Organized by the Kawartha Cycling Club in partnership with A Place Called Home and sponsored by Boston Pizza Lindsay, the 22nd annual Kawartha Lakes Classic Cycling Tour takes place in Oakwood on August 23, 2025, with all proceeds supporting emergency shelter services for individuals and families in Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton County experiencing homelessness. (Photo courtesy of A Place Called Home)
A whole lot of wheels will be in motion on Saturday, August 23 to raise money for Lindsay’s homeless shelter, and there’s still time to register for the 22nd annual Kawartha Lakes Classic Cycling Tour.
This year’s fundraiser kicks off in Oakwood at the Oakwood Lions Mariposa Community Hall, located at 1008 Eldon Road.
Cyclists can choose from five routes: 20 kilometres (with road or trail options), 50 kilometres, 70 kilometre (gravel), 100 kilometres, and 160 kilometres. Routes will have staggered start times from 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. depending on length.
Advertisement - content continues below
Organized by the Kawartha Cycling Club in partnership with APCH and sponsored by Boston Pizza’s Lindsay location, all proceeds from the event support emergency shelter services for individuals and families in Kawartha Lakes and the County of Haliburton experiencing homelessness.
Jen Lopinski of APCH told kawarthaNOW that organizers hope to have 200 cyclists participating in this year’s event.
“We are at about 127 at the moment with a week to go,” she said. “The best outcome is that we have terrific cycling weather for event day and that our participants enjoy the routes and the new venue in Oakwood.”
Advertisement - content continues below
“Our goal is to raise over $50,000 so that we can continue to support as many people as we can that are experiencing a housing crisis,” Lopinski said. Last year’s event raised a total of $40,000 for APCH.
To kick off the day, Westerby Entertainment will provide energizing music to get everyone revved up to ride. Participants will enjoy a post-ride lunch featuring pizza and Caesar salad from Boston Pizza Lindsay and dessert from Kawartha Wholesale Bakery.
The Oakwood & District Lions Club will offer a cash bar after the ride is over, with all proceeds also supporting APCH.
Advertisement - content continues below
Advance registration is $100 until event day, when it increases to $120. Students pay $50 and youth pay $15 regardless of when they register. In-person registration will also be available on event day on site at the Oakwood Lions Mariposa Community Hall.
To make the event part of a full weekend, participating cyclists can also take advantage of a special combo package that includes 10 per cent off accommodations at Days Inn & Suites in Lindsay and two free tickets to a performance at Grove Theatre in Fenelon Falls.
Riders who choose to raise funds as well as register will receive custom event cycling socks and NiteRider bike lights.
Advertisement - content continues below
The event, with its varied routes and distances, is suitable for seasoned cyclists and recreational riders alike, APCH noted.
As well as providing emergency shelter to those experiencing homelessness in Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton County, ACPH also offers drop-in services to those at risk of homelessness. Clients can access shower, laundry, and bathroom facilities, as well as one meal a day, while working with staff to build a housing plan that leads to improved housing stability.
Bannock & Bean founder Katie Beaver with her partner Adrian Thomas. The Anishinaabe artist began her mobile business this summer to serve fresh bannock, good coffee, and other treats at festivals and events around Peterborough. Bannock & Bean also sells Beaver's original, cheeky beaver-themed cards, magnets, and stickers. (Photo courtesy of Bannock & Bean)
A new Indigenous-owned pop-up business is serving up some good food and vibes in Nogojiwanong-Peterborough.
As its name suggests, Bannock & Bean is a one-stop shop for fresh, modern Indigenous cuisine and a strong cup o’ joe — but it’s also selling whimsical, cheeky pieces of artwork made by owner Katie Beaver.
“I grew up making bannock and I know it’s a really popular thing,” says Beaver. “And I’m obsessed with coffee, and make a good coffee, so I just want to share that with people.”
Advertisement - content continues below
Share on Bluesky
Now residing in Nogojiwanong-Peterborough, Beaver was born and raised in Alderville First Nation where, from a young age, her father taught her how to make the traditional family bannock that had been passed down through generations.
As it’s known today, bannock is a form of quick-fry bread that is believed to have been introduced by Scottish fur traders in the 18th and 19th centuries, although Indigenous peoples in North America had previously made versions using starch from the stems of ferns and other wild plants.
When Indigenous peoples were moved off their traditional land and onto reserves, unable to hunt and gather as they once did, the Canadian government supplied them with rations including flour, eggs, and lard, which they turned into bannock.
Along with bannock, a quick-fry bread that Indigenous peoples began making out of non-Indigenous food rations from the Canadian government when they were prevented from hunting and gathering off reserve in the late 19th century, Bannock & Bean serves specialty hot and iced coffee, tea, and strawberry water. (Photos courtesy of Bannock & Bean)
“This food comes with resilience because it came from rations that were given on the reserve and we took those rations and made our own thing with it,” says Beaver. “My dad said if they didn’t have bannock, they might have starved.”
