Recreation, Parks and Cultural Services Newsletter
May and June
Welcome to the May - June Edition of the Recreation, Parks and Cultural Services Newsletter!
Sunshine, fresh air, and longer evenings are here—May and June are the perfect time to get outside, try something new, and connect with your community.
May is Museum Month
Celebrate the stories that shape our community by visiting the Peterborough Museum & Archives. Enjoy accessible exhibits, a curated gift shop, and free parking—admission is by donation.
National Youth Week (May 1–7)
Celebrate the contributions of young people and their active role in communities across Canada. It’s a nationwide movement driven by local events and initiatives.
June is Recreation and Parks Month
With the theme “Every Journey Belongs,” this month highlights the importance of inclusive spaces for all. Watch for the JRPM Calendar, featuring activities for all ages and abilities.
Stay active with fitness memberships, drop-in sports, or group classes, cool off with swimming lessons and family swims, or enjoy our parks and green spaces as they come alive.
Looking for something creative? Visit the Art Gallery, explore the Museum, or take part in a workshop or cultural event celebrating our community.
Inside this newsletter, you’ll find everything happening throughout May and June to help you stay active, inspired, and make the most of the season.
In this Newsletter:
Facility Holiday Hours
|
Facility |
May 18, 2026 |
|
Art Gallery of Peterborough |
Closed |
|
Facility Booking Office |
Closed |
|
Doane Grant Thornton Box Office |
Closed |
|
Healthy Planet Arena |
Closed |
|
Kinsmen Civic Centre Arena |
Closed |
|
McDonnel Street Community Centre |
Closed |
|
Miskin Law Community Complex |
6 a.m. to 2 p.m. |
|
Peterborough Museum and Archives |
12:00 p.m. to 5 p.m. |
|
Peterborough Memorial Centre |
Closed |
|
Peterborough Naval Memorial Park |
Closed |
|
Peterborough Sport & Wellness Centre |
6 a.m. to 2 p.m. |
|
Riverview Park & Zoo |
8:30 a.m. to dusk |
Peterborough Sport & Wellness Centre Facility Reminder:
Summer Hours (June 29 to September 1):
Monday to Sunday: 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Find Your Fit (15+)
Enjoy unlimited access to the fitness centre, drop-in sports, swims, and group fitness classes—plus early registration and select program discounts. Memberships start at just $27.25/month, taxes not included. Options are available for youth, adults, and older adults—including free memberships for ages 85+, some exclusions apply.
Bring the Whole Family
Family memberships offer great value with access to fitness (ages 12+), group classes, and drop-in activities, plus discounts on camps and programs. Options start at $75.50/month, taxes not included.
For Kids (Ages 3-14)
Keep children active and engaged with access to drop-in programs and recreational activities, plus early registration perks—all for $24.25/month, no tax; some exclusions apply.
Subsidy Memberships
We’re committed to making recreation accessible for everyone. Subsidies are available for eligible residents based on household income.
- Membership Subsidy: Reduced rates for qualifying individuals and families
- Program Subsidy: Up to $100–$200 per person annually for recreation programs
- Please see our website for Subsidy Information
Fitness
Registration is open and on-going
Recreation, Parks & Cultural Services continues to offer a variety of drop-in classes at the Peterborough Sport & Wellness Centre and many other City facilities. Did you know that you don't have to be a member of the Wellness Centre to participate? Anyone can choose to register into a class that best meets their unique needs. Types of classes include:
- HIIT & Strength Conditioning
- Yoga
- Cardio Endurance
- Combo & Gentle Aqua Fitness
- Spin Circuit & more!
Check out one of our many specialty group fitness programs. Register today for Line Dancing, Zumba, Qigong or Hatha Yoga. Caregivers, stay social with one of our many Baby and Me programs.
Did you know the City of Peterborough offers therapeutic programs such as TIME (Together in Movement and Exercise), Chair Fitness, Gentle Aqua Fitness. Group fitness programs are offered for all levels, abilities and stages of rehabilitation. One-on-one training is also available.
