The United Way Peterborough & District's incoming campaign chair Tiffany Arcari with the non-profit organization's newly appointed CEO Jason Seguya during an announcement of her appointment at the United Way's office on July 15, 2026. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW)
Infectious high energy is what the United Way Peterborough & District wanted and, with the naming of Tiffany Arcari as chair of its 2026-27 campaign, infectious high energy is just what the United Way Peterborough & District got.
On Wednesday (June 15) at the United Way office on Stewart Street, Arcari was introduced as the volunteer leader of the annual appeal that, while underway now, will begin officially via the campaign kick-off lunch in September.
In naming Arcari the campaign chair, the United Way has chosen a spark plug who, on the social media battlefield, has proven nothing short of a relentless warrior.
Advertisement - content continues below
A Hamilton native who, upon graduation from Fleming College, decided to make Peterborough her home, Arcari is community manager at Gauvreau Accounting Tax Law Advisory where she has led a number of community initiatives.
That said, it’s her ongoing work as producer and host of The Tiffany Show that has brought her wider acclaim as a community builder who lifts up others in a bid to help them reach their full potential. Aired on Cogeco’s YourTV, YouTube, and other digital platforms, the show shines a light on local community builders and shares their inspiring stories.
From that has sprung Arcari’s popular annual International Women’s Day Party, which was held for a third time this past March at The Venue in downtown Peterborough. The free admission event saw a standing-room-only crowd celebrate women’s achievements via connection and the sharing of heartfelt moments.
At Wednesday’s announcement, Arcari said the role of United Way campaign chair is, to her mind, an extension of the energy she brings to conversations, and her deep-rooted passion for supporting local people, businesses and organizations.
“With The Tiffany Show, with my work at Gauvreau, the work that the United Way does — and being campaign chair — fits my mission, my vision, and my values,” she said, adding “When something aligns so beautifully like that, you’ve got to do it. You’ve got to take action.”
“When (the United Way) asked me (to be campaign chair), I was like ‘Are you sure about that?’ But I was immediately honoured and excited because I know the United Way has been in our community making changes for so many years. I knew that I wanted to step in and I wanted to help and, honestly, that just kind of fuelled the fire in my belly that always gets me to take action and do something.”
The United Way Peterborough & District’s incoming campaign chair Tiffany Arcari speaks during an announcement of her appointment at the United Way’s office on July 15, 2026. (Photo: Jeannine Taylor / kawarthaNOW)
Earlier, following newly appointed United Way CEO Jason Seguya’s introduction of Arcari — he credited her as someone who “creates conversations that spotlight resilience, elevates local voices, and builds community through powerful storytelling” — she termed the local United Way “a certified neighbour,” adding “For 85 years, the United Way has shown us what happens when neighbours help neighbours.”
“This community has always been strongest when people choose to look out for each other,” Arcari said. “I’m inviting all of you to be a part of that story.”
“It’s about taking action. It’s about seeing a need and showing up to help. A neighbour notices, a neighbour cares, and a neighbour says ‘How can I help?’ My hope is this campaign carries the movement of certified neighbours — people who choose kindness, people who look out for and take care of each other, people who choose to show up.”
A particularly poignant came when Arcari reflected on when she arrived in Peterborough “with nothing and nobody.”
“It’s not easy when you don’t have a family support system and a network, and you’re starting out from scratch, and you’re young, and you’re figuring it out, and you’ve got a fire in your belly.”
“At one point, we had to choose between getting winter tires or eating for the month. I’ll never forget that moment of weighing what we were going to do; where we were going to get the money. I leaned in to the United Way and their partners for help, so I know what it’s like to have community rally, and wrap itself around you, and give you a helping hand so you can get up and you can move on with the goals and the dreams that you have. I will forever be grateful for that support.”
Advertisement - content continues below
For his part, Seguya told kawarthaNOW that Arcari’s energy, while a factor in the decision to ask her to be campaign chair, wasn’t the only reason.
“Tiffany brings in conversations and collaborations. She’s a true convener of people. One thing that’s going to be so important in this campaign is the collective efforts of many. What Tiffany brings is a combination of both sophistication in people planning and capacity, but also an element of bringing out the best where you want to perform.”
“With Tiffany at the helm of this campaign, I’m confident that many others will demonstrate skillsets that really respond to the needs of the campaign in the long run.”
Editor’s note: Paul Rellinger was chair of the United Way Peterborough & District’s 2025-26 campaign.
During the United Way’s 2025-26 campaign, Arcari’s involvement saw her consistently share United Way messages on her heavily followed social media platforms as well as serve as an ambassador and judge for the United Way Ultimate Burger Battle held in November.
In addition, she hosted a donation drive at her International Women’s Day event for the United Way’s Period Promise initiative — a partnership that saw close to 10,000 feminine hygiene products collected in one day.
Advertisement - content continues below
With a goal of $1.6 million, last year’s campaign saw $1.56 million brought in for the continued vital work of the United Way’s 20 partner agencies.
Asked what the goal is for the coming campaign — a number that is always revealed at the September campaign launch — Arcari paused, before saying “You almost tricked me. I do know the goal. It’s a doozy. You’re going to have to stay tuned.”
“Two weeks ago, I sent the United Way team a list of about 50 different ideas of things we could do. I think whatever we do, A, we do it together and, B, I want to make sure it is low-hanging fruit for the (United Way) staff but big impact for the community.”
“They (staff) are already spread thin. Coming in as campaign chair, you can’t be blowing all that up. We’ve got to be very cognizant of their time and their capacity. That’s why we have a campaign cabinet. That’s why we have a board of directors. There are lots of people we can tap — many hands make light work.”
Recognized last year with a Luminary Award as Emerging Entrepreneur from the Peterborough and Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, Arcari is no stranger to volunteer work, having sat on boards for the Women’s Business Network of Peterborough and the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA). Via her position with Gauvreau, she has also championed the firm’s annual school supplies and backpack drive.
“Reciprocity breeds reciprocity, kindness breeds kindness, and vulnerability fosters connection,” said Arcari. “it was a really dark time when I was young. You don’t have money, you don’t know where the rent’s coming from, you’re not sure how you’re going to feed yourselves next.”
“I’ll never forget that woman on the other side of the food bank counter that cashed me out. Those things stick with you, right? They helped me, so I need to pay it back. I spent most of my life kind of not feeling like I belonged until I came to Peterborough and built what I have built here, and plugged into this community. It’s really easy for me to follow that path because I care so much. I want to give back because I was helped when I was down.”
“I’m ready. I finished my term with the DBIA board of directors, so that has freed up some of my capacity. Having Bob Gauvreau make this campaign chair role fit into my community management role at Gauvreau really gives me time, space, and energy to be able to do this.”
Advertisement - content continues below
Moving forward, Seguya says work preparing for the new campaign will continue through the summer months, noting “The best way to do so is by being pragmatic, which comes from the data (from ongoing analysis of the past campaign).”
And the new campaign goal is?
“There’s no point in asking that,” Seguya said, smiling. “You’ll get the same answer (as Arcari’s).”
For more information about United Way Peterborough & District’s 2026-27 campaign and how to become involved, visit uwpeterborough.ca or call 705-742-8839.
The original version of this story has been replaced with full coverage by Paul Rellinger.
Selwyn Township's fire chief Gord Jopling (left) is retiring on August 31, 2026. Deputy fire chief Howard Jinkerson (right) will take over the role on August 4, with the two men working together until the end of August to provide continuity for firefighters, municipal staff, and the community. (Photos supplied by Selwyn Township)
After serving the Township of Selwyn for 38 years, fire chief Gord Jopling will retire at the end of August.
The township announced on Wednesday (July 15) that deputy fire chief Howard Jinkerson has been appointed as Jopling’s successor following a recruitment process.
Jinkerson will assume his new role on August 4, while Jopling’s retirement takes effect on August 31. The two will work together during the intervening transition period to provide continuity for firefighters, municipal staff, and the community.
Advertisement - content continues below
Jopling began his career with the Selwyn Fire Department in 1988 as a volunteer firefighter and was appointed fire chief 10 years later.