“That’s a powerful statement, but kind of true. They just didn’t have any other options for food. They weren’t allowed to leave the reserve to hunt or anything, so they’re just given these rations, and that’s what they dealt with.”
At Bannock & Bean, which will be popping up at festivals and events around Peterborough, Beaver’s partner Adrian Thomas joins Beaver to make the fresh bannock, which is served with butter, jam, or peanut butter.
Advertisement - content continues below
Share on Bluesky
“He’s been my big support system,” says Beaver. “He’s been giving me encouragement and enthusiasm, so I really couldn’t do it without him.”
The pop-up also serves pow-wow puffs — a mini dessert version of bannock, rolled in brown sugar and cinnamon and served with hazelnut cocoa spread.
Rounding out the limited menu, Bannock & Bean also offers drip and specialty hot and iced coffees, tea, and strawberry water.
After studying under an Indigenous artist, Katie Beaver began making beaver-themed artworks using watercolour and cheeky beaver puns. She now sells magnets, cards, and stickers of her artwork through her mobile business Bannock & Bean. (Photo courtesy of Bannock & Bean)
While Bannock & Bean has operated at small events by using a generator and a couple of espresso machines intended for home use, Beaver hopes that by next summer, they’ll have received some grants to purchase a commercial-grade espresso machine. This will allow them to set up their booth and coffee bar at larger festivals and markets.
Though it was always a “childhood dream” to own her own restaurant after spending many years working in one, Beaver has also always been an artist, which she now incorporates as part of Bannock & Bean.
Two years ago, she made a zine with beaver characters — taking inspiration from her own last name, of course — after studying under an Indigenous artist.
Advertisement - content continues below
Share on Bluesky
Now Beaver turns the whimsical, colourful characters into cards, magnets, and stickers that are captioned with some cheeky puns.
“People really like them, and they get a lot of good feedback, even though they are silly,” she says. “I’m always excited to make more.”
To keep up to date on vendor pop-ups and new artwork, follow Bannock & Bean on Facebook and Instagram.
Selwyn Beach Conservation Area is located on the northeast shore of Chemong Lake. It is best known for its excellent swimming with a gently sloping sandy beach. Parents and caregivers are advised that the beach and swimming area are not supervised. (Photo: Otonabee Conservation)
Every Friday during swimming season, we post The Beach Report™ — our weekly report of the results of water quality testing at beaches in the greater Kawarthas region — and update it throughout the week as conditions change.
As of Thursday, August 21 at 8 a.m., the following beaches are unsafe for swimming:
Beavermead Park in Peterborough
Rogers Cove in Peterborough
Douro North Park in Douro-Dummer
Beach Park in Bobcaygeon
Crowe Bridge Park in Trent Hills
In addition, as of July 3, Peterborough Public Health has received multiple reports of residents experiencing swimmer’s itch, a skin rash caused by an allergic reaction to infection with certain parasites of birds and mammals, after swimming at White’s Beach in Trent Lakes. For more information and precautions, visit the Swimmer’s Itch page on the health unit’s website.
Advertisement - content continues below
Below are the complete results of water quality testing at beaches in the City and County of Peterborough, the City of Kawartha Lakes, Haliburton County, Northumberland County, and Hastings County and Prince Edward County.
In the City of Peterborough, Peterborough Public Health Inspectors sample the beaches at Rogers Cove and Beavermead every business day, and public beaches in the County of Peterborough are sampled at least once a week (except for Chandos Beach, Quarry Bay Beach, and White’s Beach which are sampled at least once in June, July, and August).
The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit provides weekly testing results for beaches in the City of Kawartha Lakes, Haliburton County, and Northumberland County. Testing is based on the most recent test results from the provincial lab in Peterborough for water samples taken from these beaches.
As of 2025, Hastings Prince Edward Public Health provides weekly testing results for only six designated public beaches in Hastings County and Prince Edward County. It no longer regularly samples another 13 beaches due to historically low occurrence of high bacteria levels.
During the summer, local health units sample water at area beaches and test for bacteria such as E. coli to determine if the water quality at a beach is safe for public use. Popular beaches, like the beach at Roger’s Cove in Peterborough’s East City, are tested every business day while most other beaches are tested weekly. (Photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW.com)
Important note
The following test results may not reflect current water quality conditions. Water samples can take one to three days to process and heavy rainfall, high winds or wave activity, large numbers of waterfowl near a beach, or large numbers of swimmers can rapidly change water quality.
You should always check current conditions before deciding to use a beach. You should also monitor other factors that might suggest a beach is unsafe to use, such as floating debris, oil, discoloured water, bad odours, and excessive weed growth.