Personal Training
Not sure where to start with reaching your fitness goals? Let one of our certified, friendly personal trainers develop a program for you and get you started in a supported and fun environment. Contact us today.
Facility Booking
Recreation, Parks and Cultural Services offer a number of meeting rooms, multipurpose rooms, banquet halls, ice, floor, field and court rentals at it's many facilities!
Indoor Sport:
Please visit our online ice and floor availability for dates and times. To submit your sport request, please fill out the sport facility request form.
There are two ice pads at Miskin Law Community Complex for the spring and summer. Healthy Planet Arena and the Kinsmen Civic Centre are floor pads. You can view availability with the link above.
Outdoor Sport:
Turf fields are open, weather permitting. Outdoor facilities and washrooms will open by the May long weekend.
Please note fall sports league requests are due August 1st.
Private Events:
Planning a meeting, celebration, or special gathering? Our meeting rooms & halls available for private events. Submit a request by filling out our Private Event Rental Request Form.
Discover our new Miskin Law Community Complex Multi-Purpose Rooms—a large, bright space fully equipped with brand-new audiovisual equipment. View rates and details.
Peterborough Memorial Centre Upcoming Events
The Great Canadian Cheese Festival, June 13 to 14, 2026
The reinvented Great Canadian Cheese Festival (GCCF), Canada’s most anticipated celebration of artisan cheese and Canadian food culture, is returning for its second year - this time in Peterborough, Ontario. Sample small batch dairy, discover artisan food and drink from breweries, cideries, wineries, bakers, and craft producers, and enjoy unlimited access to a curated lineup of flavours. Join us for a delicious journey that brings together the artistry, passion, and people shaping Canada’s culinary landscape. Festival ticket prices vary from $35 to $115 plus taxes, fees, and charges (all ticket prices are subject to applicable fees and taxes. Prices are subject to change).
Jimmy Carr: Laughs Funny, October 25, 2026
Outback Presents and Chambers Touring are proud to announce that global comedy superstar Jimmy Carr is returning to Canada with his biggest national tour ever. The brand-new show, Jimmy Carr: Laughs Funny, will hit an unprecedented 31 cities across the country, a first for an international comedian. The tour will play coast to coast, kicking off in Victoria on September 16, 2026 and wrapping up in St. John’s on November 22, 2026. Known worldwide for his lightning-quick wit, dark one-liners and unmistakable laugh, Jimmy Carr remains one of the most successful and best-selling comedians on the planet. A master of razor-sharp humour, he has toured to over 40 countries, sold millions of tickets, and continues to be one of the most streamed stand-ups of the last decade. His most recent tour, Terribly Funny 2.0, surpassed one million tickets worldwide and saw him perform 293 shows across 145 cities in a single year—cementing his reputation as one of the hardest-working acts in comedy. Prices range from $45.75* to $75.75 (all ticket prices are subject to applicable fees and taxes. Prices are subject to change).
Peterborough Century 21 Lakers Season Tickets
The Peterborough Century 21 Lakers are thrilled to announce that season tickets for the 2026 Major Series Lacrosse season! The 2026 campaign features the return of the full 18-game MSL schedule, with the Lakers set to host nine home games at the Peterborough Memorial Centre. The home opener is scheduled for Thursday, May 21, marking the start of another thrilling summer of Lakers lacrosse. If you require an accessible seat, please contact the Box Office at 705-743-3561.
Peterborough Petes Season Tickets
2026 to 2027 Peterborough Petes Season Ticket Packages are now available to purchase. To see pricing and more information visit the Peterborough Petes website. If you require an accessible seat, please contact the Box Office at 705-743-3561.
Ages: 4 to 6 and 7 to 11
During the months of July and August we offer weekly camps that explore a wide variety of media and techniques, from painting and drawing to sculpture and stop-motion animation, and everything in between!
