kawarthaNOW | News, events, and community information for residents, visitors, and cottagers in Peterborough and The Kawarthas

encoreNOW for October 19, 2026 features (from left to right, top and bottom) Taylor Lovelace's "I'm Every Woman" Whitney Houston tribute at Port Hope's Capitol Theatre, the Northumberland Players' production of Kristen Da Silva's comedy "Hurry Hard" at the Best Western in Cobourg, the Peterborough Symphony Orchestra's season-opening "Strength + Sparkle" concert at Peterborough's Showplace Performance Centre, Public Energy's presentation of Sara Porter's "Bad Poetry" at Peterborough's The Theatre on King, the Peterborough Theatre Guild's production of the First World War drama "Bluebirds" at the Guild Hall in Peterborough's East City, and Roch Voisine's tribute to the legendary Gordon Lightfoot at Showplace. (kawarthaNOW collage)

encoreNOW – October 19, 2026

Featuring 'I'm Every Woman: The Whitney Houston Songbook', 'Hurry Hard', 'Strength + Sparkle', 'Bad Poetry', 'Bluebirds', and 'The Lightfoot Sessions'

Paul Rellinger - October 19, 2026

Lakelands Public Health medical officer of health Dr. Thomas Piggott says good health for schoolchildren is more than just avoiding physical illness. Mental health, social connection, physical activity, good nutrition, and healthy habits all matter. He suggests families establish regular sleep routines, reduce screen time, make healthy eating a priority, and encourage time outdoors and physical activity such as walking to school when possible. (Photo: GreenUP)

Healthy school-year routines start with small steps at home

Veronica Nelson, president and CEO of Ross Memorial Hospital in Lindsay, will be leading four community town halls in Coboconk, Pontypool, Fenelon Falls, and Lindsay in October 2026 on the topic of local cancer care and supportive services, along with updates on the hospital's master planning and major projects. (Photo: Ross Memorial Hospital)

Ross Memorial Hospital in Lindsay bringing cancer care conversations to four Kawartha Lakes communities in October

Trillium Lakelands Elementary Teacher Local president Mike De Rose (back left) with educators advocating for special education resources and supports from the Ontario government for the Trillium Lakelands District School Board, which operates 40 elementary schools in the Muskoka, Kawartha Lakes, and Haliburton regions. (Photo: Trillium Lakelands Elementary Teachers Local / Facebook)

Local solutions at stake in Ontario elementary teacher bargaining dispute, says Trillium Lakelands union local

Pictured with director Bea Quarrie, Rebecca Birrell (left), Laura Lawson, and Emily Kelly perform as Canadian military nurses Bab, Maggie, and Christy in the Peterborough Theatre Guild's production of Vern Thiessen's drama "Bluebirds," which runs for 10 performances from October 30 to November 14, 2026. The play follows the three women as they care for wounded Canadian soldiers in 1918 France, gradually developing a friendship as they strive to stay hopeful while the dangers of the front draw closer to their hospital. (Photo: Paul Rellinger / kawarthaNOW)

‘Bluebirds’ at the Peterborough Theatre Guild tells the story of three Canadian nurses in World War I France

Director Bea Quarrie and her three-member cast explore friendship, love, and sacrifice in Vern Thiessen's drama running from October 30 to November 14

Paul Rellinger - October 17, 2026

For Small Business Week 2026, the Innovation Cluster is opening its downtown Peterborough workspace to local entrepreneurs, professionals, and small business owners for a free day of coworking on Wednesday, October 21. Participants can use hot desks, high-top tables, and shared work areas, with coffee and light snacks provided, while learning more about the Innovation Cluster’s workspace and membership options. (Photo: Bryan Reid for Innovation Cluster)

Small Business Week brings workshops, networking, and celebrations to Peterborough and the Kawarthas

Peterborough mayor Jeff Leal presents a certificate of recognition of five years of family ownership from the City of Peterborough to The Venue owners April Sendel (left) and Kevin Sendel (second from right) and general manager Tiffany Daskewich (right) during a celebration at the downtown Peterborough event space on October 13, 2026. (Photo: Joshua Gillis)

The Venue in downtown Peterborough celebrates five years of family ownership

Colin McMahon has been appointed the new executive director of the Kawartha Youth Orchestra (KYO). Pictured at the KYO's home at the New Canadians Centre, McMahon has served as program manager and artistic director of Upbeat!, KYO's subsidized after-school music education program, for the past three years. (Photo: Samantha Haggstrom / KYO)

Kawartha Youth Orchestra appoints Colin McMahon as executive director

Slow Leaves, the project of award-winning Winnipeg folk and psych-rock singer-songwriter and guitarist Grant Davidson, performs at the Black Horse in downtown Peterborough on Wednesday night (October 21, 2026) with Peterborough's own Matthew Holtby opening. (Photo: Matt Horseman)

nightlifeNOW – October 15 to 21

Featuring live music listings at pubs and restaurants in Peterborough and the greater Kawarthas region

kawarthaNOW - October 15, 2026

One of the region's largest suppliers and processors of steel, aluminum, brass, and plastic materials, Kawartha Metals Corp. in Peterborough is receiving $500,000 from the federal government toward a $1-million project to expand its advanced steel-processing capabilities through specialized equipment. The company is one of 10 in Eastern Ontario receiving a total of nearly $6.6 million from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) to modernize operations, strengthen competitiveness, and expand products and services. (Photo: Kawartha Metals Corp.)