Visitors and locals alike will have the chance to explore the Haliburton Highlands in all its glory when the Hike Haliburton Festival returns from September 18 to 21, 2025. The 22nd annual festival is bigger than ever, featuring more than 40 guided hikes led by local volunteers, self-guided hikes, paid excursions by adventure outfitters, and cultural events and activities taking place across Haliburton County. (Photo courtesy of Haliburton County)
What began more than 20 years ago by a grassroots organization committed to helping visitors explore Haliburton Highlands has turned into Canada’s largest free hiking festival — and this year’s festival has lots to offer everyone, whether you’re looking for an easy walk with the family or a more challenging adventure.
When it returns from Thursday, September 18 to Sunday, September 21, Hike Haliburton will be hosting more than 40 free guided hikes led by knowledgeable and passionate local volunteers. The festival also provides locals and visitors with the opportunity to explore the region through self-guided hikes, paid excursions, and cultural experiences.
The fall colours should be at their peak during Hike Haliburton in the Haliburton Highlands from September 18 to 21, 2025. Along with the stunning scenery, fall is the perfect season for hiking, with cooler temperatures and no bugs. (Photo courtesy of Haliburton County)
Share on Bluesky
“Haliburton Highlands has a really great mix of Canadian Shield with over 500 lakes and more than 2,000 kilometres of developed trails — it’s a nature-lover’s paradise,” says Haliburton County Manager of Tourism Angelica Ingram. “This area has become known for adventure and outdoor tourism because there’s so much to see and do outdoors.”
Consistently selected as one of the Top 100 Festivals in Ontario by Festival & Events Ontario, the festival returns each year just as the region’s fall colours are peaking, ensuring that every photo snapped during the weekend has a stunning backdrop.
“Fall is my favourite time of the year in Haliburton: it’s bug-free, you get comfortable temperatures where you’re not typically dealing with heat advisories, and you get cooler evenings,” says Ingram. “It’s a really great time of year to enjoy not just the climate and the weather, but the colours and the scenery. Hike Haliburton is a great outing that’s not cost prohibitive and there’s something for everyone.”
Haliburton Highlands has a mix of rugged Canadian Shield landscapes with over 500 lakes and more than 2,000 kilometres of developed trails. Many of the guided hikes during Hike Haliburton from September 18 to 21, 2025 will take participants to explore hidden waterfalls and conservation areas as well as and private properties that are normally not open to the public. (Photo courtesy of Haliburton County)
Share on Bluesky
This year, the county received a tourism grant through the Federal Economic Development Agency of Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) to grow the festival for its 22nd year. The funding has allowed the county to upgrade its registration system for the hikes, as well as grow the festival’s offerings and tie in more regional events and activities.
“It’s going to be a really big, fun festival weekend across the Haliburton Highlands this year,” promises Ingram.
Part of this growth involves scheduling even more guided hikes than usual, with excursions ranging from beginner-friendly hikes to hours-long adventures on a kayak or paddleboard. Throughout the festival, participants will discover hidden waterfalls, climb rocky ledges, paddle glassy waters, and, ultimately, be immersed in nature.
With more than 40 guided hikes led by knowledgeable and passionate volunteers, Hike Haliburton from September 18 to 21, 2025 gives visitors and locals alike the opportunity to learn about the history, topography, geology, and wildlife of the Haliburton Highlands. (Photo courtesy of Haliburton County)
Share on Bluesky
A unique aspect of the festival is that all guided hikes are led by local, knowledgeable volunteers and experts who will share what they love most about the Haliburton Highlands.
“The volunteers have a wide range of backgrounds and histories, from amateur athletes to foragers with plant knowledge to people who have wellness, healing, or meditative approaches to the hike,” Ingram says.
“These volunteers are doing it because they know a lot about the area — whether it’s the history, geography, wildlife — and really want to share this experience with somebody.”
Guided hikes during Hike Haliburton from September 18 to 21, 2025 range in difficulty level from beginner and family-friendly to those that are more challenging for adventure seekers. A new addition to the lineup this year, Ellie and Shawn Chamberlin of the Dominion Hotel will be leading a hike through Minden that will explore the history of the town and its 160-year-old hotel through stories, songs, and more. (Photo: Dominion Hotel)
Share on Bluesky
One of several new hikes featured this year, “Steps and Stories” will take hikers to explore the history of the region through the lens of the Dominion Hotel, which is currently celebrating its 160th anniversary.
Owners Shawn and Elli Chamberlin will take hikers on a fun and humourous stroll along the Minden Riverwalk Trail, where they will talk about the weather, water levels, local history, and entertain with some stories. Being held on Sunday, September 21, the two-kilometre hike is suitable for beginners and children.
“It will be a lot of fun because Elli and Shawn Chamberlin are just really vibrant and animated people, and nobody can tell a story like Shawn Chamberlin,” Ingram says. “It’s good for families because it’s just around Minden and talking about the history, talking about the hotel and the town itself, but it’s not a strenuous hike by any means.”
While some of the guided hikes during Hike Haliburton from September 18 to 21, 2025 are focused on sharing stories and knowledge about the Haliburton Highlands, others are more meditative in nature and encourage participants to slow down and reconnect with themselves and nature. (Photo courtesy of Haliburton County)
For those feeling more adventurous, you’ll also find hikes that are meant to be a bit more challenging like the “Bear Mountain Adventure” hike and canoe trip.
