One of Canada’s most recognizable alternative rock bands is set to return to the Peterborough Musicfest stage this week, bringing decades of acclaimed music to audiences at Del Crary Park. Crash Test Dummies will headline the free outdoor concert on Wednesday, August 5, continuing the festival’s 39th season with an evening that also features emerging local talent, youth music programming and community activities.
The concert is expected to attract a large audience, with organizers encouraging attendees to arrive early to take advantage of the full schedule of performances and interactive events taking place throughout the waterfront venue.
Crash Test Dummies Return to the Stage in Peterborough
Crash Test Dummies remain one of Canada’s most successful and distinctive rock acts, earning international recognition during the 1990s with their blend of alternative rock, folk influences and the unmistakable bass-baritone vocals of lead singer Brad Roberts.
The band achieved worldwide success with the multi-platinum album God Shuffled His Feet, producing hit singles including Mmm Mmm Mmm Mmm, Superman’s Song, Afternoons & Coffeespoons and The Ballad of Peter Pumpkinhead.
Their commercial success earned the group three Grammy Award nominations and a JUNO Award, helping establish them as one of Canada’s best-known musical exports during the decade.
After stepping away from touring for approximately 20 years, Crash Test Dummies reunited in 2018 and have since returned to stages across Canada, the United States and Europe, reconnecting with longtime fans while introducing their music to new audiences.
The band is scheduled to perform at 8:00 p.m. at Del Crary Park.
Opening Performance Showcases Emerging Canadian Talent
Jeff Biggar Opens the Evening
Before the main performance, Port Hope-based singer and guitarist Jeff Biggar will take the Future Sound Series presented by Cogeco side stage beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Known for his versatile guitar work and reinterpretations of familiar songs, Biggar draws inspiration from artists including Julian Lage, Lyle Brewer and John Mayer. His performance is expected to provide an acoustic opening to the evening before the headline concert begins.
The Future Sound Series continues to provide a platform for emerging Canadian musicians while complementing Peterborough Musicfest’s programming of nationally recognized performers.
First Note Program Returns After Successful Debut
Interactive Music Experience for Young Participants
The evening will also feature the return of First Note, an interactive music program aimed at children and youth.
Running from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the free initiative allows young participants to explore a variety of musical instruments in a hands-on environment without requiring prior musical experience or registration.
Following its debut earlier in the festival season, organizers say the program received strong community support.
“The response to First Note’s debut was incredibly encouraging,” says Peterborough Musicfest Executive Director Tracey Randall. “Children and youth were eager to pick up the instruments, try something new and make music. Seeing so many young people join in showed us how much interest there is in this kind of hands-on experience, and we can’t wait to welcome even more participants on Wednesday.”
First Note is supported by the Peterborough Foundation, while Long & McQuade Musical Instruments has provided the instruments used during the program.
Community Activities Planned Throughout the Evening
Beyond the live performances, festival attendees will have access to a range of interactive activities across Del Crary Park.
Visitors can stop by the Peterborough Musicfest merchandise booth, participate in the Challenge of the Day through the Peterborough Musicfest mobile app by scanning QR codes placed throughout the venue and enter contests for prizes.
The festival’s popular 50/50 draw is scheduled for 9:00 p.m., giving concertgoers another opportunity to participate while supporting the long-running community event.
Free Admission Continues to Drive Community Engagement
Peterborough Musicfest remains one of Canada’s largest free-admission outdoor concert series, made possible through the support of sponsors, donors and community partners.
By combining nationally recognized performers such as Crash Test Dummies with local artists and educational programming like First Note, the festival continues to strengthen its role as both a cultural attraction and a community gathering place.
As the 39th season continues, Wednesday’s concert is expected to draw music fans from across the region, celebrating Canadian talent while reinforcing Peterborough Musicfest’s longstanding commitment to making live music accessible to audiences of all ages.