During his 28 years as chief, Jopling oversaw the department’s emergency response, fire prevention, and public education services while mentoring future firefighters and fostering what the township describes as a culture of teamwork, professionalism, and community service.
“Although I have only had the opportunity to work alongside Chief Jopling for a short time, it is clear why he is so highly respected throughout the organization and the community,” said Selwyn Township chief administrative officer Jennifer Moore, who began in her role on June 1, in a media release.
“His dedication to public safety, commitment to the department, and leadership over many years have created a strong legacy for the Selwyn Fire Department. I would like to thank Gord for his outstanding service to the township and wish him all the best in retirement.”
Advertisement - content continues below
As for Jinkerson, he brings more than 22 years of fire service experience to the chief position, including knowledge of fire operations, emergency management, and fire prevention.
He has also supported several departmental initiatives including equipment purchases, firefighter training, and regulatory compliance and certification.
“I am honoured to have the opportunity to serve as fire chief for the Township of Selwyn,” Jinkerson said.
“I would like to thank fire chief Gord Jopling for his years of dedication to the department and the community, and I appreciate the confidence placed in me by the township. I am excited to continue working alongside such an amazing group of firefighters and supporting the important work they do every day.”
Five-time Juno-winning artist Aysanabee and Juno-nominated rocker Terra Lightfoot will be joining headliners Bahamas, Begonia, Shad, and Kazdoura at the 37th annual Peterborough Folk Festival, which takes place from August 13 to 16, 2026. (Photos: Jen Squires and Janine V. Photography)
The Peterborough Folk Festival has announced the final wave of musicians who will be performing at the 37th annual festival, which takes place from August 13 to 16 in downtown venues and across four stages at Nicholls Oval Park.
On Wednesday (July 15), festival organizers revealed that five-time Juno-winning artist Aysanabee and Juno-nominated rocker Terra Lightfoot will be joining previously announced headliners Bahamas, Begonia, Shad, and Kazdoura, with newly announced local musicians including //NEWBERRY//, Songs of Scratch Garden, Joanna Bronson, Glen Caradus, and Hunt the Hare.
Organizers also announced that the festival’s kick-off ticketed concert on Thursday, August 13 at the Market Hall Performing Arts Centre in downtown Peterborough will be headlined by acclaimed songwriter Ken Yates with opener Tristan Konkle, a Peterborough-based songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who was announced as the festival’s 2026 emerging artist earlier this year.
The kick-off concert will be followed on Friday, August 14 with pop-up performances in downtown Peterborough, with the free festival weekend taking place at Nicholls Oval Park.
Advertisement - content continues below
This year’s lineup spans a wide variety of genres, including folk, hip-hop, indie rock, country, blues, bluegrass, pop, Arabic funk, and music for kids.
Previously announced musical acts include visiting performers The Pairs, Kelly McMichael, The Young Novelists, Field Guide, Dean Johnson, The Lucky Ones, The Naysayers, The Free Label, Slow Leaves, Moondoggy, The Friendly Frog Freak Show, Tennyson King, Georgia Harmer, Lauren Dillen, and Burs, along with local performers The Watched Pots, Melissa Payne, The Weber Brothers, The Kents, Cale Crowe, and Ollie Mae.
“Folk festivals are about discovery,” says the festival’s artistic director Ryan Kemp in a media release. “You may not know every artist’s name on the lineup today, but I can guarantee you’ll leave the festival having discovered a new favourite. That’s part of the magic.”
The full lineup for the 37th annual Peterborough Folk Festival, which takes place from August 13 to 16, 2026. (Artwork: Kathryn Durst)
Festivalgoers will enjoy performances and programming across four unique stages at Nicholls Oval Park during the free festival weekend.
The Miskin Law Main Stage has undergone a major upgrade and will be the festival’s largest stage, enhancing both the audience experience and artist performances.
The Rotary Stage will spotlight a mix of local and national artists, including The Friendly Frogs Freak Show, Joanna Bronson, The Kents, Moondoggy, and more. The Rotary Club of Peterborough-Kawartha will draw the grand prize winner of their Pay It Forward Lottery from this stage.
The Generation Solar Stage, powered by renewable energy, will offer intimate songwriter performances beneath the trees, creating a unique listening experience for audiences.
The new TD Stage will host collaborative artist workshops, interactive programming, and special performances, including a workshop where Terra Lightfoot and Melissa Payne will perform and interpret each other’s songs.
Advertisement - content continues below
Along with an artisan village, the weekend will feature the popular children’s village with free daily programming from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. including crafts, workshops, story time, face painting, a daily children’s parade that will be followed by a Round Dance led by Kelli Marshall, and family-friendly entertainment including the return of last year’s hit Songs of Scratch Garden and Glen Caradus.
Additional activities include beadwork workshops, interactive dance sessions, story time with the Peterborough Public Library, and Indigenous-inspired arts programming, including an interactive art installation by Indigenous visual artist Ash Street.
“We invite everyone to experience what a great music festival is all about,” says festival chair Rob Davis. “Bring a blanket and relax on the natural amphitheatre hillside. Stroll through the artisan village. Experience diverse food offerings. Set up a lawn chair beneath the trees of Nicholls Oval Park. Meet up with friends. Peterborough Folk Festival is for everyone. We can’t wait to welcome you all for another incredible weekend of music and connection.”
Audience members enjoy a free performance at the 2025 Peterborough Folk Festival in Nicholls Oval Park. (Photo: Michael Hurcomb)
Canada’s longest-running free admission folk festival, attracting over 16,000 locals and visitors every year and generating an estimated $1.5 million in economic impact, the Peterborough Folk Festival is a registered charity run entirely by volunteers and supported through government grants, sponsors, partners including kawarthaNOW, and community members, with all funds going towards running the festival, including paying artist fees and covering operational costs.
Although the festival weekend is free, a suggested donation of $25 per person will help to offset a portion of the costs and is eligible for a tax receipt.
Organizers are also currently recruiting volunteers for the festival weekend, with opportunities available for community members of all ages, including students who can earn community involvement hours while participating in one of the region’s top cultural events.
To donate online, volunteer for the festival, and purchase tickets for the kick-off concert at Market Hall, visit www.peterboroughfolkfest.com.
Advertisement - content continues below
Festival schedule highlights
Thursday, August 13 – Market Hall
Ken Yates
Tristan Konkle
Friday, August 14
Downtown Pop-Up Performances
Saturday, August 15
SHAD
Aysanabee
Begonia
Georgia Harmer
Dean Johnson
The Free Label
Field Guide
Slow Leaves
Moondoggy
The Friendly Frog Freak Show
The Kents
The Watched Pots
BURS
Songs of Scratch Garden
Advertisement - content continues below
Sunday, August 16
Bahamas
Terra Lightfoot
Kazdoura
The Weber Brothers
The Young Novelists
Tennyson King
Hunt The Hare
Joanna Bronson
//NEWBERRY//
Glen Caradus and the Camp Kawartha Chorus Sing Songs of Nature
Performing throughout the weekend
Kelly McMichael
Melissa Payne
The Pairs
The Lucky Ones
Ollie Mae
Lauren Dillen
Cale Crowe
Tristan Konkle – 2026 Emerging Artist
kawarthaNOW is proud to be a sustaining partner of the Peterborough Folk Festival.
This edition of kawarthaNOW's "Kawartha Localist" editorial series features our favourite ice cream and frozen treat destinations in the Kawarthas, including Central Smith Creamery in Selwyn Township, Reclaimed Garden Co. in Burleigh Falls, Kawartha Dairy in Bobcaygeon and beyond, Canoe Co. Café in downtown Peterborough, Violet's Frozen Yogurt in Kinmount, Mercury Chocolates & Gelateria in Cobourg, and The Little Frozen Yogurt Company in Douro. (kawarthaNOW collage)
Kawartha Localist is a new editorial series from kawarthaNOW sharing trusted local recommendations, hidden gems, and favourite discoveries from people who know and love this region. It’s what we love about where we live.
Whether you’re looking to cool down during a heat wave or taking the family out for a special treat, it’s always time for ice cream — and the Kawarthas is home to some of the best ice cream in Canada!