Join Melissa Tong and Cameron Ferguson across the remote Livingstone Lake to a portage leading into Bear Lake where, after a short paddle to the base of Bear Mountain, the group will hike to a 200-metre rock face. Enjoy panoramic views of the Algonquin Dome while enjoying a trail lunch before returning to Bear Lake and exploring a waterfall and Hinterland Marsh.
Moderate canoeing skills and a good level of fitness are required for this six-to-eight-hour excursion which will take place on Thursday, September 21.
In addition to guided hikes, Hike Haliburton from September 18 to 21, 2025 offers paid excursions through local providers, including the Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve where visitors can see the Haliburton Highlands from the treetops through a guided canopy tour. (Photo courtesy of Haliburton County)
Share on Bluesky
Prefer more of a relaxed hike that helps you reconnect with nature and yourself? “Fall in Love with the Forest” on a hike at The Frost Centre led by certified Forest Therapy Guide Donna Raetsen.
The “gentle guided wander,” which is designed to slow you down and awaken your senses, will include stopping often to breathe, reflect, and notice the beauty of the surroundings.
“A lot of these hikes are going to not just be a walk, as they will offer stories and tales and expertise and knowledge sharing,” says Ingram. “Some of these private areas, private land, and private properties get opened up for Hike Haliburton specifically. You get to see someone’s back 40 or hidden gems, areas, trails, or lakes that you normally wouldn’t get to see.”
Throughout the weekend, local tour operators will be offering paid excursions that will help visitors explore the region in all new ways. Get on a stand-up paddleboard by booking experiences with Wolf Flow SUP Yoga & Fitness, or explore from the treetops with a canopy tour at Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve.
During Hike Haliburton from September 18 to 21, 2025, there will be many cultural events and activities happening across the Haliburton Highlands. This includes the new En Plain Air Haliburton juried exhibit taking over the Rails End Gallery and Arts Centre in Haliburton. Opening Friday, September 19, the exhibit will feature local artworks made outdoors within the county. (Photo: Rails End Gallery and Arts Centre)
There is a lot more than hiking on the lineup during Hike Haliburton. Before or after you’ve finished your outdoor adventure, take the chance to explore the range of cultural and heritage experiences happening throughout the weekend in the Haliburton Highlands.
Bringing some colour to Head Lake Park in the village of Haliburton, Colourfest is being held on Saturday, September 20 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Held by the Municipality of Dysart et al, the festival features a range of activities for the whole family from bouncy castles to crafts, and plenty of sweet treats and games.
Share on Bluesky
Also during Hike Haliburton, the Rails End Gallery and Arts Centre in Haliburton will have just launched En Plein Air Haliburton 2025, a juried exhibition and “friendly competition” of paintings that were created outdoors across the county. The exhibition is being held from Friday, September 19 to Saturday, November 8, 2025.
“It partners so well with Hike Haliburton, with artists taking their easels out to a river stream and painting, and it’s a mini hike on their own,” says Ingram, noting it’s one of the many cultural events happening in the area over the weekend.
“Hike Haliburton is a great time to go out to a local or family festival, go to a concert, go to a gallery, and then grab an ice cream on your way home.”
There are lots of accommodation options in the Haliburton Highlands if you want to stay overnight during Hike Haliburton from September 18 to 21, 2025, from sleeping under the stars by booking a backcountry campsite in the southern corridor of Algonquin Provincial Park to a wide range of beds and breakfasts, motels and inns, resorts and lodges, cottage resorts, and more. (Photo courtesy of Haliburton County)
With so much to see and do across the Haliburton Highlands, you might be inclined to turn Hike Haliburton into a full weekend getaway. Fortunately, the region offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all needs, whether you’re travelling with your family — pet included — or seeking an intimate escape with a partner.
You can sleep under the stars by booking a backcountry campsite off the Kingscote Access Point in the southern corridor of Algonquin Provincial Park, or opt for the rustic, sustainable-minded Algonquin Eco-Lodge to continue to be immersed in all the natural glory the Haliburton Highlands has to offer. For a more elevated experience, check into Nomi Resort Club, where high-end cuisine and luxury residences await on 850 acres abundant with shoreline and views of the pines.
For more information on the Hike Haliburton Festival and to register for the free guided hikes and paid experiences, visit myhaliburtonhighlands.com/hike-haliburton/, and follow Hike Haliburton on Facebook and Instagram for more hiking inspiration.
This branded editorial was created in partnership with the County of Haliburton. If your organization or business is interested in a branded editorial, contact us.
Formerly Minden Pride, Pride in the Highlands is celebrating Pride Week in the Haliburton Highlands with a series of events running from August 18 to 24, 2025. (Photo via My Haliburton Highlands website)
Haliburton Highlands residents are invited to dust off their cowboy boots and join Pride in the Highlands and partners for a session of line dancing in the street in Minden during Pride Week in the Highlands, which runs from August 18 to 24.