Five businesses in the Kawarthas region receive more than $2.5 million in federal funding

Part of the "Where Change Takes Root" photo exhibit on display at the Peterborough Public Library in downtown Peterborough until October 31, 2026. Presented by Inter Pares in collaboration with the Kawartha World Issues Centre (KWIC), the exhibit shares how women in communities in Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, and Togo are finding ways to grow food, sustain livelihoods and care for the land in the face of a changing climate. (Photo: Inter Pares / Facebook)

West African women’s stories bring global climate challenges into focus at Peterborough Public Library

October is Walktober - a month to highlight the benefits of walking - as well as the month in which municipal elections are happening. Ensuring safe conditions support active transportation around schools, hospitals, recreation centres, and retirement homes are often the responsibilities of the local government. (Photo: Pete Rellinger)

This Walktober, consider how your municipal vote shapes the streets you walk

Ross Memorial Hospital in Lindsay bringing cancer care conversations to four Kawartha Lakes communities in October

Bethan Bates, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter - October 18, 2026

Led by hospital president and CEO Veronica Nelson, free town halls will explain local services and regional partnerships, with updates on hospital planning and major projects,

Local solutions at stake in Ontario elementary teacher bargaining dispute, says Trillium Lakelands union local

October 17, 2026

Kawartha Youth Orchestra appoints Colin McMahon as executive director

October 15, 2026

West African women’s stories bring global climate challenges into focus at Peterborough Public Library

October 15, 2026

Joslynn Burford performing at the Elizabeth Fry Society of Peterborough's 2025 "Rebel with a Cause" annual fundraising event honouring individuals who have shown advocacy and action in the community. Burford will return to perform at the 2026 event on Wednesday, October 28 at the McDonnel Street Community Centre, which will honour Dan Hughes, Jordanne McLaren, Chrysalis Outreach Midwives, and Wild Rock Outfitters. (Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Fry Society of Peterborough)

Elizabeth Fry Society of Peterborough to honour four ‘Rebels with a Cause’ during October 28 fundraiser

October 14, 2026

The Venue in downtown Peterborough celebrates five years of family ownership

kawarthaNOW - October 16, 2026

Local event and catering professionals Kevin and April Sendel purchased the event space in 2021 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic

This week's edition of kawarthaNOW's "Kawartha Localist" editorial series features 10 must-try sandwiches across the greater Kawarthas region as selected by our readers, including at The Grape and Wedge in Apsley, Muster Point in Bobcaygeon, Mindful Crowe Lunchbox in Marmora, Milk and Honey Eatery in Lindsay, Tobi's Grab and Go Sandwiches in Bancroft, the Cardiff Country Store, Corner Bites Eatery in Lindsay, Sam's Place in Peterborough, The Counter on King in Colborne, and Wattle & Daub in Bancroft. (kawarthaNOW collage)

Kawartha Localist: Sink your teeth into 10 standout sandwiches across the greater Kawarthas

October 13, 2026

This edition of kawarthaNOW's "Kawartha Localist" editorial series features 14 family-friendly activities and destinations across the greater Kawarthas region for the Thanksgiving long weekend, including the Fenelon Falls Turkey Trot and the Northumberland Turkey Trot, Duff Acres in Keene, the Buckhorn Harvest Craft Show, Back Forty Farmstead near Bancroft, the Norwood Fall Fair, Harvest Market in Stirling and other local farmers' markets, Bobcaygeon Brewing Company and Kawartha Dairy, Sir Sam's in Haliburton County, Robin's Nest Farm Market in Warkworth, Ganaraska River in Northumberland County, Leahy's Farm and Market in Douro-Dummer, Frosted Flour Co. in Port Hope, and more. (kawarthaNOW collage)

Kawartha Localist: 14 things to do with your family on Thanksgiving weekend across the greater Kawarthas

October 6, 2026

Peterborough County Tourism has designed four traveller personas that highlight different ways to experience The Kawarthas based on what you enjoy, what inspires you, and how you like to spend your time while you're visiting this region. The Fox is an adrenaline-seeking traveller who craves new adventures and challenges, especially in nature, and also relishes learning about the places and people around them during their travels. (Graphic: Peterborough County Tourism)

Travel like A Fox in The Kawarthas

October 3, 2026

This edition of kawarthaNOW's "Kawartha Localist" editorial series features 15 destinations for scenic trails in the greater Kawarthas region, including the Northumberland County Forest, Balsam Lake Provincial Park, Eagle's Nest Park, Peter's Woods Provincial Park, Doube's Trestle Bridge, Jackson Creek Trail, Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park, Stony Lake Trails, McGeachie Conservation Area, Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park, James Cooper Lookout Trail, Ken Reid Conservation Area, Robert Johnston EcoForest Trails, Dahl Forest, and Trent University's Wildlife Sanctuary Nature Area. (kawarthaNOW collage)

Kawartha Localist: 15 scenic trails in the greater Kawarthas to view the fall colours at their peak

September 29, 2026

encoreNOW – October 19, 2026

Paul Rellinger - October 19, 2026

Featuring 'I'm Every Woman: The Whitney Houston Songbook', 'Hurry Hard', 'Strength + Sparkle', 'Bad Poetry', 'Bluebirds', and 'The Lightfoot Sessions'.