Youth Volunteer Program: Summer Art Camp, AGP Studio Attendant
Join our Youth Volunteer Team to support our Summer Art Camps. As a youth volunteer, you’ll gain leadership experience in a creative and fun environment, make new friends, and some art, too!
We are accepting volunteer applications from May 1 to June 14, 2026.
Portfolio Prep for Young Artists Ages 11 to 14
Register for Portfolio Prep for Young Artists
Weekly: Thursdays, April 30 to May 21
This four-week course is designed for students who are looking to develop a portfolio of work and prepare for a secondary school art program, such as the Peterborough Integrated Arts Program at Thomas A. Stewart Secondary School. Learn directly from practicing artists in our community to create a standout portfolio! Registration required.
Registration Programs: Child & Adult
AGP Members Tier 3 and up receive a 10% discount on adult and child programs.
NEW: Art Together Ages 2 to 5 + caregiver
- May 10: Flowerpot Painting, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
- June 14: Clay Critter Creations, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Art Start! Ages 4 to 6
- March 28: Collage Creatures, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- April 25: My First Self Portrait, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Saturday Art Club Ages 7 to 11
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June 20: Comic Books & Zines, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
PA Day Programs Ages 8 to 12
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June 5: Stop-Motion Animation Basics, 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Adult Art Camp Ages 18+
- May 28: Abstract Watercolours, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- June 18: Monoprinting, 6:00 p.m.to 8:00 p.m.
Special Events & Community Programs:
The following special events and community programs are free to attend and open to the public. No registration is required. All are welcome.
Family Sunday at the Art Gallery of Peterborough
Family Sunday runs on the first Sunday of each month and offers fun, free, and seasonally themed art making activities, suitable for all ages.
- May 3: drop in from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- June 7: drop in from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Exhibitions - Current & Upcoming:
See what’s on view at the gallery by visiting the AGP Website at: agp.on.ca/whats-on/
JoEllen Brydon | Elizabeth Thompson Advises Here until June 28, 2026
In this exhibition, JoEllen Brydon draws from the archive of her mother, Jean Armstrong Brydon, who wrote as “Elizabeth Thompson” for The Globe and Mail from 1966 to 1978. A thoughtful and progressive voice, Jean’s columns captured deeply personal stories within a broader moment of social change, inviting readers into reflection and dialogue. Through painting and multimedia installation, Brydon revisits these materials to explore the complexity of lived experience and the narratives we construct, both for others and for ourselves.
Stay connected and subscribe to the AGP’s monthly e-newsletter! The gallery sends a newsletter each month directly to your inbox, so you’re always up-to-date with what’s happening at the gallery. Sign up at: agp.on.ca/connect/e-newsletter/
The Art Gallery of Peterborough is open Wednesday to Sunday, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission is free.
Riverview Park & Zoo
Registration is open and on-going
Did you know Riverview Park and Zoo is open 365 days a year from 8:30 a.m. to dusk. Riverview Park and Zoo is located at 1300 Water Street North in Peterborough, Ontario, along the Otonabee River. The main entrance is at the intersection of Water Street and Carnegie Avenue and is accessible by both car and public transit. Visit the Riverview Park & Zoo Website!
Workshop: Safety First
Safety First: Presented by Canadian Abilities Foundation
- Free to attend, registration required
- Thursday, May 21, 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
- Course Code: 81829 to register or register online
- This workshop aims to improve the quality of life for seniors by promoting emergency preparedness, encouraging home safety, and educating about fall prevention tactics. This work has been funded by the Ontario government’s Seniors Community Grants and is presented by the Canadian Abilities Foundation
Drop-In Table Tennis IS BACK!
NEW LOCATION: Miskin Law Community Complex (271 Lansdowne Street W) Just off the walking track in the southwest corner (no longer in the Multi-Purpose Room)
Date: Tuesdays & Thursdays
Time: 12:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Serve up some fun with Drop-In Table Tennis! Whether you’re working on your spin or just looking for a friendly match, all skill levels are welcome.
