Veteran Canadian performer headlines opening night of waterfront festival
PETERBOROUGH, Ont. — Peterborough Musicfest is set to begin its 39th season this week, welcoming Canadian rock icon Gowan back to the Fred Anderson Stage as the long-running festival launches another summer of free live music in the city.
The season opener takes place on Saturday, June 27, at Del Crary Park, where Gowan will headline the opening-night concert beginning at 8 p.m. The performance marks the singer-songwriter’s fourth appearance at the festival, reinforcing his status as one of the event’s most popular returning artists.
Organizers say the opening concert will set the tone for a summer schedule featuring 16 nights of live performances from Canadian and international acts, all offered free of charge to attendees.
Known for hits such as A Criminal Mind, Strange Animal, and Moonlight Desires, Gowan has built a decades-long career as one of Canada’s most recognizable performers. His energetic live shows and theatrical stage presence have made him a recurring crowd favourite at Peterborough Musicfest.
“Gowan has become one of those artists our audience never gets tired of seeing,” says Tracey Randall, Executive Director of Peterborough Musicfest. “His shows always bring incredible energy, and having him return for a fourth appearance is a fitting way to launch another summer of free live music.”
Irish Millie to open evening as part of Future Sound Series
Before Gowan takes the main stage, emerging artist Irish Millie will perform at 6:30 p.m. on the side stage as part of the Future Sound Series presented by Cogeco. The series is designed to showcase developing talent and provide audiences with an opportunity to discover new artists ahead of the headline performance.
Festival organizers are encouraging concertgoers to arrive early and take advantage of the broader opening-night experience. Food vendors will begin serving at 5 p.m., with participating vendors offering Happy Hour food specials until 6 p.m.
Additional activities planned for opening night include the launch of Peterborough Musicfest’s 50/50 fundraising ticket sales, which will be available on site throughout the evening.
Free-admission model remains central to festival mission
Peterborough Musicfest has become one of Ontario’s largest free-admission music festivals, attracting thousands of visitors to the city’s waterfront each summer. Organizers say the event continues to operate through a combination of corporate sponsorships, government support, fundraising efforts and private donations.
The festival’s free-admission format has remained unchanged since its inception, helping make live music accessible to residents and visitors alike while contributing to the local economy through tourism and visitor spending.
Over nearly four decades, the festival has hosted a wide range of acclaimed performers. Past acts have included Dallas Green, Little River Band, Metric, Our Lady Peace, Serena Ryder, Gordon Lightfoot, Down With Webster, Terri Clark and Blue Rodeo.
Under the leadership of Executive Director Tracey Randall, staff and a volunteer board of directors, the organization says its mission is to “provide diverse, affordable live music to enrich cultural and economic prosperity in our community.”
Season 39 lineup features established Canadian acts
Following opening night, Peterborough Musicfest will continue through Aug. 19 with a lineup featuring several prominent Canadian artists and bands. Scheduled performers this season include Tyler Joe Miller, Matthew Good and His Band, Dwayne Gretzky, Crash Test Dummies and additional acts to be announced.
The festival’s location at Del Crary Park has long been a key draw, offering audiences a waterfront concert experience in the heart of Peterborough.
Event Details
Opening Night Featuring Gowan
Date: Saturday, June 27, 2026
Future Sound Series (Side Stage): Irish Millie – 6:30 p.m.
Main Stage: Gowan – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Del Crary Park, Peterborough, Ontario
Admission: Free
Festival organizers say attendees can find additional concert information, artist announcements and event updates through Peterborough Musicfest’s official channels throughout the summer season.