Free summer concert series to return to Del Crary Park from June through August
Peterborough Musicfest has unveiled the first two performances of its 39th season, with Canadian rock veteran Gowan and party band Dwayne Gretzky set to headline early dates at the long-running free-admission festival in Peterborough, Ontario.
The festival said Gowan will return to the Fred Anderson Stage for opening night on Saturday, June 27, marking his fourth appearance at the event. Dwayne Gretzky will follow on Wednesday, July 29, for what will be the group’s sixth performance at the festival. Both concerts will be held at Del Crary Park and will be free to attend.
Festival builds momentum for another summer of free live music
Peterborough Musicfest, which describes itself as Canada’s longest-running free admission music festival, runs from June 27 through Aug. 19, 2026, with performances scheduled every Wednesday and Saturday evening at 8 p.m.
Organizers said the early artist announcement is intended to build momentum ahead of the full summer lineup reveal in the coming weeks.
“This is just the starting point for what’s shaping up to be a strong 39th season,” says Tracey Randall, Executive Director of Peterborough Musicfest. “We’re focused on building a full summer experience—great live music, a vibrant park atmosphere, and reasons for people to come back week after week. There’s a lot more to come!”
Returning acts expected to draw strong crowds
Gowan, a fixture in Canadian rock music, is expected to deliver one of the festival’s marquee performances on opening night. Known for hits including “A Criminal Mind,” “Strange Animal,” and “Moonlight Desires,” the artist has become a recurring crowd favourite at the Peterborough event.
Festival organizers said his previous appearances have consistently drawn large audiences, citing his combination of strong vocals, theatrical stage presence and accomplished musicianship.
Dwayne Gretzky, billed by organizers as “Canada’s Greatest Party Band,” is also returning as a proven audience draw. The Toronto-based cover band has built a reputation for energetic live performances featuring a rotating setlist of more than 800 songs from the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s.
According to the festival, the band’s performances have become a signature part of the Musicfest experience, with audiences often filling Del Crary Park for large-scale singalongs and dance-heavy sets.
Broader festival programming to return in 2026
In addition to live performances, Peterborough Musicfest said several recurring festival features will return for the 2026 season, including on-site food vendors, its 50/50 draw, and the Future Sound Series presented by Cogeco.
The Future Sound Series is designed to spotlight emerging Canadian musicians and provide additional exposure for up-and-coming acts during the festival season.
Organizers said more artist announcements and programming details will be released over the coming weeks as the full 2026 schedule is finalized.
Economic and tourism impact remains key for Peterborough
Peterborough Musicfest attracts more than 100,000 attendees each summer to Del Crary Park, according to organizers, making it one of the region’s largest recurring cultural events.
The annual festival has become a significant driver of tourism and local economic activity during the summer months, drawing visitors to the city’s waterfront and supporting nearby restaurants, hotels and businesses.
With free admission continuing for all shows, organizers said sponsorship support remains critical to the festival’s operation and accessibility.
Peterborough Musicfest’s 39th season will run from June 27 to Aug. 19, 2026, with concerts scheduled every Wednesday and Saturday evening at Del Crary Park in Peterborough, Ontario.
Peterborough Musicfest 2026 Season Details
- Dates: June 27 – August 19, 2026
- Schedule: Every Wednesday and Saturday at 8 p.m.
- Location: Del Crary Park, Peterborough, Ontario
- Admission: Free
If you want, I can make it even more Reuters-style / wire-service polished if you’re submitting this to a newsroom or client.