Recreation, Parks and Cultural Services Newsletter
September and October
Welcome to the September & October Edition of the Recreation, Parks and Cultural Services Newsletter!
Fall brings a fresh opportunity to get active, try something new, connect with your community, and enjoy everything Peterborough has to offer. From recreation and sports to arts, culture, aquatics, and family-friendly programs, there’s something for everyone to discover this season.
Get moving with fitness classes, swimming, sports, drop-in programs, and recreation opportunities at the Peterborough Sport & Wellness Centre and facilities across the city. Looking for something creative or inspiring? Explore exhibitions, programs, and activities at the Art Gallery of Peterborough, discover local history and hands-on experiences at the Peterborough Museum & Archives, or enjoy family-friendly programming and seasonal experiences at Riverview Park & Zoo.
Whether you’re getting back into a regular routine, looking for a new activity, or finding ways to spend time together as a family, fall is a great time to get involved and make the most of your community.
Inside this newsletter, you’ll find information on registration, memberships, facility hours, community events, camps, cultural programs, sports, aquatics, recreation opportunities, and much more to help you make the most of the season.
In this Newsletter:
- Facility Holiday Hours
- Facility Maintenance & Closures
- Membership and Discount Opportunities
- Registration Dates
- Facility Booking
- Community Events
- Peterborough Memorial Centre - Upcoming Events
- Art Gallery of Peterborough
- Riverview Park & Zoo
- Aquatics
- Child and Family
- Skate
- Peterborough Museum and Archives
Facility Holiday Hours
|
Facility |
September 7, 2026 |
October 12, 2026 |
|
Art Gallery of Peterborough |
Closed |
Closed |
|
Facility Booking Office |
Closed |
Closed |
|
Doane Grant Thornton Box Office |
Closed |
Closed |
|
Healthy Planet Arena |
Closed |
Closed |
|
Kinsmen Civic Centre Arena |
Closed |
Closed |
|
McDonnel Street Community Centre |
Closed |
Closed |
|
Miskin Law Community Complex |
6 a.m. to 2 p.m. |
6 a.m. to 2 p.m. |
|
Peterborough Museum and Archives |
12:00 p.m. to 5 p.m. |
12:00 p.m. to 5 p.m. |
|
Peterborough Memorial Centre |
Closed |
Closed |
|
Peterborough Naval Memorial Park |
Closed |
Closed |
|
Peterborough Sport & Wellness Centre |
6 a.m. to 2 p.m. |
6 a.m. to 2 p.m. |
|
Peterborough Visitor Centre at the Lift Lock |
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. |
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. |
|
Riverview Park & Zoo |
9 a.m. to 8 p.m. |
9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. |
Peterborough Sport & Wellness Centre Facility Maintenance and Closures
- Fitness Floor & Aerobic Studio Closure: Friday, September 4
- Full Facility Closure: September 5 and 6
- Aquatic Centre Closure: September 5 to 20 reopening September 21
Please plan your visits accordingly and watch for updates regarding alternative program options during these closure periods.
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.
Subsidies
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
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.
| Program | Registration Opens |
| Art Gallery Fall Programs |
Open now!
|
|
Fall Recreation & Aquatics Programs – Wellness Centre Members |
Tuesday, September 1 at 7 a.m. |
|
All Recreation, Parks and Cultural Services Fall Programs – Public Registration |
Wednesday, September 2 at 7 a.m. |
Please note that September 2 public registration for Fall Recreation and Aquatics registration includes programs offered through Recreation, Parks and Cultural Services at the Peterborough Sport & Wellness Centre, Peterborough Museum & Archives, and Riverview Park & Zoo.
Facility Booking
Recreation and Parks Services offer a number of meeting rooms, multipurpose rooms, banquet halls, ice, floor, field and court rentals at its many facilities. For more information, rates and locations please visit our website at Facility Booking and Permitting.
Outdoor Sport:
The City permits the artificial turf fields at Fleming College, Holy Cross and Thomas A Secondary School.
