Photo via PtboCounty.ca
Take a chance this holiday season and shop local — it could be the difference between empty pockets and a $1,500 shopping spree.
Peterborough County has launched its second Kawarthas Quest initiative, unveiling the Holiday Magic Digital Passport to encourage residents and visitors to explore small businesses across all eight townships.
The program builds on the success of the Lakefield Scavenger Hunt and taps into the growing appeal of experiential shopping and community-focused holiday outings.
General Manager of Economic Development Rhonda Keenan says they have taken what they’ve learned from that experience.
Using the Driftscape app or a mobile browser, participants can visit more than 50 shops and cafés, enter each location’s secret password, and earn points. For every 10 points collected, they receive a ballot toward weekly gift card draws and the grand prize: $1,500 in gift cards to be awarded January 7, 2026. More points mean more ballots — and more chances to win.
Keenan says if you’re a points collector – this is for you.
Keenan says the initiative highlights the strength of county-wide collaboration and supports the local businesses that shape the region.
She adds it also gives small businesses a valuable chance to expand their networks.
Participants can collect points through December 24, with weekly prize draws beginning November 24. Ballots for the grand prize must be submitted by December 31.
(Written by: Noah Lorusso)
