Top Things to Do This January

Whether you're a local looking for the freshest fun or a visitor exploring the city's charm, there's something exciting to do every month.

Each month, we pull together this list of highlights focused on cultural highlights, seasonal activities, and events. You can use this list to make some incredible memories of your time in Peterborough.

Hogmanay at Hutchison House Museum

Ring in the New Year with a taste of Scotland at Hutchison House on January 1. Visitors can enjoy traditional treats like Clooty Dumpling, Scotch Eggs, potted salmon, cheeses, oatcakes, shortbread, haggis, and more. At 1 p.m., the first-footer will be piped in, followed by a lively rendition of Burns’ Address to a Haggis. Throughout the afternoon, guests are invited to explore the museum, enjoy fiddle music, dancing, and the skirl of bagpipes and drums, and share good wishes with friends and neighbours as the year begins.

When: Thursday, January 1, 2026 from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Where: Hutchison House Museum, 270 Brock Street, Peterborough

Learn more about Hogmanay at Hutchison House

Nordic Skiing in the Heart of the City

Head over to Peterborough Nordic Club to enjoy a snowy escape from the everyday without venturing out of town. With seven kilometres of groomed trails to explore, you can park directly at the trailhead and head off to choose your own adventure. Whether you prefer flat or rolling loops, there’s something for everyone — including your four-legged friends! 

Where: Peterborough Nordic Club at Lift Lock Golf Club, 2320 Ashburnham Drive, Peterborough

Learn more about Peterborough Nordic Club

Bobcaygeon Tasting Series: Winter Beers

This guided tasting will explore eight unique winter beers, ranging from our very own Cardinal Red IPA and Winter Lager to classic authentic Belgian styles and contemporary Canadian takes on winter beer from Ontario and beyond!

When: Thursday, January 15, 2026 – 6 p.m.

Where: Bobcaygeon Brewing Company, 4-649 The Parkway in Peterborough

Get your tickets for the Bobcaygeon Tasting Series: Winter Beers

Enjoy the Tranquility of the Outdoors

So far, this is shaping up to be a spectacularly snowy winter in Peterborough. Take some time to have a breath of fresh air, make some memories, and perhaps even enjoy a fresh snowfall at trails and parks throughout the City.

Where: Trent University Wildlife Sanctuary Trails, Jackson Park, Rotary Greenaway Trail (and others)

Learn more on the Nature and Outdoors Page

Julian Taylor and Logan Staats at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre

Set in the heart of downtown Peterborough, the historic Market Hall Performing Arts Centre provides an intimate and acoustically rich backdrop for an unforgettable evening of live music. Critically acclaimed songwriters Julian Taylor and Logan Staats join forces for a Canadian tour stop that blends powerful songs with heartfelt storytelling. Presented in an acoustic format, this shared-stage performance promises musical surprises and an inspiring night with two award-winning recording artists.

When: Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 8 p.m.

Reframe Film Festival

ReFrame is a widely celebrated event in the Nogojiwanong / Peterborough arts and culture community. With a focus on social justice, human rights, and environmental responsibility, ReFrame strives to foster meaningful connections between audiences, filmmakers and artists, community partners, and neighbours.

When: Friday, January 30 to Sunday, February 1 (beginning at 4 p.m. on January 30)

Where: Downtown Nogojiwanong Peterborough at Showplace and Market Hall

Get your passes (in-person, hybrid and virtual available!) for the Reframe Film Festival.