Please visit our online turf availability for dates and times.
To book a diamond, field (including artificial turf) or court, please fill out the sport facility request form.
Please note these important dates:
Washroom facilities will begin closing by Thanksgiving weekend and portable washrooms will be removed as of Oct 31st.
The beach volleyball courts, tennis courts and Pickleball courts will close by Oct 31 regardless of weather conditions.
Artificial turf fields will close by November 30th.
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.
The fall winter season starts September 8th and runs until March 2027. There are two ice pads at Miskin Law Community Complex, Healthy Planet Arena and the Kinsmen Civic Centre. The Peterborough Memorial Centre has one ice pad.
General availability for 2026-27 Fall/Winter ice season opens at the end of August.
Community Events
Every Child Matters at Healthy Planet 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Wednesday September 30, 2026. The event will include a Strawberry Ceremony , traditional Big Drum and hand drummers, Jingle and traditional dancers, and community information booths. Lunch will also be provided for our guests.
For a full list of events please look at our Community Events Calendar.
Elevate Peterborough
Are you planning an event or festival that brings visitors to Peterborough? Elevate Peterborough is a program that aims to enhance event experiences that encourage overnight stays, drive economic impact, and build the city’s profile as a premier tourism destination. Peterborough Tourism, the City’s tourism service delivery and marketing program, is now accepting applications from event and festival organizers. The Elevate Peterborough pilot program will run for the remainder of 2026, and applications will be accepted on a rolling basis for upcoming events. Applications must be submitted 120 days prior to the event's start date. Information about the program, eligibility, criteria, and guidelines can be found at ptbotourism.ca/elevate.
Education Programs:
Whether you're returning to the studio or joining us for the first time, our thoughtfully designed programs invite you to learn new techniques, develop your practice, and create alongside a welcoming community. From children discovering art for the first time to adults looking to deepen their creative practice, our fall lineup offers inspiring opportunities for artists of all ages and experience levels. Explore a wide variety of media and techniques, from painting and drawing to sculpture and stop-motion animation, and everything in between.
Visit agp.on.ca/learn/ to find out more!
Become an AGP Tier 3 Member and receive a 10% discount on adult and children’s programs.
Current Exhibitions:
Lyn Carter: The Pinks July 11 – October 4, 2026
An immersive exhibition of sculpture, animation, and sound that brings together whimsical characters to consider themes of identity, connection, and what it means to be human. Organized and circulated by the Woodstock Art Gallery.
All of your secrets are safe here with me
Works from the Youth Art Mentorship Program June 27 – October 4, 2026.
Over the past four months, artists Xai Chamberlain, Emilie Kenny, Wilhem Hirschmann, Nahdia R, and Dhanu Wegapitiya have been developing new work up in the AGP studio. Each artist has explored their own creative process, bringing forward perspectives shaped by their lived experiences.
42nd Annual KAST Selections Exhibition July 11 – October 4, 2026
This exhibition features one work from each of this year’s participating Kawartha Autumn Studio Tour artists.
Riverview Park & Zoo
With 55 acres of urban forest, parks and trails, 25 animal habitats, and Peterborough’s largest playground, there’s lots to see, do and learn!
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.
Exhibits, workshops, educational programs, and camps are all offered at the Riverview Park and Zoo.
Zoo Fall hours: Tuesday after Labour Day to Thanksgiving Monday
- Zoo: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily
- Guest Services: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., weekends only
- Hatch Coffee Shop: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., weekends only
- Splash Pad: closed
- Miniature Train Ride: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., weekends only
Riverview Park & Zoo Fun Run & Walk
The Riverview Park & Zoo Fun Run! Join us on Saturday, September 26th for a family-friendly race that supports a fantastic cause. This year, all funds raised will go toward creating a fully accessible playground at the zoo, so every child can enjoy the fun.
Choose your pace and your distance - 1km or 5km, walk or run - and don’t forget to wear your best animal costume! Whether you come as a lion, lemur, or lovebird, there are prizes for best costumes and plenty of smiles along the way.
