Canadian Music Icon Set to Headline Peterborough Musicfest on August 8
PETERBOROUGH, ON — Canadian singer-songwriter and guitarist David Wilcox is set to return to the Peterborough Musicfest stage on Saturday, August 8, bringing decades of acclaimed musicianship and a catalogue of enduring hits to one of Ontario’s longest-running free summer concert series.
The performance, scheduled for 8 p.m. on the Fred Anderson Stage at Del Crary Park, marks Wilcox’s latest appearance at the festival and continues Musicfest’s tradition of showcasing celebrated Canadian artists. Known for blending blues, rock, country, ragtime and roots music, Wilcox remains one of Canada’s most recognizable live performers, with a career spanning several decades.
David Wilcox’s Career Continues to Resonate with Canadian Audiences
Wilcox has built a loyal fan base through songs that have become staples of Canadian music, including Riverboat Fantasy, Downtown Came Uptown, Bad Apple, That Hypnotizin’ Boogie and Do the Bearcat.
Award-Winning Music Career Spans Decades
With multiple gold and platinum albums to his credit, Wilcox has earned recognition across generations of music fans. His work has extended beyond the concert stage, with songs featured in film and television productions. One of his best-known recordings, Rockin’ the Boogie, gained additional exposure when Olympic champions Jamie Salé and David Pelletier performed to the song during their exhibition skate at the 2002 Winter Olympic Games.
Throughout his career, Wilcox has performed at prestigious venues and events, including Carnegie Hall and the Montreux Jazz Festival. Despite international appearances, he has remained best known for energetic live performances that showcase his guitar playing, stage presence and distinctive vocal style.
Return to Peterborough Musicfest After Memorable 2024 Rescheduling
Saturday’s concert will be Wilcox’s fourth scheduled appearance on the Fred Anderson Stage.
He first performed at Peterborough Musicfest in 1999 and was scheduled to return in August 2024 following a 25-year absence. However, that performance was cancelled after a power outage affected the event. Festival organizers quickly arranged a replacement concert, welcoming Wilcox back as the season finale just four days later.
His return this summer offers audiences another opportunity to experience one of Canada’s most respected live performers in the open-air setting of Del Crary Park.
Opening Performance Highlights Indigenous Storytelling Through Music
Before Wilcox takes the stage, audiences can enjoy an opening performance by James N. Wilson as part of the Future Sound Series presented by Cogeco.
Beginning at 6:30 p.m., Wilson, a Mohawk and French-Canadian singer-songwriter from Six Nations of the Grand River, will perform original songs inspired by identity, community and personal experience. His appearance has been made possible through support from the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund, an organization dedicated to advancing reconciliation through education and awareness.
Family Activities and Festival Attractions Begin Before Headline Show
Families attending the concert can also participate in First Note, a new Peterborough Musicfest initiative running from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
The free program gives children and young people the opportunity to explore a variety of musical instruments through hands-on activities designed to encourage creativity and introduce participants to making music. No registration or previous musical experience is required.
Visitors can also enjoy food vendors throughout Del Crary Park, browse official Peterborough Musicfest merchandise or rent chairs for $10 at the festival’s information booth.
Free Summer Concert Series Continues Its 39th Season
David Wilcox will take the Fred Anderson Stage at 8 p.m., with admission remaining free for all attendees. Organizers encourage concertgoers to arrive early, bring lawn chairs or blankets, and take advantage of the evening’s activities before the headline performance begins.
Now celebrating its 39th season, Peterborough Musicfest continues to present free concerts every Wednesday and Saturday throughout the summer, bringing nationally recognized artists and emerging performers to the shores of Little Lake while providing accessible live entertainment for residents and visitors alike.