Dance Happens Here Haliburton (DH3) is partnering with Pride in the Highlands and the River Cone to host “Out in the Street Line Dancing” from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, August 23.
“We’d be thrilled if some people who came who may have been a little nervous about line dancing left with a smile on their faces and feeling confident and comfortable, dancing, and moving together with others,” DH3 committee member Myra Stephen told kawarthaNOW.
Advertisement - content continues below
“We will be excited if people are introduced to the work that Pride in the Highlands does and try the excellent food and drinks at the River Cone if they’ve never been there before,” Stephen added. “We will be thrilled if people of all ages and abilities come together to share good vibes and good feelings.”
Inclusion is the theme of the event, which is free although donations are welcome. Dances will be led by local line dance instructor Jacqui Bell, and everyone is welcome to join in.
“My approach is to teach some simple steps so that everyone feels comfortable joining in,” Bell said. “There will be something for everyone.”
Advertisement - content continues below
In addition, as part of the afternoon activities, dancers from some of Bell’s classes will show off their moves.
Located at 119 Bobcaygeon Road, the River Cone will have food and beverages available, “plus a few special Pride in the Highlands features,” a media release noted.
“We’re so excited to have this happening at the River Cone,” said Monica and Ben Scott of the River Cone in a joint statement. “We are all about families and love doing things for the community.”
Advertisement - content continues below
Pride in the Highlands co-chair Allan Guinan said the group is “thrilled” to partner with DH3 to host the community dance during Pride Week.
“We hope everyone will join us as we dance on the street to all kinds of music including queer artists and choreographers from Orville Peck, Elton John and others,” Guinan said. “Don your favorite street dancing shoes and come enjoy the fun.”
The event is possible due to funding support from the Government of Canada and donations to DH3.
Advertisement - content continues below
Formerly Minden Pride, Pride in the Highlands is a volunteer-run not-for-profit organization serving the 2SLGBTQIA+ community throughout the Haliburton Highlands, which includes Minden Hills, Algonquin Highlands, Dysart Et Al, and Highlands East.
Pride Week in Haliburton Highlands kicks off on Monday (August 18) with an official flag raising and opening ceremonies at 11 a.m. at the municipal offices in Minden Hills, followed by the another flag raising with opening ceremonies at 4 p.m. at the Haliburton arena, with other events throughout the week.
For more information about Pride in the Highlands and a list of all the events, visit www.prideinthehighlands.ca.
There will be plenty of cooked corn smothered in butter for the entire family to enjoy during the annual Corn Roast event at Lang Pioneer Village Museum in Keene on August 17, 2025. Find out the many ways 19th-century settlers used corn, watch a variety of harvest-related and historic demonstrations, enter a corn-on-the-cob eating contest, and more. (Photo courtesy of Lang Pioneer Village Museum)
While the corn will be boiled rather than roasted this year because of the county-wide fire ban, Lang Pioneer Village Museum in Keene will still be celebrating the summer harvest season in settler style during the annual Corn Roast event from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday (August 17).
Along with plenty of cooked corn with butter, the day of family fun includes historic demonstrations, live music, and more.
Tour the historic village in a horse-drawn wagon while you discover the many different ways 19th-century settlers used corn, with harvest-related demonstrations including threshing, bagging, fanning mill, corn husk braiding, and corn shelling.
Advertisement - content continues below
Other historic demonstrations include natural dyeing using native plants, flop mattress repairing and stuffing, stitching with the Northumberland Hills Stitchery Guild, weaving on the Jacquard loom, wood turning with the Kawartha Woodturners Guild and the Peterborough Artisan Centre Wood Turners, rug hooking with the Northumberland Rug Hookers, grinding at the Grist Mill, and more.
Listen to harvest songs being played on the organ in the Glen Alda Church and traditional music performed by Glen Caradus on the Weaver Shop porch.
Visit the Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building to see the entries submitted for the Peterborough Agricultural Society’s Homecraft Show (also running on August 15 and 16), and view the Kawartha Truth and Reconciliation quilt on display. There will also be a display by the Otonabee South-Monaghan Public Library
Tour Lang Pioneer Village Museum in Keene in a horse-drawn wagon and watch harvest-related demonstrations including threshing, bagging, fanning mill, corn husk braiding, and corn shelling during the annual Corn Roast event at Lang Pioneer Village Museum in Keene on August 17, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Lang Pioneer Village Museum)
Enjoy steaming cooked corn smothered in butter and, if you’re up for a challenge, enter the afternoon corn-on-the-cob eating contest taking place on the Village Green.
The Keene Lions Club food truck will at the Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building courtyard selling BBQ goods (cash only), sweet treats and cold beverages will be available for purchase in the Keene Hotel, Ben’s Kettle Corn will be popping up fresh kettle corn for sale, and the Cheese Factor will be selling fresh Empire Cheese curd and bread.