A drop-in fee of $3.50 is payable at the customer service desk. You’ll receive a receipt as proof of payment — that’s your ticket to play! Space is limited with two tables available. Once at capacity, we encourage shared use of tables to ensure everyone has equal opportunity to participate. Need gear? Paddles and balls are available at the front desk for your convenience.
Dart League - Adult Mixed
Date: Mondays, through to May 25
Time: 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Cost: $72.54 - late registrations are prorated!
Course Code: 79355 or click here to register
Location: 577 McDonnel Street - lower Games Room
Test your precision and aim in friendly competition with fellow Darts enthusiasts at the McDonnel St Community Centre. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a novice, our league welcomes all skill levels. Enjoy camaraderie, improve your game, and aim for bullseyes in a fun and welcoming atmosphere. Registration is prorated if you are late to join, so you don't have to pay for any missed nights of league play. Try out our Adult Mixed League and let the games begin!
Aquatics
On Saturday’s from 4:15 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. we have added a Fun Swim so that you can have fun with your families and friends in the evening as well as cool off as the warmer weather approaches! Visit Drop-in Swimming for further information.
Summer Session Information and Registration:
Summer swimming lessons will be viewable on May 25.
Registration will take place online and in-person on the following days:
Member Registration: Saturday July 4 at 7 a.m. online.
Members are defined as those who currently pay for a monthly or annual membership to access programs and services at the Centre.
Public Registration: Sunday July 5 at 7 a.m. online.
Public registration includes all current swim lesson participants who are not paying for membership at the Centre.
Upcoming Leadership Courses:
Visit the following link for more details and to register for courses:
NEW! Aquatic Development & Leadership
Register for Aquatic Development & Leadership
You’ll build your swimming skills, improve your fitness, and learn lifesaving techniques and basic first aid through fun water activities and new challenges. This half-day program helps you grow more confident in the pool. You must be a Level 3 Swimmer who can swim 25 meters on your own. Bring your swimsuit, towel, water bottle, snacks, comfortable clothes, and running shoes each day. Located at the Peterborough Sport & Wellness Centre.
July 6 to 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Ages: 12 to 15. Course Code: 81586.
Child & Family
Child & Family Winter programming is wrapping up and Spring opportunities are set to go! Recreational activities, programs, and events for various ages including dance, judo, arts, gym & swim, birthday parties, jiu jitsu, science, preschool, and much more are available at a pro-rated fee for the remainder of the winter term and registration for spring will offer new options, and of course the same of what you love! For more information and to register for these great options for your household please visit Children and Family Programs.
PA Day Camps at the PSWC - Come for the fun, stay for the friends!
These day camps will keep you busy during the school holidays! We include games and activities, crafts, indoor and outdoor play, themes, a daily recreational swim, and much, much more. Children are required to bring indoor running shoes, a nut-sensitive lunch including snacks and a refillable water bottle, swim gear, as well as outdoor weather-appropriate clothing depending upon the season's climate during the week. These camp dates provide daily care between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.; structured programming occurs between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Ages: 4 to 11 years. Wellness Centre Member discounts are available!
- Date: June 5
- Course Code: 80481
Ninja Academy Judo
New! Specialty Ninja Academy ® Judo Classes for Competitive Athletes
- Ninja Academy Judo 12+ Shiai Competition Focus Class - This adult class will focus on Shiai Competition skills and development. Competitive leaders will bring their experience to provide adaptable strategy and judo practice.
- Ninja Academy Judo 12+ Specialized Kata-Newaza Development Class - This adult class is a specialized Kata-Newaza development clinic. Leaders will focus on Newaza strategy and techniques, and will place an emphasis on developing Kata form, for the purpose of meeting tournament and grading standards, improving broader judo form and technical skill for competition, and self-betterment and defense.