Whether you prefer traditional ice cream, gelato, sorbet or sherbet, or frozen yogurt, there’s a parlour waiting for you in the Kawarthas. From spots on the way to the cottage or accessible by boat, to those with the most innovative flavours — including vegan and sugar-free treats — these spots will have you screaming for ice cream.
Advertisement - content continues below
Made-in-the-Kawarthas ice cream at Central Smith in Selwyn, Canada’s oldest independent dairy
Owned by the Scates family since 1978, Central Smith Creamery in Selwyn Township is Canada’s oldest independently owned dairy and produces ice cream that is only available from the creamery and at restaurants and ice cream parlours across Canada. Central Smith serves a rotating lineup of ice cream flavours, including the popular new flavours Strawberry Matcha and Milk Chocolate Caramel Rollover. (Photo courtesy of Central Smith)
Selwyn Township is home to Central Smith Creamery, which was founded in 1896 as a farmers’ co-op producing cheese and butter and, in 1952, began exclusively producing the premium ice cream we know and love today. The Scates family has owned the business since 1978, with second-generation owners Ian and Jenn now at the helm.
Beneath its iconic red roof, the creamery and seasonal outdoor parlour draws hundreds of locals and cottagers for scoops, milkshakes, frozen yogurt, banana splits, sundaes, and take-home containers every day. With a rotating selection and 36 different flavours being scooped daily — including vegan and sugar-free alternatives — there’s something for everyone.
Recently introduced flavours this summer include the all-new Strawberry Matcha (green tea matcha swirled together with strawberry ice cream) and the reimagined and relaunched Milk Chocolate Caramel Rollover (formerly Chocolate Caramel Cup, with milk chocolate ice cream with an English toffee ripple and chocolate-filled caramel cups).
Other popular flavours scooped at Central Smith include the exclusive Algonquin Canoe (French vanilla ice cream with a hint of maple, chocolate ripple, and chocolate maple canoes), Lavender Lemonade (tangy sweet lemon with ripples of lavender), and Monster Cookie (vibrant blue ice cream with heaps of Oreo and cookie dough pieces).
You can’t buy Central Smith ice cream in grocery stores! It’s only available at the creamery (you can also order various sizes of tubs online for curbside pickup) and by the scoop at restaurants and ice cream shacks across Canada through Central Smith’s distribution network.
A few of the many local places that serve Central Smith ice cream include Sullivan’s General Store in Ennismore, Mariloo’s Ice Cream Store in Buckhorn, The Water Lily & Lockside Guest Suite in Hastings, and Reclaimed Garden Co. in Burleigh Falls (see below).
Central Smith Creamery is located at 739 Lindsay Road in Selwyn. To learn more and for online orders, visit www.centralsmith.ca.
Head by car or boat to Reclaimed Garden Co. in Burleigh Falls for a scoop of Central Smith
In 2025, Reclaimed Garden Co. owner Jackie Briggs fulfilled her longtime dream of serving ice cream at the Burleigh Falls decor and gift shop, offering scoops of Central Smith ice cream as well as milkshakes and protein-based cold brew coffee. (Photo courtesy of Reclaimed Garden Co.)
With its convenient location on Highway 28 between Lovesick and Stony Lakes, the new ice cream shack at Reclaimed Garden Co. in Burleigh Falls is a pitstop both for drivers on the way to the cottage and boaters travelling along the Trent-Severn Waterway.
In 2025, owner Jackie Briggs elevated the decor and gift store with her dream of opening a seasonal ice cream shop. With 12 rotating flavours from Central Smith being scooped daily, the classic favourites are always available, as well as sugar-free ice creams and vegan and non-dairy sorbets.
This season, Briggs has given the shack a fresh paint job and expanded the daily menu to include milkshakes and Polar Joe protein-based cold brew coffee.
Reclaimed Garden Co. is located at 4791 Highway 28 right beside Burleigh Falls Inn. For more information, follow Reclaimed Garden Co. on Facebook and Instagram.
Advertisement - content continues below
Don’t miss out on the limited edition The Tragically Chip ice cream from Kawartha Dairy
For summer 2026, Kawartha Dairy in Bobcaygeon has launched a new ice cream flavour called The Tragically Chip. The limited-edition collaboration with rock band The Tragically Hip features maple whisky-flavoured ice cream with dark chocolate chunks and black cherry ripple. In addition to the Bobcaygeon facility, Kawartha Dairy ice cream can be found at its outlet locations in Bancroft, Minden, Peterborough, Cobourg, and Lindsay and restaurants and shops across the region, with popular flavours available in grocery stores. (Photo courtesy of Kawartha Dairy)
Kawartha Dairy is a brand that has become synonymous with Ontario cottage country, but did you know it all began in Bobcaygeon?
In 1937, Jack and Ila Crowe began Kawartha Dairy in a three-room building where the cold storage area was cooled with ice cut from the lake. It wasn’t until the mid-1950s when Jack learned to produce the famous and beloved ice cream that is now scooped in a wide selection of iconic flavours at parlours across Canada.
Today, Kawartha Dairy’s fresh milk and cream comes through the Dairy Farmers of Ontario, the marketing board for the largest sector of Ontario agriculture, with almost 90 per cent coming from farms located within 100 kilometres of the company’s Bobcaygeon facility.
Along with Bobcaygeon, other Kawartha Dairy outlets across the Kawarthas include Bancroft, Peterborough, Cobourg, Lindsay, and Minden, while a range of local restaurants and shops scoop Kawartha Dairy on a daily basis.
Among many others, these include Bigley’s Sweet Treats in Bobcaygeon, Steamers Café at Young’s Point’s Lockside Trading Co., the Enniskillen General Store in Peterborough, Great Outdoors Landing in Bridgenorth, Shantilly’s Place on Chandos Lake, the Silver Bean Café in Peterborough, and The Harbour Town General Store in Douro-Dummer.
This year, ice cream lovers are flocking to try The Tragically Chip. Made in collaboration with iconic rock band The Tragically Hip, the limited-edition ice cream consists of a maple whisky-flavoured ice cream packed with dark chocolatey chunks and a rich black cherry ripple.
Of course, you can also always find a wide range of popular Kawartha Dairy flavours — Moose Tracks, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Death by Chocolate, Salty Caramel Truffle, and Raspberry Lemon-Lime Sherbet are some of our faves — at local grocery stores.
To learn more, including where to buy Kawartha Dairy products, and to shop online, visit kawarthadairy.com.
Savour handcrafted gelato at Canoe Co. Café in downtown Peterborough
Located in Euphoria Wellness Spa in downtown Peterborough, Canoe Co. Café serves up authentic handcrafted gelato from Kingston’s Mio Gelato, alongside Starbucks drinks and baked goods from local bakeries. The intimate café serves 15 flavours of gelato daily, with dairy-free and vegan options available. (Photo courtesy of Canoe Co. Café)
It’s not just the facials, manicures, and massages that make Euphoria Wellness Spa a space of rest and relaxation in downtown Peterborough. Inside, you’ll also find Canoe Co. Café, a cozy café serving Starbucks beverages and Ontario-made gelato — the Italian version of ice cream that has a denser and creamier texture with a more intense flavour.
Named in homage to the building’s former home of the Peterborough Canoe Company (founded in 1892 and home to wooden canoe manufacturing until 1961), Canoe Co. Café scoops gelato from Mio Gelato, a well-known and well-loved hotspot in Kingston that handcrafts authentic Italian gelato on the premises and always has line-ups out the door.
At Canoe Co. Café about 15 flavours are on rotation at any given time, with vegan dairy-free options always available for those with dietary restrictions. Customer favourites include Cookies ‘N’ Cream, Stacciatella, as well as mango and strawberry sorbettos (the smoother and less icy Italian cousin of sorbet).
In a new addition to the café, you can deck out your gelato even more by decorating it with a selection of flavourful toppings including gummies, marshmallows, Smarties, and more.
You can also pair your sweet treat with a Starbucks drink or a baked good and enjoy the intimate space that is ideal for a business meeting or catching up with a friend. Looking to take your gelato on the go? Order it through the walk-up window located off Water Street.
Canoe Co. Café is located inside Euphoria Wellness Spa at 290 Water Street in Peterborough. To learn more, visit canoecocafe.com.