Admission costs $17 for adults, $12 for students and seniors 60 and older, and $9 for children and youth ages five to 14, with free admission for children under five. Family admission is also available for $45 and includes two adults and up to four children and youth.
Advertisement - content continues below
Visitors may purchase admission at the gates or in advance online. To purchase advance admission or for more information, visit langpioneervillage.ca.
This is the final special event for the summer at Lang Pioneer Village Museum. Special events for the fall include Applefest on Sunday, October 5 and Spooky All Hallows’ Eve on Friday and Saturday, October 24 and 25.
Lang Pioneer Village Museum’s summer hours of operation of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays to Sundays continue until August 31. From September 1 to November 14, outside of the special events mentioned above, the museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesdays to Fridays.
Historic demonstrations during the annual Corn Roast event at Lang Pioneer Village Museum in Keene on August 17, 2025 will include natural dyeing using native plants. Some of the demontrations will be modified this year to accommodate the county-wide fire ban. (Photo courtesy of Lang Pioneer Village Museum)
In a region classified as experiencing high to extreme fire risk, Northumberland County is reminding all who frequent the Northumberland County Forest to take every precaution necessary to prevent sparks that might ignite a fire, including from cigarette butts and engines. Pictured is a prescribed burn in April 2015 in the red pine plantation south of the Beagle Club Road parking lot to reduce fuel (pine needles) and prepare the site for ongoing restoration and conversion from a red pine plantation to oak forest. (Photo: Northumberland County Forest / Facebook)
Northumberland County is issuing a call for hikers and others who visit the county forest to be vigilant and prevent sparks as wildfires burn elsewhere in the greater Kawarthas region.
With the region classified as experiencing high to extreme fire risk, Northumberland County is reminding all who frequent the Northumberland County Forest to help protect the forest by taking steps to prevent fires.
Given the dangerously dry conditions, people are asked to take every precaution necessary to prevent a fire and respect the county-wide open-air burn ban announced by the County Fire Chiefs Association on August 6, a media release from the county noted.
Advertisement - content continues below
“Our area is now considered a high to extreme fire risk due to current drought conditions, which have left the forest tinder dry,” said Todd Farrell, the county’s natural heritage manager, in a statement.
“One small spark — from something as simple as a cigarette butt or a hot engine — could start a wildfire that spreads rapidly. A potential fire wouldn’t just damage the forest; it could threaten homes, properties, and lives in our community.”
Open flames — including campfires, fireworks, sparklers, and flares — are never permitted in the Northumberland County Forest.
Advertisement - content continues below
As a result of the fire risk, Northumberland County is keeping a close eye on the forest, said Kate Campbell, director of communications for Northumberland County.
“Forest staff have enhanced monitoring and surveillance activities, revised work plans to minimize proximity to dry vegetation, and are thoroughly assessing any equipment used in operations that generates heat, to minimize risk of ignition,” Campbell told kawarthaNOW.
The county asks those who visit the forest to take extreme caution to extinguish and properly dispose of cigarette butts, lighters, and matches, and preferably avoiding smoking in the forest altogether.
Advertisement - content continues below
People should also be cautious using motorized vehicles or equipment that could spark, leak fuel, or ignite dry vegetation. Riders should ensure they have a properly functioning exhaust and spark arrestors.
“Northumberland County continues to closely monitor fire risk conditions and may consider additional precautions to limit risk as the situation evolves,” the release noted.
Local fire departments urge residents and visitors to immediately report any signs of smoke or fire by calling 9-1-1.
Advertisement - content continues below
“No matter where you see or smell smoke, call 9-1-1 immediately,” Farrell said. “Quick reporting helps emergency services respond faster and protects our community. And remember — there is absolutely no burning allowed in the forest — now or at any time of the year.”
Elsewhere in the greater Kawarthas region, two of the three wildland fires burning in the region — HAL018 in Hastings County and HAL019 east of Burnt River — are “being held” (contained) as of Thursday (August 14).
The remaining fire — OFR001 south of Kirkfield — is still out of control but not spreading.
In advance of the free festival weekend at Nicholls Oval Park, the Peterborough Folk Festival is presenting Ottawa indie rocker Nixon Boyd (guitarist with Hollerado) at The John at Sadleir House in downtown Peterborough on Friday night with VanCamp and I, The Mountain opening. (Photo: Adam Crosby)
Every Thursday, kawarthaNOW publishes live music events at pubs and restaurants in Peterborough and the greater Kawarthas region based on information that musicians provide directly or that venues post on their websites or social media channels. Here are the listings for the week of Thursday, August 14 to Wednesday, August 20.
If you’re a musician or venue owner and want to be included in our weekly listings, email our nightlifeNOW editor at nightlife@kawarthanow.com. For concerts and live music events at other venues, check out our Concerts & Live Music page.
With the exception of karaoke, we only list events with performing musicians. Venues may also host other events during the week (e.g., dancing, DJs, comedy shows).
