like a much bigger city while keeping that small-town community atmosphere.

🎻 Peterborough Folk Festival (August 13–16)

One of my favourite weekends of the summer!

The Peterborough Folk Festival takes over Nicholls Oval and downtown venues with four days of free live music, local vendors, food, family activities, and incredible community energy.

Whether you’re a music lover or simply looking for something fun to do with family or friends, this festival is always worth adding to your calendar.

🛍️ Explore Downtown Peterborough

One thing I always tell people moving here…

Don’t just drive through downtown.

Spend an afternoon walking it.

Browse locally owned shops like SOS, grab a coffee, wander George Street, stop for lunch on Hunter Street, and enjoy one of the many patios.

Every time I head downtown I discover another small business I didn’t know existed.

🚣 Visit the Canadian Canoe Museum

If you haven’t visited the new Canadian Canoe Museum yet, August is the perfect time.

After exploring the museum, head outside and paddle the Otonabee River or simply enjoy coffee overlooking the water.

It’s quickly become one of Peterborough’s must-see attractions.

🌽 Peterborough Regional Farmers’ Market

Fresh local produce.

Homemade baking.

Flowers.

Artisan products.

There’s something about a Saturday morning farmers’ market that just feels like summer.

Support local farmers and makers while picking up everything from fresh vegetables to handmade treats.

🚲 Get Outside

One of the biggest reasons people move to Peterborough is our access to nature.

Some of my favourite August activities include:

• Walking or biking the Rotary Greenway Trail
• Watching the sunset at Rogers Cove
• Exploring Jackson Park
• Visiting the Peterborough Lift Lock
• Spending the afternoon at Beavermead Park
• Renting a kayak or paddleboard

It’s hard to beat an Ontario summer when the weather is this good.

🦒 Riverview Park & Zoo

Looking for something the kids will love?

The Riverview Park & Zoo remains one of the best free family attractions in Ontario.

Pair it with a picnic lunch or finish the day with ice cream from Kawartha Dairy for a perfect summer outing.

🚗 Day Trips Around Peterborough

If you’ve got a free day, Peterborough is perfectly located for exploring the surrounding communities.

Some of my favourites include:

• Lakefield
• Buckhorn
• Bobcaygeon
• Fenelon Falls
• Campbellford
• Kawartha Lakes

Each offers waterfront shopping, unique restaurants, local markets, and beautiful scenery that makes for an easy summer road trip.

🍦 Don’t Forget the Simple Things

Sometimes the best summer memories aren’t made at big events.

Grab an ice cream.

Watch the sunset over Little Lake.

Meet friends on a patio.

Walk through Del Crary Park.

Take the scenic route home.

Those are the moments that remind me why I love living in Peterborough.

Thinking About Moving to Peterborough?

As a local Realtor and mom of two, one of my favourite parts of my job is helping people discover the lifestyle that comes with living here… not just the houses.

If you’re considering moving to Peterborough, Ontario, I’d love to help you explore the neighbourhoods, local businesses, schools, parks, and hidden gems that make this community so special.

Enjoy the rest of your summer… and I’ll see you around town!