Advertisement - content continues below
Visit an Instagrammable froyo shop at Violet’s Frozen Yogurt in Kinmount
Violet’s Frozen Yogurt in Kinmount serves up Ontario-made frozen yogurt with innovative flavours and toppings as well as vegan and sugar-free cold treats. Founded by Toshia Violet Bacon in 2021, the distinctive purple shop is open six days per week throughout the summer, with a food truck attending local festivals, fairs, and other events. (Photos courtesy of Violet’s Frozen Yogurt)
In Kinmount, you’ll find an Instagram-worthy destination for finding sweet treats that fit a range of dietary restrictions and health kicks. It’ll be hard to walk past the welcoming, bright purple storefront of Violet’s Frozen Yogurt without stopping in for a treat!
After spending a few years in Toronto, Burnt River native Toshia Violet Bacon found herself returning to the quiet of Kawartha Lakes where she eventually launched the family-run froyo business with the help of her mother Brenda Lee Swinson in 2021.
After two years in operation, what began as a food truck turned into a stationary storefront open six days per week from Thursday through Tuesday throughout the summer. You’ll still find the food truck around the region, attending local festivals, fairs, and even the occasional wedding.
Each order at Violet’s Frozen Yogurt is freshly swirled using Ontario-made frozen yogurt with unique and locally sourced flavours and toppings you can’t find anywhere else. From a rose pistachio and a lemon-flavoured froyo topped with a freeze-dried lemon to a strawberry cheesecake that’s topped with real cream cheese and crushed up graham crackers, you’ll find some truly innovative tastes at Violet’s.
Bacon tells kawarthaNOW she’s always eager to hear from customers for tips and suggestions on flavours and unique combos they want to see on the menu.
Wanting to be inclusive to dietary restrictions, Violet’s also serves vegan ice cream, sorbet, and low-sugar blended fruit mix. Tea and iced or hot coffee and smoothies are also on the menu and can be enjoyed under the umbrella-donned picnic tables. Note that Violet’s Frozen Yogurt is cash only.
Violet’s Frozen Yogurt is located at 4092 Kawartha Lakes County Rd. 121 in Kinmount. For more information, follow Violet’s Frozen Yogurt on Facebook.
Enjoy homemade gelato and authentic affogato at Mercury Chocolates and Gelateria in Cobourg
Mercury Chocolates & Gelateria in Cobourg was founded by Red Seal Chef Darren Johns in 2007 and now offers handcrafted chocolates, gelato, and pasta all on site using authentic ingredients. In the year-round store, there are always six flavours of gelato available, as well as some dairy-free sorbettos. (Photos courtesy of Mercury Chocolates & Gelateria)
You don’t have to travel all the way to Italy to find authentic gelato — you can find it hand-spun at Mercury Chocolates & Gelateria in Cobourg
Red Seal Chef Darren Johns brings almost 30 years of experience in award-winning establishments across Western Canada. Though he has travelled extensively, including taking regular trips to Italy, he established Mercury Chocolates & Gelateria in 2007 to produce handcrafted chocolate, before also making gelati beginning in 2012. As a serial entrepreneur, Johns also runs Tuscany Food and Wine Tours and Soprano Pasta Co., where he handcrafts pasta to supply to several restaurants.
From the chocolates and gelati to pasta, everything at Mercury Chocolates and Gelateria is made from scratch. With about 20 unique flavours, the shop is scooping gelato year-round with six rotating flavours on offer including some dairy-free sorbetto.
Not to be missed are classic flavours include cioccolato (chocolate), stracciatella, and hazelnut, as well as authentic affogato (an Italian dessert consisting of a scoop of gelato topped with espresso).
Mercury Chocolates & Gelateria is located at 53 Albert St. in Cobourg. To learn more, visit mercurychocolates.com.
Advertisement - content continues below
Froyo at The Little Frozen Yogurt Company in Douro — with a round of mini golf coming soon
Customize your fresh swirled froyo at The Little Frozen Yogurt Company off Highway 28 in Douro by choosing from a variety of fruits including banana, strawberry, mixed berry, mango, and more and toppings including cookie crumbs and sprinkles. Other sweet treats served at the walk-up window include Kawartha Dairy ice cream, Pom Pom vegan ice cream, freezies, chips, and more. In summer 2026, the owners will be unveiling an 18-hole Canadiana-inspired mini golf course. (Photo: Skye McMurray)
Long trips to and from the cottage aren’t so bad when you can take a pitstop on Highway 28 in Douro for sweet treats — and soon a family-friendly activity as well.
Opened in 2021, The Little Frozen Yogurt Company serves summery treats out of a walk-up window in a bold blue building. Make the freshly swirled froyo your own by selecting your favourite fruity flavours. Banana, pineapple, mango, mixed berry, blueberry, peach, cherry, and raspberry always available, with a rotating selection of other fruits also available.
You can customize your fruit in any way you want, then top it up with sprinkles and cookie crumbs to your liking. With The Little Frozen Yogurt Company’s new loyalty program, there’s no such thing as too much froyo: buy 10 and get one free!
If you also enjoy your froyo in the cooler months, drop in during the fall when you can try out an innovative pumpkin spice froyo.
Prefer something else? The Little Frozen Yogurt Company additionally serves a rotating selection of Kawartha Dairy ice cream, with 14 different flavours always available, as well as plant-based and vegan ice cream from small-batch Meaford producer Pom Pom. New on the menu, the company is selling ice cream sandwiches (including a gluten-free selection) made locally by Peterborough’s Hard Winter Bakery using Kawartha Dairy ice cream.
If your sweet tooth still isn’t satisfied, the Little Frozen Yogurt Company also stocks mixed candy bags from Couture Candy, along with chips, dog treats, and drinks including non-alcoholic sparkling water from City Seltzer.
To give you even more reason to take a break from you road trip, the Little Frozen Yogurt Company will be unveiling The Little Mini Golf Co. in August. The 18-hole miniature golf course is inspired by Canada’s rivers, bridges, and local landmarks — including a Lift Lock!
The Little Frozen Yogurt Company is located at 17 Indacom Drive in Douro, at the corner of Highway 28 and County Road 4. For more information, visit thelittlefrozenyogurtcompany.ca.
Kawartha Localist is a new editorial series from kawarthaNOW celebrating the places, experiences, businesses, and communities that make our region extraordinary. Written by people who live here, work here, and have spent nearly 30 years exploring the Kawarthas and surrounding region, each edition shares trusted local recommendations, hidden gems, and favourite discoveries from across Peterborough County, the City of Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland County, Haliburton County, and Hastings Highlands.
Whether you’re looking for your next hiking trail, favourite patio, scenic drive, farmers’ market, or weekend adventure, Kawartha Localist is what we love about where we live.
The original version of this story has been corrected: the Dairy Farmers of Ontario is not a dairy-farmer owned cooperative, but the regulator and sole delegated authority for the marketing of milk in Ontario.
The evening sky above Peterborough's East City on July 14, 2026 as a result of smoke from forest fires in northwestern Ontario. (Photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW)
Three days after issuing an air quality warning for the Kawarthas region due to smoke from forest fires in Quebec, Environment Canada and the Province of Ontario have issued another air quality warning for the region for Tuesday (July 14) into Thursday, this time due to smoke from forest fires in northwestern Ontario.
The “yellow” air quality warning is in effect for Peterborough County, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland County, Haliburton County, and Hastings Highlands.
A strong jet stream is transporting dense smoke from hundreds of active forest fires in northwestern Ontario into southeastern Ontario, resulting in poor air quality, hazy skies, red sunrises and sunsets, and potential smoke odours. Hot and humid air will exacerbate the poor air quality.
Advertisement - content continues below
As smoke levels increase, health risks increase.
Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events.
You may experience mild and common symptoms such as eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough. If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance.
A projected smoke forecast by the end of the day on July 15, 2026. (Map: The Weather Network)
People more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke, including people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors, should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.
When indoors, keep windows and doors closed as much as possible. When there is an extreme heat event occurring with poor air quality, prioritize keeping cool.
Protect your indoor air from wildfire smoke. Actions can include using the highest quality air filter that your ventilation system can handle and/or a certified portable air cleaner that can filter fine particles.
