Free events at Del Crary Park to feature live entertainment, Neon Nostalgic, fireworks and award-winning Canadian trio
PETERBOROUGH, Ont. — Peterborough Musicfest is preparing for a busy week of free live entertainment, with a full day of Canada Day festivities planned for July 1 followed by the return of acclaimed Canadian folk trio Good Lovelies on July 4 at Del Crary Park.
The events, held in partnership with the City of Peterborough and supported by community sponsors and government funding, are expected to draw large crowds to the city’s waterfront as residents and visitors gather for music, family activities and celebrations.
Canada Day festivities to span afternoon and evening
Canada Day celebrations will begin at Del Crary Park with family-friendly programming from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., featuring live performances and activities designed for all ages. Organizers say the waterfront park will offer a full day of entertainment, giving attendees the opportunity to celebrate Canada’s national holiday from afternoon through the evening.
The evening portion of the celebration will be led by Peterborough Musicfest, which will present Neon Nostalgic on the Fred Anderson Stage beginning at 8 p.m.
The retro rock production, known for combining live music with synchronized visual effects, will return after a well-received appearance during last year’s Canada Day festivities. The show features music spanning several decades, including hits from the 1980s to the present day.
This year’s performance will once again highlight Canadian artists while also paying tribute to internationally recognized acts such as Prince, Bon Jovi, INXS, U2, The Killers and Michael Jackson. Organizers say the concert is designed to create a high-energy atmosphere that encourages audience participation throughout the evening.
Visitors are encouraged to arrive early and remain on site for the entire day’s programming. Food vendors will operate throughout the afternoon and evening, while Peterborough Musicfest’s new Season 39 merchandise collection will be available for purchase. Lawn chair rentals will also be offered at the Musicfest Information Booth for $10.
The festival’s annual 50/50 raffle will continue during the celebrations. Organizers noted that the first winner of the season took home more than $5,000, with proceeds helping support free live music programming.
The day’s events will conclude with the City of Peterborough’s Canada Day fireworks display over Little Lake, immediately following the concert.
Admission to all Canada Day activities at Del Crary Park is free.
Good Lovelies return to familiar stage
Just days after Canada Day celebrations conclude, Peterborough Musicfest will welcome Good Lovelies back to Del Crary Park on Saturday, July 4.
The award-winning trio, made up of Caroline Brooks, Kerri Ough and Sue Passmore, first appeared at Musicfest more than a decade ago and has since built a strong reputation across Canada and internationally for its blend of folk, roots, country and pop music.
Known for their distinctive three-part harmonies and engaging stage presence, the group has cultivated a loyal audience over nearly 20 years of touring and recording.
The return carries additional significance because two members of the trio have roots in neighbouring Northumberland County, strengthening the band’s connection to the Peterborough region.
“We’re excited to welcome Good Lovelies back to Musicfest,” says Tracey Randall, Executive Director of Peterborough Musicfest. “Their harmonies are incredible, but it’s the way they connect with the audience that really sets them apart. They create the kind of shared experience that brings people together, and that’s exactly what Musicfest is all about.”
Full evening of music planned
The July 4 concert experience will begin before Good Lovelies take the stage.
Ty Wilson will perform at 6:30 p.m. as part of the Future Sound Series presented by Cogeco. Organizers say Wilson’s modern country style and energetic performances will provide an upbeat start to the evening.
Attendees are also invited to take advantage of Happy Hour food specials offered by participating vendors between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. Festival merchandise and 50/50 raffle tickets will be available throughout the event.
Following a successful opening night that saw the raffle jackpot exceed $5,000, organizers expect continued community participation as the season progresses.
Peterborough Musicfest remains one of Canada’s longest-running free-admission music festivals, relying on the support of sponsors, funders, donors, volunteers and community partners to keep concerts accessible to the public.
Guests attending either event are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the performances along the shores of Little Lake.
Event Schedule
Canada Day – July 1
- 1:00–4:00 p.m. — Canada Day entertainment in partnership with the City of Peterborough
- 8:00 p.m. — Neon Nostalgic
- Following the concert — Canada Day fireworks
- Location: Del Crary Park, Peterborough, Ont.
- Admission: Free
Good Lovelies – July 4
- 5:00–6:00 p.m. — Happy Hour food specials
- 6:30 p.m. — Future Sound Series featuring Ty Wilson
- 8:00 p.m. — Good Lovelies
- Location: Del Crary Park, Peterborough, Ont.
- Admission: Free
Peterborough Musicfest’s Canada Day concert is supported in part by the Government of Canada through the Celebrate Canada program. For the complete 2026 season lineup and festival information, visitors can consult the festival’s official website.