A new pilot program is giving local festivals and events a boost while helping grow tourism in Peterborough.
The City’s Elevate Peterborough program aims to enhance events that encourage overnight stays, drive economic impact, and raise the city’s profile as a destination. Applications are now open for organizers planning conferences, music or cultural festivals, art shows, culinary events, sporting tournaments, and educational gatherings.
Tanya Budgen, Service Area Manager for Tourism & Events, said, “Through Elevate Peterborough we’re strengthening collaboration with event organizers to attract visitors, increase overnight stays, and generate meaningful economic impact for our community while elevating what’s possible here in Peterborough.”
The pilot program runs through 2026, with applications accepted on a rolling basis if submitted at least 120 days before an event. Feedback from organizers will help shape the program for 2027.
Two information sessions for organizers will be held on March 18 from 5 to 7 p.m. and March 30 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Miskin Law Community Complex, 271 Lansdowne St. W.
The City has allocated $75,000 in its 2026 budget to support in-kind services, marketing, visitor information, event evaluation, and ancillary programming for eligible events. Details and applications are available at ptbotourism.ca/elevate.