Advertisement - content continues below
If you must spend time outdoors, a well-constructed, well-fitting and properly worn respirator type mask (such as a NIOSH-certified N95 or equivalent respirator) can reduce your exposure to the fine particles in the smoke. Even though exposure may be reduced, there can still be risks to health.
Check in on others who are in your care or live nearby who may be more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke.
The daughter of a future homeowner of one of the three single-family homes in Norwood being constructed by Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region (Habitat PKR) displays her artwork of the new home designed by Marshall Design Studios during a ground-breaking ceremony on July 14, 2026. (Photo: Habitat PKR)
Three local families are one step closer to having an affordable place to call home after Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region (Habitat PKR) broke ground on three new single-family homes in Norwood on Tuesday (July 14).
The detached three-bedroom homes are expected to be ready for their new owners in the winter of 2026-27.
The homes will include energy-efficient construction, universal design features, and spacious outdoor areas. They will be purchased through Habitat PKR’s affordable homeownership program, which requires no down payment and provides mortgages geared to each family’s income.
Advertisement - content continues below
The future homeowners include an intergenerational family, a single-parent family, and a young family with two children.
“A healthy community isn’t defined only by who moves in,” said Habitat PKR CEO Susan Zambonin in a media release. “It’s also defined by who has the opportunity to stay.”
“Across Peterborough, the Kawarthas, and Haliburton County, we meet families every day who are contributing to their communities, raising children, building careers, and doing everything they can to move forward. Yet for many, homeownership feels further away than ever.”
Asphodel-Norwood Township mayor Patrick Wilford, Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region (Habitat PKR) CEO Susan Zambonin, Peterborough County warden Bonnie Clark, and Joe Crowley behalf of his son David Crowley from Crowley Farms during a ground-breaking ceremony for Habitat PKR’s three single-family homes in Norwood. Crowley Farms donated the land on which the homes will be built. (Photo: Habitat PKR)
Habitat for Humanity Canada research conducted with Deloitte found 80 per cent of Habitat homeowners would not have been able to purchase a home without the organization’s affordable homeownership program.
The research also found that affordable homeownership creates opportunities that extend beyond shelter, with homeowners also showing improvements in employment, financial security, health, and overall well-being. For example, 41 per cent of Habitat homeowners pursued additional education after buying their homes.
“These homes are about more than putting up walls,” Zambonin said. “They’re about creating stability, opportunity, and ensuring young families can continue living, working, and investing in communities like Norwood.”
Advertisement - content continues below
Habitat PKR’s Norwood project is the first to receive support through Peterborough County’s new Open Door Program, which was established to accelerate the development of affordable housing in the county.
“Peterborough County is proud to partner with Habitat on this first Open Door project in Norwood,” said county warden Bonnie Clark. “Projects like this create opportunities for families to achieve homeownership while strengthening the fabric of our rural communities.”
The program provides financial incentives to eligible non-profit housing developments, including construction financing and the waiving of municipal fees.
The future homeowners of three single-family homes in Norwood being constructed by Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region (Habitat PKR) include Matthew and Abby and with their two children (pictured), an intergenerational family consisting of a grandmother, mother, and daughter, and a single-parent family. Habitat PKR’s affordable homeownership program requires no down payment and provides mortgages geared to each family’s income, with homeowners contributing 500 volunteer hours, which can include direct work on the build of their home. (Photo: Habitat PKR)
“We are incredibly grateful to Peterborough County for the Open Door Program, which has paved the way to enabling these builds, and to county staff for their generous support of this project,” said Habitat PKR operations general manager Natalie Raponi.
“Community support plays an important role in helping families achieve strength, stability, and independence through affordable homeownership.”
At Tuesday’s ground-breaking event, Peterborough County also presented Habitat PKR with a $600 donation, representing funds raised during an annual staff barbecue.
“Our staff are proud to contribute to projects like this that make a meaningful difference for local families and help create stronger, more connected communities across Peterborough County,” said county CEO Sheridan Graham. “We look forward to having a staff team roll up our sleeves and help build these homes as well.”
Advertisement - content continues below
Along with Habitat PKR and Peterborough County representatives, other attendees at the ground-breaking event included Asphodel-Norwood Township mayor Patrick Wilford, donors, volunteers, trade partners and other project supporters, and members of the community.
An architectural rendering of one of the future homes, designed by Marshall Design Studios, was displayed alongside a drawing by eight-year-old Nora, who will be moving into one of the new homes along with her mother and grandmother.
The land for the Norwood project was donated by Crowley Farms. Other project partners include Alf Curtis Home Improvements, Plumbing by Doug, R&M Smith Contracting, and Lifestyle Home Products.
Since 2002, Habitat PKR has helped more than 100 local families become homeowners. For more informatio about the Norwood project and opportunities to donate or volunteer, visit habitatpkr.ca.
As of July 14, 2026, Peterborough resident Corey Scott is the only local candidate to have registered as a school board trustee for the City of Peterborough in the municipal election. (Photo via Corey Scott / Facebook)
With the nomination period for the municipal election closing in just over a month on August 21, only one local candidate has registered to run as a school board trustee in the City of Peterborough — a stark contrast to the 29 candidates who have registered so far to run for mayor or councillor.
Public and separate English and French school boards in Ontario are governed by a board of trustees consisting of members elected by residents in the municipalities the school board serves. Each board also includes two student trustees.
While City of Peterborough residents can vote for six trustees across four school boards, only one local candidate has registered as of July 14 as a English public school board trustee.
Advertisement - content continues below
In the Kawarthas region, the English public school boards are the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board (KPRDSB) and Trillium Lakelands District School Board (TLDSB), the English separate school board is Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board (PVNCCDSB), the French public school board is Conseil Scolaire Viamonde (CSV), and the French separate school board is Conseil Scolaire Catholique MonAvenir (CSCMA).
KPRDSB consists of 10 elected trustees, including three from the municipality of Clarington, two from the City of Peterborough, two from Peterborough County, and three from Northumberland County, as well as one trustee appointed by Alderville First Nation, Curve Lake First Nation, and Hiawatha First Nation.
TLDSB consists of nine trustees, including one from Bracebridge, one from the Huntsville area, one from the Gravenhurst area, five from Kawartha Lakes, and one from Haliburton County.
PVNCCDSB consists of seven trustees, including two from Clarington, two from the City of Peterborough, one from Peterborough County, one from Kawartha Lakes, and one from Northumberland County.
Both CSV and CSCMA have 12 trustees, with each having one trustee who represents the Kawarthas region.
Advertisement - content continues below
The current school board trustees representing the City of Peterborough are Rose Kitney and Steve Russell on KPRDSB, Mike Ayotte and Loretta Durst on PVNCCDSB, Kristine Dandavino on CSV, and Marcellin Kwilumondo on CSCMA. Dandavino and Kwilumondo, who are both based in Oshawa, are running for another term.
Corey Scott has since withdrawn his nomination.
As of July 14, the only registered school board trustee candidate in the City of Peterborough is Corey Scott for KPRDSB.
The situation is slightly better in the City of Kawarthas Lakes. For TLDSB, incumbent Tim McAlpine is registered for Wards 2 and 3, incumbent Colleen Wilcox is registered for Ward 7, and Ashley Ferreira is registered for Wards 6 and 8. No candidates are registered for TLDSB Ward 1 and 4 or for TLDSB Ward 5.
For PVNCCDSB, only Mary Winn has registered as a candidate.
Advertisement - content continues below
School boards receive their power and direction from Ontario’s Education Act and are accountable to the provincial government. A primary responsibility of trustees is to advocate for public education in the community and with the province.
The Ontario Education Services Corporation (OESC) describes the role of trustees to collectively set the vision for the school board, develop policies, allocate resources, and set the goals for programs and operations. Some other core responsibilities of trustees include approving the annual budget, overseeing the implementation of Ministry of Education policies, and representing and advocating for their constituents.
School boards receive the vast majority of their funding via the Core Education Funding model administered by the province. Each board is provided a funding package based on the average daily enrolment of students of the board.
Funding is provided for activities associated with the core education funding pillars, including classroom staffing, learning resources, special education, school facilities, student transport, and school board administration.