- Date: Saturday, September 26, 2026
- Distances: 1km & 5km walk/run
- Fundraising Goal: A fully accessible playground at Riverview Park & Zoo
- Costume Contest: Dress up as your favourite feathered or furry friend! Run for a cause and sign up today!
Aquatics
Peterborough Recreation offers courses for those who are interested in enhancing their water safety knowledge and First Aid skills, as well as those looking to become a qualified lifeguard or swim instructor. Learn teamwork and leadership skills and boost your self-confidence and communication skills for future careers. For more information and/or to register for swimming lessons, visit peterborough.ca/swim
Drop-In Swimming
Drop-In swimming is included in your PSWC membership or purchase a drop–in pass to participate in a variety of swims for all abilities and ages. Bring the family to a Wellness Centre Fun Swim equipped with water features and a water slide.
Aqua Fitness
Aqua Fitness is a multi-level class that takes place in the shallow and/or deep water and is great for everyone. A safe and effective fitness program led by qualified fitness instructors. Exercises are low impact, and participants do not need to know how to swim, just need to be comfortable in chest-deep water.
Child & Family Fall Programs for Varying Ages
Find the programs that are right for your family
- Dance
- Jiu Jitsu
- Crafting & Science
- Stop N Play
- Judo
- Gym & Swim
- Fall Specialty – Halloween Parties, Themed Events and More!
Book Your Party Package with us!
Party Packages are offered in a variety of themes, choose from:
- Classic
- Swim
- Art
- Gymnasium
- Skate
- Or customize!
Afterschool Programs
Supervised after-school time engages school-aged youth to move, play, create, and have fun! Available on scheduled weekdays at community facilities, this amazing play program provides after-school care, an opportunity to be active, obtain homework support, make friends, and try something new. Pre-booking afternoons is required. Swim and gym time at the Wellness Centre, tag games and relays at Healthy Planet, pickleball and games at McDonnell Street Community Centre...join us and get moving. A nutritious snack is provided to registrants daily. For further information and details, please contact Recreation, Parks & Cultural Services Division Program Coordinator - Child & Family, Candace Buchanan at cbuchanan@peterborough.ca.
Day Camps
Peterborough Recreation, Parks and Cultural Services offers a variety of recreational camps including PA Day camps, holiday camps and March Break camps. As a HIGH FIVE® registered organization, our day camp programs are of the highest recognized levels of quality and safety.
Register for P.A. Day, Holiday and March Break Camps
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.
- Date: Monday, October 26, 2026
- Course Code: 00089889
Tai Chi
Mondays, September 14 to November 16
6-7 p.m.
McDonnel Street Community Centre (577 McDonnel Street)
Course ID: 00089296
Instructed by: George Kerr
Tai Chi is a gentle, low-impact form of exercise that originated in China as a martial art. Today, it is widely practiced for its health benefits and involves a series of slow, flowing movements coordinated with deep breathing and mindful focus.
Creative Wellness Studio
2.5 hour art-making workshops
2 options each month at different days and times
The Adult Leisure Program and the Art Gallery of Peterborough are teaming up to bring accessible art experiences to the McDonnel Street Community Centre! Join us for creative beginner sessions that provide simple, accessible introductions to artmaking in a welcoming and supportive environment. Creative activities can offer a meaningful way to slow down, support wellbeing, and foster connection with others in our community. These sessions are suitable for participants of all experience levels, and no previous art-making experience is required. All required materials will be supplied.
- September: Intro to Weaving
- October: Colourful Self-Portraits
- November: Embroidery Basics
Living and Aging Well: Powerful Tools for Caregivers
Thursdays, September 24 to October 29
10:30 a.m. To 12:00 noon
McDonnel Street Community Centre (577 McDonnel Street)
Course ID: 00086072
Caring for a family member or friend with a chronic condition can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining. This free six-week workshop is a highly effective, evidence-based, self-care educational program for family caregivers to build the skills caregivers need to take better care of themselves as they provide care for others. Powerful Tools for Caregivers is offered in two versions: one for adults caring for adults and the other version for adults caring for children with special physical and behavioral needs. We suggest caregivers attend all six sessions of the workshop, where possible. This workshop series is facilitated by Self-Management Program, Central East which is one of 14 programs across the Province of Ontario. Funding for this program is provided by the government of Ontario.
