Peterborough Musicfest Unveils First Shows of 39th Season with Gowan and Dwayne Gretzky
PETERBOROUGH, ON – Peterborough Musicfest is excited to announce the first two concerts of its 39th season, setting the stage for another summer of live music at Canada’s longest-running free admission music festival.
Gowan returns to the Fred Anderson Stage for his 4th appearance on Opening Night Saturday, June 27, followed by Dwayne Gretzky, making their 6th appearance, on Wednesday, July 29. Both shows take place at Del Crary Park and are free to attend.
A returning favourite, Gowan is known for turning every appearance into a full-scale live experience. With hits like “A Criminal Mind,” “Strange Animal,” and “Moonlight Desires,”
his performances blend powerhouse vocals, theatrical flair, and world-class musicianship. His return to the Fred Anderson Stage promises another unforgettable night that will have the entire park locked in from the first note to the final encore.
Dwayne Gretzky, Canada’s Greatest Party Band, brings unmatched energy to the lineup. With a catalogue of more than 800 songs from the 70s, 80s, and 90s, their shows are built for big crowds and even bigger singalongs. From the opening song, they transform the park into a high-energy, all-ages party—one of those nights where everyone knows the words and no one stays in their seat.
“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 this season are the on-site food vendors, the 50/50 draw, and the Future Sound Series presented by Cogeco, continuing to highlight emerging Canadian talent. Additional artist announcements will follow in the coming weeks.
Each summer, Peterborough Musicfest attracts more than 100,000 attendees to Del Crary Park, offering free access to live music in a vibrant waterfront setting.
Peterborough Musicfest – Season 39
Dates: June 27 – August 19, 2026
When: Every Wednesday + Saturday 8pm
Location: Del Crary Park, Peterborough, Ontario
Always FREE thanks to our generous sponsors
For updates, lineup announcements, and more information, visit www.ptbomusicfest.ca or follow
Peterborough Musicfest on social media @ptbomusicfest.
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ABOUT PETERBOROUGH MUSICFEST
Peterborough Musicfest is funded by corporate sponsorships – most of those being locally owned businesses – multiple levels of government support, fundraising initiatives and private donations. As a result, it has been, and steadfastly remains, a uniquely free admission event. Dallas Green, Little River Band, Metric, Our Lady Peace, Serena Ryder, Gordon Lightfoot, Down With Webster, Terri Clark, and Blue Rodeo are just a few of the sensational music acts that have appeared over the years.
Overseen by Executive Director Tracey Randall and staff, and a board of directors, Peterborough Musicfest’s stated mission is to “provide diverse, affordable live music to enrich cultural and economic prosperity in our community. In order to fulfill this mandate and keep attracting legendary musicians to our stage, Peterborough Musicfest encourages any individual or business interested in sponsoring the festival to reach out at sales@ptbomusicfest.ca or phone 705-755-1111.