Since the creation of public school boards in 1816, trustees have been an elected position. Today, school boards may also appoint trustees to represent marginalized communities.
The election process is designed to enable trustees to be able to effectively meet their responsibilities to advocate for the community’s public education and to liaise between the community, schools, and the province.
Advertisement - content continues below
Recent changes made by the provincial government could be dissuading some people from running as school board trustees.
Last August, education minister Paul Calandra said he would consider eliminating trustees from boards and the election ballot if it allowed the province to “deliver the product better.”
This came shortly after Calandra introduced Bill 33, which gave the minister the authority to replace a board with an appointed supervisor in cases of “public interest,” such as financial mismanagement and divisive student issues.
MPP Chandra Pasma, who is the education critic for the official opposition, has criticized Bill 33 as an attempt to “take over” the public school system.
To date, eight school boards have been placed under provincial supervision: the Toronto District School Board, Toronto Catholic District School Board, Ottawa-Carleton District School Board, Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board, Thames Valley District School Board, Near North District School Board, Peel District School Board, and York Catholic District School Board.
Calandra’s subsequent Bill 101, Putting Student Achievement First Act (2026), which passed the legislature in May, places further restrictions on trustee’s powers but did not include the elimination of school board trustees.
An aerial view of paddlers packed into the two tubs of the Peterborough Lift Lock for the seventh annual Lock & Paddle event on July 19, 2025. (Photo: Parks Canada)
On Thursday (July 16), Parks Canada announced that the eight annual Lock & Paddle event has been cancelled and will not be rescheduled.
“The decision has been made out of an abundance of caution due to forecasted weather conditions and concerns about air quality, with the health and safety of participants, volunteers and staff remaining our highest priority,” reads a media release. “As this event is dependent on the availability of the Peterborough Lift Lock and operational requirements during the navigation season, Lock & Paddle will not be rescheduled this year.”
“We recognize that many paddlers and community members were looking forward to this unique event, and we appreciate your understanding. Thank you to everyone who planned to join us, as well as our event partners and volunteers, for their continued support.”
In a separate media release, the City of Peterborough announced that the beach party set to take place at Beavermead Park concurrently with Lock & Paddle has also been cancelled and will not be rescheduled.
Original story:
Parks Canada’s eighth annual Lock & Paddle returns to the Peterborough Lift Lock on Saturday (July 18) from noon to 4 p.m.
More than 1,400 people took part in last year’s event, paddling 978 canoes and kayaks into the two tubs at the world’s tallest hydraulic lift lock to be lifted 65 feet (20 metres) into the air and then back down.
As with the previous two Lock & Paddle events, registration is not required. Simply show up with your canoe or kayak (stand up paddleboards and inflatable kayaks and canoes or other inflatable vessels are not permitted for safety reasons), which you can decorate if you wish. Parks Canada will have staff on site throughout the event to answer any questions.
Advertisement - content continues below
All ages and skill levels are welcome to participate in the event. To participate, all paddlers and passengers must wear a PFD. Pets are not permitted on watercraft for safety reasons. This is a smoke-free, cannabis-free, and alcohol-free event. Visitors who do not follow the rules and requirements will not be permitted to enter the tubs.
All participating paddlers should have a sound signalling device, a buoyant heaving line, and a bailer for each boat, along with a watertight flashlight, sunscreen and a hat, and a water bottle. This is a rain or shine event, so also bring an umbrella or raincoat if rain is in the forecast.
Grounds open at the Peterborough Lift Lock at noon, featuring opening remarks. Local musician Joanna Bronson will be performing on the Le Boat Stage throughout the afternoon, courtesy of Peterborough Musicfest.
Paddlers will enter from the bottom of the Peterborough Lift Lock, with Parks Canada staff continually moving paddlers up and down the lock from noon to 4 p.m. Wait times can vary once you’re in the lock. While a regular boat transfer normally takes several minutes, the process of loading hundreds of canoes and kayaks into the tubs during the event can take over an hour as Parks Canada staff ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Note that there is no through-paddling once paddlers reach the top of the Peterborough Lift Lock.
Some of the 1,400 paddlers in 978 canoes and kayaks who took part in the seventh annual Lock & Paddle event at the Peterborough Lift Lock on July 19, 2025. (Photo: Sean Bruce)
Beavermead Beach Party
New this year, Peterborough Tourism is hosting a beach party at Beavermead Park running concurrently with Lock & Paddle from noon to 4 p.m.
The free drop-in event will feature live entertainment, family-friendly activities including beach volleyball and parachute activities led by City of Peterborough recreation staff, and local vendors including Camp Kawartha, Boating Ontario, Bewdley Lions’ Club, Boardwalk Board Game Lounge, Water Lily Naturals, Full Tilt Cycle, Flavour Fashion, TJs Candies and Baskets, Play It Forward Youth, and Madd Tea Party Boutique.
Free souvenir Lock & Paddle stickers will be available while quantities last.
The beach party will take place rain or shine, but may be cancelled in the event of severe weather.
Advertisement - content continues below
Parking
Note that parking is not available at either the Peterborough Lift Lock or the Peterborough Visitor Centre (formerly the Peterborough Lift Lock Visitor Centre) except for vehicles with accessible parking permits.
A paddlecraft drop-off option is available at the Peterborough Visitor Centre for beginner paddlers only, and paddlecraft must be transported to the water from the parking lot.
Nearby parking options include the Trent-Severn Waterway Headquarters at 2155 Ashburnham Drive, Eastgate Memorial Park at 2150 Ashburnham Drive, Beavermead Park at 2011 Ashburnham Drive, Rogers Cove at 131 Maria Street, and Peterborough Museum & Archives at 300 Hunter Street East.
Advertisement - content continues below
Paddling to the Peterborough Lift Lock
Here are put-in locations if you plan to paddle to the Peterborough Lift Lock. Note that if you are going through Lock 20 – Ashburnhnam, you need to allow an extra 45 to 60 minutes to transfer and paddle to the Peterborough Lift Lock. There are no lockage fees for Lock & Paddle participants.
Beavermead Campground (2011 Ashburnham Dr.) – 5-minute paddle to Lock 20, 45-60 minutes to transfer and paddle to Peterborough Lift Lock. Free parking. Note that the boat launch at Beavermead Park is temporarily closed. Paddlers can put-in at Beavermead beach outside of the designated swimming area; City of Peterborough staff will be available to direct participants to the proper location to put-in or launch their vessel.
Rogers Cove (131 Maria St.) – 5-minute paddle to Lock 20, 45-60 minutes to transfer and paddle to Peterborough Lift Lock. Free parking.
Millennium Park (130 King St.) – 20-minute paddle to Lock 20, 45-60 minutes to transfer and paddle to Peterborough Lift Lock. Nearby paid parking.
Del Crary Park (100 George St.) – 35-minute paddle to Lock 20, 45-60 minutes to transfer and paddle to Peterborough Lift Lock. Nearby paid parking
Eastgate Memorial Park (2150 Ashburnham Dr.) – 250-metre portage to paddle-access dock north of Lock 20 – Ashburnham; 20-minute paddle to Peterborough Lift Lock. Free parking.
Trent-Severn Waterway Headquarters (2155 Ashburnham Dr.) – 250-metre portage to launch at the top and west side of Lock 20 – Ashburnham; 20-minute paddle to Peterborough Lift Lock. Free parking.
Peterborough Visitor Centre at the Lift Lock (353 Hunter St. E.) – Reserved for accessibility needs and beginner paddlers. Drop-off only; no parking except for vehicles with accessible parking permits.
Boat and gear rentals
If you want to rent a boat or gear, you can get it at one of the following local rental suppliers:
Wild Rock Outfitters (169 Charlotte Street, Peterborough)
encoreNOW for July 13, 2026 features (from left to right, top and bottom) the North of Nowhere Music Festival in Lindsay, "In The Key of Blue" at Peterborough's Showplace Performance Centre, "Barnful of Broadway - Love Changes Everything" at Campbellford's Westben, Matthew Good at Peterborough Musicfest, Paul Reddick at the River Time Blues Festival in Port Hope, and Karen Parker and Diana Frances in "Leave it to Cleavage" at Bobcaygeon's Globus Theatre. (kawarthaNOW collage)
encoreNOW is a bi-weekly column by Paul Rellinger where he features upcoming music, theatre, film, and performing arts events and news from across the Kawarthas.