Skate
Instructional Ice-Skating Programs
Did you know Peterborough Recreation has registered Instructional Skating Programs year-round? We offer programs such as Skating Skills for Hockey, Learn to Skate programs for Adults and Children, as well as Parent and Tot instruction, too.
Drop-In Skating & Hockey Programs
We also offer a variety of weekly drop-in skating programs, including all-ages public skates, 50+ skates, as well as pay-as-you-play shinny programs for youth, women and adults 18+. All-ages public skates are also offered for Holidays and PA Days, too.
Registered Hockey Programs
Plenty of options are available to sign up for a registered Recreational Hockey Program this fall! We offer Family Stick & Puck, Adult Recreational Hockey, and, new this fall, we offer registered Youth and 65+ Adult Shinny programs at the Kinsmen Civic Center. Advanced registration is required.
Peterborough Museum & Archives
Come explore your local Museum this summer! Discover the stories, learn something new and appreciate the treasures that preserve our shared heritage. While here, why not enjoy the outdoors too? Plan a visit to the playground, hike the beautiful trails and check out the scenic look out! We are open 7 days a week, admission is always by donation, and free on-site parking is available. Visitors can also explore our curated gift shop, with access to the Archives available by appointment.
Last chance to see “Lost Liberties: The War Measures Act” on display until 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. We gratefully acknowledge the support of the Department of Canadian Heritage's Museums Assistance Program – Exhibition Circulation Fund.
Welcome Fleming Students! - September 9
We're delighted to welcome the 2026/27 class of Fleming College's Museum Management and Curatorship program. As Canada's only museum-based college program of its kind, we're excited to have another talented group of students learning, researching, and contributing at the Museum throughout the academic year.
NEW Exhibition Opens – A Life's Work on Ice: Preserving the Flooded F.L. Roy Film Collection - September 19
Opening Saturday, September 19, "A Life's Work on Ice: Preserving the Flooded F.L. Roy Film Collection" explores the remarkable restoration of the historic F.L. Roy film collection and offers visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the preservation process, alongside highlights from these extraordinary moving images documenting Peterborough's past.
PMA: Bringing TIFF to You Returns – Tickets on Sale September 21
Mark your calendars! Tickets for the Fall 2026 season of PMA: Bringing TIFF to You (BTTY) go on sale on Monday, September 21. Don't miss your chance to enjoy another outstanding lineup of acclaimed Canadian and international films, right here in Peterborough at Galaxy Cinemas. Stay tuned for the full season announcement and secure your seats early.
Toddler Tuesday Returns – September 23
Toddler Tuesday is coming back this fall! Join us once again for Tuesday morning play, exploration, and fun in the Museum galleries. Special thanks to our Kiwanis Club of Scott’s Plains partner for supporting this popular family program.
Roy Studio Film Gala - October 8 - 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Celebrate the restoration of the Roy Studio film collection at a special gala premiere presented by CIBC Private Wealth Schiller Investment Group on Thursday, October 8, at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre. Guests will enjoy an exclusive first look at newly restored archival films, learn about the innovative preservation project, and help support ongoing restoration of the Museum's motion picture collection. Tickets are available starting Tuesday, August 25, through the Market Hall Box Office or online https://www.markethall.org/
Tickets are $40, plus applicable fees
“Spook-a-rama!” PA Day Camp – October 26
Enter if you dare, for a spooktacular scare as we celebrate all things Halloween! From hair raising experiments to ghoulish games and art, this day is bound to be a spooky good time. Led by trained educators, our Pa Day Camps are fun, engaging, and designed for children aged 4 to 11 years old. Register today!