- Our successful Ninja Academy child and youth and adult programming will also continue this winter for ages 2 and up, commencing with our extremely popular Ninja Kids classes - these classes are designed to teach physical literacy and promote long term athlete development to children while building their safety, confidence, and respect for others. Ninja Academy then continues with classes for older children and youth and teach participants the authentic Japanese philosophy and practice of Judo, the most practiced martial art in the world.
- Discover all our judo programming with the remainder of our winter session ending in late March and join us Registration is ongoing! Classes are offered at the Peterborough Sport & Wellness Centre.
Summer Day Camps 2026 are Coming!!! Are You Registered?
The Recreation, Parks & Cultural Services Division's 2026 offerings of summer day camps and summer instructional sports camps will be shared via the next installment of our annual Camp Guide. Grab your copy or check it out online and review the numerous options of summer fun for your family. Summer will be here before you know it - ensure your family is set for fun and sun for summer, 2026. Remember to ask about payment installment plans, lunch programs, and membership discounts where applicable. Register online Today!
NEW! Junior Zookeepers Summer Day Camp
This is the ultimate week to connect with wildlife and nature! You’ll explore our amazing zoo and park, learn about animals, and enjoy fun creative activities. You’ll experience the excitement of day camp while going wild, discovering new things, and making great summer memories. Located at Riverview Park & Zoo.
Fee: $199.88
Ages: 7 to 11
- Monday to Friday July 6 to 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Course Code: 82012
- Monday to Friday July 13 to 17 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Course Code: 82013
- Monday to Friday July 20 to 24 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Course Code: 82014
- Monday to Friday July 27 to 31 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Course Code: 82015
- Monday to Friday Aug 10 to 14 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Course Code: 82016
- Monday to Friday Aug 17 to 21 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Course Code: 82017
- Monday to Friday Aug 24 to 28 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Course Code: 82018
NEW! NEW! NEW!
Don’t forget the Bondar Photography Challenge Camp & the Turtle Trek Camp programs at the Riverview Park & Zoo this summer for ages 7 to 11, these programs will connect you to nature in a whole new way! Register online Today!
Camp Guide PDF Link on website: View here today
Recreation Student Leadership
You’ll build your leadership and teamwork skills while learning what it’s like to help run a fun children’s camp. With full participation, you may earn volunteer opportunities and hours at the Peterborough Sport & Wellness Centre. After training and a strong performance, you can continue volunteering throughout the summer. No program July 1. Located at the Peterborough Sport & Wellness Centre.
June 29 to July 3 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Ages: 13 to 15 Course Code: 81527 Register online Today!
NEW! Aquatic Development & Leadership
You’ll build your swimming skills, improve your fitness, and learn lifesaving techniques and basic first aid through fun water activities and new challenges. This half-day program helps you grow more confident in the pool. You must be a Level 3 Swimmer who can swim 25 meters on your own. Bring your swimsuit, towel, water bottle, snacks, comfortable clothes, and running shoes each day. Located at the Peterborough Sport & Wellness Centre.
July 6 to 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Ages: 12 to 15 Course Code: 81586 Register online Today!
NEW! Junior Lifeguard Club
You’ll enjoy an exciting aquatic program where you improve your swimming and lifesaving skills while working toward your personal best. You’ll build leadership and teamwork as you prepare for future lifeguard training. Each day, bring your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, water bottle, lunch, snacks, and comfortable clothes, and meet at the Pavilion. Located at Beavermead Park and Waterfront.
July 27 to 31 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Ages: 12 to 15 Course Code: 81591 Register online Today!
Party Packages
Make your celebration stress free! The Recreation, Parks and Cultural Services Division offers a variety of party packages, available to fit all age groups and interests. With these great packages, you bring the food and the decorations, and we will bring the fun! Packages are perfect for birthday parties, family events, and special occasions. A variety of packages are offered at the Peterborough Sport & Wellness Centre and skate party packages are available at Miskin Law Community Complex as well. Book your party today. Call our customer service team at 705-742-0050 ext. 2201# or Book Online Today!