This week, Paul highlights the North of Nowhere Music Festival in Lindsay, In the Key of Blue at Peterborough’s Showplace, Barnful of Broadway at Westben in Campbellford, Matthew Good headlining Peterborough Musicfest, the River Time Blues Festival in Port Hope, and Globus Theatre’s staging of Leave it to Cleavage in Bobcaygeon.
North of Nowhere Music Festival back home at the Lindsay Fairgrounds
VIDEO: “S.O.S. (Sawed Off Shotgun)” – The Glorius Sons (2019)
Many a success can be traced back to a humble beginning.
In the summer of 2022, the inaugural North of Nowhere Music Festival was held in Bancroft. Founded by Calvin Hyde as a post-COVID response to the preceding dark years, the one-day country music showcase drew about 100 people. Not great.
Unfazed, Hyde vowed to come back bigger and better, and did when North of Nowhere found a new home at the Lindsay Fairgrounds. There was some discussion around moving the festival to Windfield Farms in Oshawa but that went nowhere, so Lindsay it remains.
From Thursday, July 16 to Saturday, July 18, Hyde is expecting a crowd of 10,000 to take in the 2026 edition of the country music and camping festival at the fairgrounds.
North of Nowhere begins on Thursday with a kick-off party featuring performances by The Practically Hip and Ty Wilson. On Friday, headliners include Dallas Smith, with Tim Hicks, Nate Haller, and Sacha, with Saturday featuring headliners The Glorious Sons, The Strumbellas, Tebey, and Ethan Miller.
In addition, there’s action away from the stage in the form of team cornhole and tailgate pong tournaments on Friday and Saturday, with entry fees destined for charity.
There are almost as many ticket options as there are performers, including general weekend admission, single day admission and VIP tickets, parking passes, and tent and RV camping reservations.
Blue Rodeo’s iconic music anchors new musical at Peterborough’s Showplace
VIDEO: “In the Key of Blue” excerpt
Every now and then, Peterborough’s Showplace Performance Centre scores a bona fide coup.
That will certainly be case on Friday (July 17) when In the Key of Blue checks in at the downtown venue for what’s billed as an “exclusive” performance of the “born and raised in Price Edward County” tale of dreams, love, and betrayal.
The new musical, which features the music of the quintessential Canadian rock band Blue Rodeo, premiered on July 3 at Picton’s Regent Theatre for three sold-out shows and was staged over three nights at Kingston’s Isabel Bader Centre this past weekend.
Written and directed by Mike Trites, a Blue Rodeo fan since he can remember, the story centres on a Canadian rock band given the opportunity to hit the big time, and the struggles encountered in the face of pressures brought on by success and celebrity.
A live band on stage, led by Prince Edward County-based musical director Daisy Box and featuring Juno-nominated and multi-Blues Canadian Award-winning singer-songwriter Miss Emily, will run through some of Blue Rodeo’s biggest hits, of which there are more than a few.
Tickets to the 7:30 p.m. performance are $75.45 (or $115 for VIP seating) and are available at www.showplace.org.
Advertisement - content continues below
Broadway love is in the air at Westben in Campbellford
During Westben’s “Barnful of Broadway – Love Changes Everything” at The Barn in Campbellford from July 22 to 30, 2026, Kim Dafoe, Adam Fisher, Lauren Lafayette Brooks, David Michael Moote, and Meher Pavri will perform love songs from popular Broadway musicals. (Collage: Westben)
While a barrelful of monkeys typically delivers in a crunch, a barnful of Broadway would seem equally promising in terms of delivering full entertainment value.
That exactly what Campbellford’s Westben is banking on when it brings popular songs from Broadway musicals to The Barn starting Tuesday, July 22.
“Barnful of Broadway – Love Changes Everything” features the talents of Kim Dafoe, Adam Fisher, Lauren Lafayette Brooks, David Michael Moote, and Meher Pavri — the same ensemble that brought “Phantom of the Opera In Concert” and “Les Misérables In Concert” to Westben. They’ll help their audience experience the transformative power of love on Broadway in all its many forms.
The musical revue will feature songs from a number of beloved musicals, including Aspects of Love, The Sound of Music, My Fair Lady, Hamilton, The Music Man, Dear Evan Hansen, West Side Story, and Wicked. Also featured will be classics by legendary composers such as Rodgers and Hammerstein, Andrew Lloyd Webber, and Stephen Sondheim.
Curtain is 2 p.m. from July 22 to 25 and 28 to 30, with a 1:15 p.m. chat with Barb Hobart held before each show. Tickets are $68.50 adults, $65.25 seniors, and $13.50 youth under 18 and are available at www.westben.ca.
Matthew Good brings his extensive catalogue to Peterborough Musicfest
VIDEO: “Lost and Found Kids” – Matthew Good (2025)
To its credit, Peterborough Musicfest has a brought a number of Juno Award nominees and winners to Del Crary Park for its annual summer concert series.
That’s not unusual, and we do take it for granted, but rarely has a performer with 21 — that’s right, 21 — Juno nominations been featured. Well, that will be case on Wednesday, July 22 when Matthew Good headlines the free-admission music festival.
During the 1990s and early 2000s, the Burnaby BC native enjoyed success as the lead singer and songwriter for The Matthew Good Band. When that band broke up in 2002, Good still had fuel in the tank. A lot of fuel that resulted in 13 album releases from 2003 to 2020 and two Juno Awards to go along with two he won as a member of the band that carried his name.
Widely considered one of the most successful Canadian alt-rock bands ever, band hits written by Good such as “Hello Timebomb,” “Everything Is Automatic,” “Indestructible,” “Apparitions,” and “Load Me Up” still enjoy considerable radio airplay. As a solo artist, Good has built on those years of success to appeal to a new legion of fans.
This concert was one of the last announced by Musicfest, giving truth to the notion that some things are indeed well worth the wait.
Before Good takes to the stage at 8 p.m. for the free-admission show, Toronto-based Anishanaabe indie roots-rock artist and songwriter Graeme Jonez will perform at 6:30 p.m. on the Cogeco-presented Future Sound Series stage.
Advertisement - content continues below
Paul Reddick among headliners at the River Time Blues Festival in Port Hope
VIDEO: “Mourning Dove” – Paul Reddick
You know what I love about summer? It’s not winter. On top of that, there’s music in the air. Not stuffy pub air but air of the fresh variety.
This bring us to yet another outdoor music festival that, while not as big an undertaking as the aforementioned North of Nowhere affair, is every bit worth the attention of those who love live music and maybe, just maybe, a heat-stifling breeze off of Lake Ontario.
Set for Friday, July 24 to Sunday, July 26, the River Time Blues Festival will be held at the Ganaraska Brewing Company on Mill Street in Port Hope in partnership with Ontario Street Theatre. Featuring a mix of free and ticketed events on the schedule, there’s a lot to choose from.
Things kick off Friday at 7 p.m. with Camilo Restrepo performing, with the main event set for Saturday in the form of a 2 to 9 p.m. outdoor music showcase featuring Juno Award winner Paul Reddick, Bad Luck Woman and Her Misfortunes, Dave Mowat and the Curbside Shuffle (featuring Port Hope’s own Clayton Yates), The Fraser Melvin Band, and DJ Salinger.
That will be followed on Sunday by a blue open mic event from 2 to 5 p.m. It’s free for those wanting to take to the stage, but call 905-885-9029 in advance to reserve a spot.
Laugh your lashes off at Bocaygeon’s Globus Theatre
VIDEO: “Leave it to Cleavage” opening segment
Bobcaygeon’s Globus Theatre has made a habit of bringing period pieces to its stage, a programming strategy that has proven quite successful for the theatre company.
With Leave it to Cleavage opening on Thursday, July 30, Globus takes audiences back to the 1950s — specifically to two martini-loving housewives aiming to “bring back the good old days” via interactive audience participation and “a tipsy walk down memory lane.”
