Top Things to Do in Peterborough This March

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.

March is particularly fun time to start dreaming about warmer days ahead, celebrate Peterborough's Irish heritage, and to have fun with the kids who are enjoying a break from school. 

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.

Make the Most of March Break

Looking to escape for a few days at March Break? Book in at a local hotel and spend a few days exploring local attractions like The Canadian Canoe Museum, Peterborough Museum and Archives, and the Riverview Park and Zoo. Enjoy skating downtown at Quaker Foods City Square or explore snowy trails on snowshoes or nordic skis. Peterborough is a budget-friendly March Break destination, so save room for dessert and other deliciousness (check out our post on kid-approved dining for ideas and inspiration).

When: March Break runs from March 7 - 16

St. Patrick's Day Parade

Annual parade celebrating Irish culture with floats, music, and performances. This year marks the 200th anniversary of the emigration of a large number of Irish families who settled in the Peterborough area, and in honour of that celebration Peter Robinson - the Canadian politician who oversaw this settlement in 1824 - will be coming out to marshall the parade (played by actor M. John Kennedy who will playing Robinson in Wild Irish Geese at 4th Line Theatre this summer).

When: Sunday, March 16, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.

Where: George Street beginning at City Hall (500 George Street North) and through downtown.

Learn more about the Peterborough St. Patrick's Day Parade

Other Opportunities to Get Your Irish On

Enjoy live performances, downtown Peterborough pubs, and other shenanigans connected to St. Patrick's Day celebrations.

Sean McCann from iconic Canadian band Great Big Sea will perform at Market Hall on March 15, Showplace Performance Centre is hosting their lounge events in the Cogeco Studio including Foley's Pub and Bob Trennum's Sing-a-long Irish Show.

CANCAST Fishing and Tackle Show - March 30

The surrounding Kawarthas cottage country has made this region a fishing destination for generations - add this experience to your list. The CANCAST Fishing and Tackle Show has over 150 vendors, a famous tackle swap, and opportunities to learn from experts and meet-and-greet with celebrity anglers.

When: Sunday March 30, 2025

Where: Peterborough Memorial Centre, 151 Lansdowne Street West

Tickets available through the Memorial Centre Box Office

Leaf through Literature

Literature takes many forms, and in March there are a few great ways to celebrate. The brand new It's Highly Likely Festival (presented by Take Cover Books and Miracle Territory) runs from February 27 to March 2 - featuring picture book reading, live music, poetry, and all other ways to celebrate music and literature. 

On March 7 & 8, Artspace holds the 9th Annual Book and Zine Fest, a celebration of regional press, zine, comic, and paper arts.

Mosey Through a Museum

In March, some days can be a little more 'lion' than 'lamb'. Tame your days by tucking into the exhibits at The Canadian Canoe Museum, Peterborough Museum and Archives or OFAH Hunting & Fishing Heritage Centre.

Learn more about attractions in the City of Peterborough

Plan a Garden

For many, March is a time of seedlings tucked in windows and sketches of garden plans for warmer days ahead. Plan a weekend in Peterborough exploring the Garden Route - a self-drive tour of shops and stops for your gardening inspiration.

Come out Seedy Sunday, Peterborough's annual seed swap and sale and come away with knowledge, tools and resources to grow your garden.

When: Sunday March 9 from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Where: Peterborough Square

or...Plan Your Future (with College and University Open House Events)

Whether you have a prospective student in your life, are planning some post-secondary studies, or are just plain curious about what happens on campus, March is a great time to explore Trent University and Fleming College campuses with their open house events that include guided tours of campus.

Trent University March Break Open House: Friday, March 14 from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Fleming College Spring Open House: Saturday, March 22 from 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.