Dance for Youth
These recreational dance programs offer a wide range of opportunities for children and youth - try them all! Dance in your own groove from the start of each class to the end!
- Pre-Dance - Classes offered for children between the ages of 3 to 5 years, explore classes including Pre-Ballet, Pre-Hip Hop, and Pre-Dance Medley that includes content from all of our classes.
- Learn to Dance - Classes offered for children between the ages of 6 to 12 years, choose options like Jazz, Ballet, HipHop, and Dance Medley.
- Dance for Youth - Registration remains open for Winter classes schedule through to the end of March with pro-rated fees - watch for our new classes coming for the Spring term that runs from April through June!
Sport & Skate
Registration: Open and On-going
Did you know Peterborough Recreation offers skating programs year-round? Learn to Skate programs are available for varying ages at the Miskin Law Community Complex.
Skating and Hockey Instructional and Drop-in Program
Drop-in and instructional skating programs for all ages:
- Learn to Skate
- Adult Learn to Skate
- Parent and Tot Skating
- Private Skating Lessons
- Youth Shinny
- Stick and Puck
- 50+ Skate
- Pay-As-You-Play Shinny
Instructional Sport Programs
Outdoor pickleball registration opens May 4 at 9 a.m.
It’s a perfect time to learn a new skill or sport. Register for Learn to Play Pickleball or Level Up Pickleball and be ready for outdoor programs come spring. Did you know drop-in sports are available in the gymnasium at the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre. Check out the schedule today.
Try something new. Instructional programs for all ages:
- Tennis
- Learn to Play Pickleball
- Skills and Drills Pickleball
- Girls Try it Sports Program
- Girls Try it Fitness Program
- Instructional Badminton and Volleyball
May is Museum Month
Did you know that there are over 700 museums, galleries and heritage sites across Ontario? Come share in the wonder and delight of museums this month by visiting sites across the province, including your local museum, the Peterborough Museum & Archives! We are open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and weekends and statutory holidays from 12:00 p.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is by donation, the facility is fully accessible, and free on-site parking is available. Visitors can also explore our curated gift shop, with access to the Archives available by appointment.
“We Wear Many Hats” on display until June 14, 2026
Step into a fascinating exploration of how hats shape identity, belonging and social roles – all through the lens of Peterborough’s history. This unique exhibition was created in partnership with Fleming College’s Museum Management and Curatorship (MMC) students. Admission is by a suggested donation of $10 per group.
“Lost Liberties: The War Measures Act” on display June 20 to September 13, 2026
What happens when personal freedom comes into conflict with national security? Lost Liberties, a featured exhibition on loan from the Canadian Museum of History, explores this question and more, as it sheds new light on the enduring impact on The War Measures Act on Canada and its people.
PMA Camps and Programs during May, June, July and August, 2026
From summer adventures to P.A. Days and the occasional weekend program, our themed camps make school breaks something to look forward to. Each camp offers a fresh theme to spark curiosity and inspire young explorers. Led by trained educators, our programs are fun, engaging, and designed to support all child’s unique interests and needs. Upcoming program offerings include:
- Kids Only, Discovery After Dark, May 2: “Junior Curator”
- P.A. Day Camp, June 5: “Nature Detectives”
- P.A. Day Camp, June 26: “Sun, Fun & Discovery”
- Youth Leadership Program, June 29 to July 2
- Summer Discovery Camps, July 6 to August 21
Museum Educational Programs during May and June, 2026
Embark on a journey of exploration, discovery, and imagination as you connect with the past through our hands-on educational programs! Teachers and community groups can schedule their class to participate in an assortment of programs for all ages. Each program addresses specific Ontario Curriculum requirements and offers memorable learning opportunities.
Contact Us
City Hall
500 George St. N.
Peterborough, ON
K9H 3R9
Phone: 705-742-7777
Toll Free: 1-855-738-3755
Email Us