Written by and starring Diana Frances and Karen Parker (both were seen in the Globus season opener of Girls Nite Out), the show will see audiences help rewrite the two women’s “Helpful Housewife Hints” while enjoying their Welcome Wagon treats. The gals may even recreate a “day in the life” of a woman who has it all — a family and a job!
One thing we can count on here is lots of laughs, which is another staple of Globus stagings.
Curtain is 8 p.m. on July 30 and 31 and August 1, with an optional dinner available at 6 p.m. before all performances. Visit www.globustheatre.com/shows-all/leave-it-to-cleavage for tickets, which are $50 for the show only or $100 for dinner and the show.
Advertisement - content continues below
Encore
Are you itching at the chance to perform your talent before a live and appreciative audience? Well, Honky-Tonk Angel on Highway 7 near Clifford Line in Cavan is there for you, now holding an open mic night every Thursday from 7 to 11 p.m. Hosted by local musician Ian Clement, an invited is extended to singers, musicians, poets, and comedians. All talent levels are welcome, with sign-up done upon arrival. The first open mic was held July 9 and was such a hit that it has been brought back for an indefinite run.
My pal Dan Hick has released a new song co-written in collaboration with Rachel Spillane a.k.a. Not Good At Music. “Back In Time” is available on Spotify, but August 8 will present the chance to hear it live when Hick and Spillane perform Saturday, August 8 from 4 to 6 p.m, at The Pig’s Ear Tavern in downtown Peterborough. Dan is really good at music. I’m guessing Rachel, despite her choice for a stage name, is pretty good too.
Rising Canadian country music artist Tyler Joe Miller performs a free-admission concert at Peterborough Musicfest in Del Crary Park on July 15, 2026. (Photo: Matthew Miller)
Peterborough Musicfest presents Tyler Joe Miller
When:Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at 8 p.m. Where: Del Crary Park (100 George St. N., Peterborough) How much: Free admission
The evening will also feature Joanna Bronson at 6:30 p.m. as part of the Cogeco Future Sound Series. Bring your own lawn chairs or blankets (lawn chairs are available to rent). VIP seating available for sponsors. No smoking, alcohol, or pets permitted. There’s no public parking at Del Crary Park, but there’s neighbourhood street parking nearby and ample parking in downtown Peterborough.
Of all the various art forms, music has the distinction of catapulting, virtually overnight, unknown practitioners into widely known figures.
In other disciplines such as theatre or dance, an impressive body of work is typically required before such status is attained. In the music world, however, a song that immediately resonates with the masses via radio airplay, streaming, or social media often does the trick, and in very quick fashion.
Up until late 2019, country singer Tyler Joe Miller was relatively unknown. On Christmas Day of that year, the release of the Surrey, BC native’s first single changed the trajectory of his music career in sudden and dramatic fashion.
Advertisement - content continues below
The lead single off Miller’s then-pending debut EP Sometimes I Don’t, But Sometimes I Do, “Pillow Talkin'” zoomed to the top spot on the Billboard Canada Country Chart — the first time a debut single by an independent artist had ever done so. In addition, the song earned the 70th spot on the Canadian Hot 100, and was certified gold in Canada for 40,000-plus sales.
For country music fans, Miller was no longer an unknown. Better still, they wanted to hear more.
On July 15 at Del Crary Park, Miller will headline as part of the 39th edition of Peterborough Musicfest, providing proof in the process that there has been life after his auspicious debut, and it has been good. As always, admission is free to the sponsored-supported 8 p.m. concert.
VIDEO: “Pillow Talkin'” – Tyler Joe Miller
Come June 2020, Miller had laid well to rest any notion that he would be just another name on the long list of one-hit wonders when “I Would Be Over Me Too” — his second co-written single from same debut EP — also hit number one on the Billboard Canada Country Chart, giving him his first chart topper as a songwriter.
After its November 2020 release, his debut EP also produced two more singles in “Fighting” and “Sometimes I Do.” During 2022, he released the singles “Wild As Her” and “Never Met A Beer,” the latter a collaboration with fellow Canadian country artist Matt Lang.
The following year was a big year for Miller, and a busy one. Following the February 2023 release of the single “Back To Drinkin’ Whiskey,” Miller released the acoustic EP The Band’s Packed Up, which included the single “I Know Jack” amongst its tracks. Then, in August, the inevitable happened with the release of Miller’s debut full-length studio album Spillin’ My Truth.
Among the album’s 11 tracks were some of the singles released earlier in 2023 as well as “Wild As Her,” peaking in the number eight spot on Billboard Canada Country Chart which, by this time, was quite familiar territory for Miller.
Advertisement - content continues below
After signing management and distribution deals in 2024, Miller released the single “Broken Man” in March of that year, toured Canada, and released the single “What Good Is A Memory,” which was included on his EP Going Home. That same year saw Miller nominated for three 2025 Canadian Country Music Association Awards: Album of the Year, Fans’ Choice, and Male Artist of the Year.
In addition, Spillin’ My Truth earned a 2024 Juno Award nomination for Country Album of the Year while Going Home brought forth a 2025 Juno Award nomination, also for Country Album of the Year.
While the central themes of Miller’s songs of love, loss, and resilience are familiar to country music fans, his talent needed a springboard and that very first single “Pillow Talkin'” was clearly the jumping-off point.
VIDEO: “Broken Man” – Tyler Joe Miller
In a 2022 interview with Matthew Patania of Pulse Music Magazine, Miller expressed his shock over not one but two of his first singles attaining number one on the Billboard Canada Country Chart.
“It still hasn’t sunk in — I don’t think it ever will,” he said.
“It was crazy to hear Pillow Talkin’ on the radio for first time, and to have it go number one was nuts. It was the coolest thing I could have experienced as an artist, other than a crowd singing it back to me. To have a song you wrote be loved as much, or more, by your fans is truly an unreal experience.”
Advertisement - content continues below
In the same interview, Miller recounted how living in British Columbia strengthened his passion for country music.
“Being out in the country up at my cabin and being out in nature really contributed to my love for music, because that’s where I remember listening to a lot of the music I grew up on,” he said.
“I remember listening to those CDs for the first time and coming up with song ideas of my own and feeling like it came to me so naturally in that environment. It made it easier for me once I started writing songs because I could just write about things I had experienced and that fit so perfectly into country music.”
VIDEO: “Fighting” – Tyler Joe Miller
His many musical pursuits aside, Miller — a carpenter and painter by trade — owns The Climb Outreach Society, a non-profit organization that provides housing, drinking water sources, emergency food funds, and healthcare for newborn babies in Central America. Indeed, that good work is one of his motivations for pursuing a career in music.
“I remember playing a few songs I wrote with a couple of people out on the patio at night and the next day someone from our group asked me if it was me singing the night before,” Miller recalled. “I said yes, and he questioned why I wasn’t pursuing country music. I explained that I was happy running my contracting business and doing non-profit work and he put the idea in my head that I could potentially help more people if I make a name for myself with music and use that to encourage others to help where needed, and here I am.”
Prior to Tyler Joe Miller taking the stage, the Cogeco-sponsored Future Sound Series will see Peterborough singer-songwriter Joanna Bronson perform from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., near the food trucks at the George Street entrance to Del Crary Park.
Advertisement - content continues below
Peterborough Musicfest is presenting 16 free-admission concerts during its 39th season, staged in Del Crary Park on Wednesday and Saturday nights until August 19.
Overseen by executive director Tracey Randall and staff, a board of directors, and numerous volunteers, Peterborough Musicfest’s stated mission remains “to provide diverse, affordable live music to enrich cultural and economic prosperity in our community.”
For more information on this concert or the 2026 season, visit www.ptbomusicfest.ca or call the Peterborough Musicfest office at 705-755-1111.
kawarthaNOW is proud to be a headline sponsor of Peterborough Musicfest’s 2026 season.
kawarthaNOW.com offers two enews options to help readers stay in the know. Our VIP enews is delivered weekly every Wednesday morning and includes exclusive giveaways, and our news digest is delivered daily every morning. You can subscribe to one or both.
Submit your event for FREE!
Use our event submission form to post your event on our website — for free.
To submit editorial content or ideas, please contact us.