Saturday, August 23 8:30pm - Port Hope Jazz presents Oakland Stroke ($35)
Saturday, September 6 8pm - Brooks & Bowskill ($30 cash at Zap Records or The Ganny)
Sunday, September 7 2pm - Brooks & Bowskill ($30 cash at Zap Records or The Ganny)
The Granite
45 Bridge St. W., Bancroft
613-332-1500
Saturday, August 16
5-8pm - Laura Keating
Haliburton Highlands Brewing
15543 Highway 35, Carnarvon
705-754-2739
Friday, August 15
7-9pm - Rich Howard
Saturday, August 16
2-4pm - Chris Smith
Sunday, August 17
2-4pm - Trina West
Advertisement - content continues below
Jethro's Bar + Stage
137 Hunter St. W., Peterborough
705-931-0617
Friday, August 15
8-10pm -Dan Hick, Lucy Ferrill; 10pm-12am - Allura
Saturday, August 16
8-10pm - Ryan Naismith, Chris Gostling; 10pm-12am - Peterborough Folk Festival After Party w/ The Jet Airliners ft Jeanne Truax
Sunday, August 17
Closed (Jethro’s Blues Jam All Stars are playing at the Peterborough Folk Festival)
Wednesday, August 20
9pm - The Space Heaters
The John at Sadleir House
751 George St. N., Peterborough
705-742-3686
Friday, August 15
8:30pm - Peterborough Folk Festival presents Nixon Boyd (of Hollerado) w/ VanCamp and I, The Mountain ($25 in advance at https://www.ticketscene.ca/events/55033/)
VIDEO: "Every Time We Turn a Corner" - Nixon Boyd
Kawartha Country Wines
2452 County Road 36,, Buckhorn
705-657-9916
Sunday, August 17
1-4pm - Ralph Thrun (no cover)
Kelly's Homelike Inn
205 3rd Street, Cobourg
905-372-3234
Friday, August 15
7-10pm - Matt SImpson
Saturday, August 16
4-8pm - Shaun Savoy
The Locker at The Falls
9 Lindsay St., Fenelon Falls
705-887-6211
Thursday, August 14
7:30-10pm - Open mic w/ Rick Hughes
Saturday, August 16
5-8pm - Live music TBA
Sunday, August 17
1-4pm - Sean Jamieson
Mainstreet Bar & Grill
1939 Lakehurst Road, Buckhorn
(705) 657-9094
Friday, August 15
7:30pm - Karaoke hosted by DJ Ross
Saturday, August 16
7pm - Rob Donaldson
McGillicafey's Pub & Eatery
13 Bridge St.. N., Hastings
(705) 696-3600
Thursday, August 14
7-11pm - Karaoke
Sunday, August 17
1-3pm - Steph Morris
McThirsty's Pint
166 Charlotte St., Peterborough
(705) 743-2220
Friday, August 15
9pm-1am - Jacob Henley
Saturday, August 16
9pm-1am - Cale Crowe
Sunday, August 17
8pm - Karaoke and open mic
Tuesday, August 19
8pm - Joanna & Danny Bronson
Wednesday, August 20
8pm - Kevin Foster
Advertisement - content continues below
The Mill Restaurant and Pub
990 Ontario St., Cobourg
(905) 377-8177
Thursday, August 14
6-9pm - Midnight Crossing
Muddy's Pit BBQ
3247 County Rd. 2, Keene
(705) 295-1255
Sunday, August 17
3-6pm - Big Bad Jug Band
The Muse Gallery & Cafe
23 Bridge St., Bancroft
613-332-1573
Saturday, August 16
6-8pm - Eric Weiner (PWYC)
Pig's Ear Tavern
144 Brock St., Peterborough
(705) 745-7255
Friday, August 15
8pm - Peterborough Folk Festival presents B.A. Johnston w/ The Stavely Project ($5 at door)
Saturday, August 16
8pm - Peterborough Folk Festival presents The Silver Hearts ($5 at door)
Tuesday, August 19
9pm - Open stage
Wednesday, August 20
9pm - Karaoinke
Puck' N Pint Sports Pub
871 Chemong Rd., Peterborough
(705) 741-1078
Friday, August 15
7pm - Karaoke w/ Ian Clement
Saturday, August 16
8pm - Brian Black
Rolling Grape Vineyard
260 County Rd 2, Bailieboro
705-991-5876
Thursday, August 14
5:30-8:30pm - Sean Jamieson
Sunday, August 17
2-5pm - Mike Tremblett
Royal Crown Pub & Grill
4 King St. E., Colborne
905-355-1900
Saturday, August 16
8pm - DJ Mary (no cover)
Scenery Drive Restaurant
6193 County Road 45, Baltimore
905-349-2217
Saturday, August 16
5-7:30pm - Mike Tremblay
The Social Pub
295 George St. N., Peterborough
705-874-6724
Saturday, August 16
1-4pm - PMBA presents Al Black & The Steady Band w/ Melissa Payne and Maddy Hope & Parker Farris (no cover, donations appreciated)
Springville Tap n' Grill
2714 Brown Line, Peterborough
(705) 876-9994
Friday, August 15
7pm - Karaoke Party
Tap & Tonic Pub & Bistro - Campbellford
18-22 Bridge St. W., Campbellford
(705) 947-2333
Thursday, August 14
7-10pm - Justin Cooper
Tap & Tonic Pub & Bistro - Marmora
16 Forsyth St., Marmora
613-666-9767
Thursday, August 14
7-10pm - Matt Marcuz
TheBack40 Smoke House
217 Fairbairn Rd., Bobcaygeon
705-928-0270
Thursday, August 14
6-9pm - Open mic
The Thirsty Goose
63 Walton St., Port Hope
Thursday, August 14
8:30-10pm - Road to Cultivate After Party ft Matt Bazinet
Friday, August 15
8pm-12am - Cale Crowe
Saturday, August 16
8pm-12am - Harry Hannah
Wild Blue Yonder Pub at Elmhirst's Resort
1045 Settlers Line, Keene
(705) 295-4591
Tuesday, August 19