‘Bluebirds’ at the Peterborough Theatre Guild tells the story of three Canadian nurses in World War I France

October 17, 2026

nightlifeNOW – October 15 to 21

October 15, 2026

The Capitol Theatre in Port Hope has revealed 11 shows in its 2027 season, including 10 Canadian productions, two world premieres, and the revival of a made-in-Port Hope hit show. (Photo: kawarthaNOW collage of Capitol Theatre graphics)

Port Hope’s Capitol Theatre announces 11 shows for its 2027 season, including a revival of 2025’s hit homegrown musical ‘Rez Gas’

October 8, 2026

Calgary singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Rae Spoon, who recently released their 13th solo album "Assigned Country Singer at Birth", performs at Sadleir House in downtown Peterborough on Saturday night along with Peterborough's own Evangeline Gentle (now living in Hamilton) and their band. (Photo: Wynne Neilly)

nightlifeNOW – October 8 to 14

October 8, 2026

Small Business Week brings workshops, networking, and celebrations to Peterborough and the Kawarthas

kawarthaNOW - October 16, 2026

Events from October 19 to 25 offer entrepreneurs opportunities to learn about AI, succession planning, marketing, finances, and business growth.

Five businesses in the Kawarthas region receive more than $2.5 million in federal funding

October 15, 2026

Jeff Menzies and Bill Harris of Kawartha Ethanol with Michael Skinner and Jamie Mason of Miranda Water Technologies at Kawartha Ethanol's Havelock facility during an industrial wastewater treatment pilot using Miranda's MC200 Miracell Rotating Biological Contactor (RBC) system, which removed more than 98 per cent of targeted contaminants under tested operating conditions. (Photo courtesy of Miranda Water Technologies)

Kawartha Ethanol in Havelock to buy Miranda Water Technologies system after successful wastewater pilot

October 13, 2026

businessNOW: Giving thanks for new beginnings, lasting milestones, and a community that keeps growing

October 12, 2026

"Climate action is good for business." Peterborough and Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Brenda Whitehead (middle) with Peterborough County economic development manager Rhonda Keenan (left) and Jigsaw Organizing Solutions founder and Women's Business Network of Peterborough treasurer Adeilah Dahlke (right) celebrating sustainable leaders in the community at an event hosted by Green Economy Peterborough in June 2026. (Photo: Heather Doughty)

A healthy environment is the foundation of a thriving economy in Peterborough and the Kawarthas

October 1, 2026

Healthy school-year routines start with small steps at home

Dr. Thomas Piggott - October 19, 2026

Lakelands Public Health's medical officer of health highlights sleep, screen limits, nutritious food, and outdoor activity as families navigate stress and financial pressures.

This Walktober, consider how your municipal vote shapes the streets you walk

October 15, 2026

A recently completed garage project built through Merrett Home Hardware Building Centre's Beaver Homes & Cottages program. The program offers more than 500 pre-designed garages and carriage homes, which can be altered to fit each customer's lifestyle and preferences. In addition to providing premium-grade materials for the build, the program includes support from a local consultant to finalize designs, navigate permits, and find a local contractor. (Photo courtesy of Merrett Home Hardware Building Centre)

Merrett Home Hardware Building Centre helps bring your dream garage to life

October 11, 2026

Heat pumps are installed and maintained by Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) businesses like 123 HVAC, based in Selwyn Township and serving the broader Peterborough and Kawartha Lakes region. Owner Cory Rawn (left), pictured with business partner Mike Baker, dispels some common myths about heat pumps in advance of GreenUP's inaugural Heat Pump Week from October 13 to 16, 2026. (Photo courtesy of 123 HVAC)

Too noisy, too costly, too cold? A local HVAC contractor addresses common myths about heat pumps

October 8, 2026

Hannah Bailey, an early childhood educator who works as Quality Inclusion Coach at Five Counties Children's Centre, with her son Max and husband Tom. During the free "Listen With Love" concerts on October 20 and 21, 2026 at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre in downtown Peterborough, Hannah will share in story and song her own family's inclusion journey, shaped by Max, who was born with a rare genetic condition. (Photo courtesy of Five Counties Children's Centre)

‘Listen with Love’ concerts on October 20 and 21 bring a family’s journey of inclusion to the Market Hall stage

October 7, 2026

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