7pm - Tuned Up Tuesdays ft Nicholas Campbell ($10 cover for show only, $39.95 for BBQ & show)
Coming Soon
Tuesday, August 26 7pm - Tuned Up Tuesdays ft Carling Stephen Band ($10 cover for show only, $39.95 for BBQ & show)
At a media event on August 14, 2025, the Rotary Club of Peterborough unveiled conceptual plans for a $1.5-million accessible playground at Riverview Park and Zoo in partnership with the zoo. Rotary has launched a community campaign called Project ROAR to raise funds for the new Rotary Accessible Playground, which is its latest legacy project. (Rendering: Basterfield & Associates Landscape Architects)
In partnership with the Riverview Park and Zoo, the Rotary Club of Peterborough has announced its next legacy project: a completely redesigned accessible playground at the zoo, along with a community campaign to raise $1.5 million for its construction.
The plans for the new Rotary Accessible Playground and the fundraising campaign were revealed at a media event at the Riverview Park and Zoo on Thursday (August 14).
Designed to allow people of all abilities and all ages to enjoy the space, the accessible playground would include widened pathways between play areas for people using strollers and mobility devices, new surfaces throughout the playground to make getting around easier, and shady spaces with sight lines to make it more comfortable for visitors and their caregivers.
Advertisement - content continues below
The connection between the Rotary Club of Peterborough and the Riverview Park and Zoo has a long history, as the zoo was founded in 1933 by Rotarian Ross Dobbin, who was president of Peterborough’s water utility at the time.
“(Ross Dobbin) attended a water works conference in Florida and was unexpectedly gifted two alligators,” said Rotary president Tony Grady. “That unusual beginning sparked a tradition. Over the next three decades, orphaned and injured animals found a home here, and what started as a modest collection grew into the beloved Riverview Park and Zoo we know today.”
The plans for the accessible playground were originally developed through community consultation in 2018. In 2024, Riverview Park and Zoo manager curator Cathy Mitchell presented the concept for the project to the Rotary Club of Peterborough.
Members of the Rotary Club of Peterborough gathered at the Riverview Park and Zoo on August 14, 2025 to announce the club’s latest legacy project: a $1.5-million accessible playground at Riverview Park and Zoo. The community campaign to raise funds for the project is called Project ROAR. (Photo courtesy of Rotary Club of Peterborough)
“These engineered playground plans were created to address the diverse needs of our community, bringing all ages and all abilities together for outdoor recreation and play,” Mitchell said. “Thanks to Rotary and this legacy commitment, we are able to move forward, remove barriers, and make it happen.”
Under the leadership of former president Betty Halman-Plumley, Rotary conducted a comprehensive outreach process to decide on club’s next legacy project, connecting with community members, local groups, and organizations to listen to their ideas, insights, needs, and possible projects.
“Rotary is thrilled to take the lead in making this playground accessible because we believe everyone and every child deserves a place to play, learn, and grow — regardless of ability,” Halman-Plumley said. “This project reflects our commitment to inclusion, community service, and building spaces where everyone feels welcome.”
Advertisement - content continues below
The community campaign to raise $1.5 million for the Rotary Accessible Playground is called Project ROAR, with the Rotary Club of Peterborough encouraging people to make donations at peterboroughrotary.ca/page/rotary-accessible-playground.
Halman-Plumley said Rotary will match all donations to a maximum of $125,000 this year.
In addition to donating directly to Project ROAR, members of the community can visit Rotary’s website and the Hatch Café at Riverview Park and Zoo to review the plans and designs and share ideas for improvements. People can also support the project by volunteering for on-site tours, fundraising events and special events, or providing in-kind contributions such as writing grant applications.
“Together with the Riverview Park and Zoo we are building more than just a play space — we’re building a stronger, more inclusive community for families to thrive,” Halman-Plumley said.
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.
