Peterborough DBIA to Create Memorable Evening With Inaugural 'Love Yourself, Love The Boro' Event For Feb. 13

The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) is making Downtown a night to remember with its inaugural ‘Love Yourself, Love the Boro’ event from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Feb. 13.

Other participating businesses include: The Vanilla Room, Couture Candy, The Speak Easy Cafe, Sugar Me Right, Watson & Lou, Needles in the Hay, Agave by Imperial, Iceman Video Games, By the Books, T-Elle Boutique, Brothers Pizza, Rawscoes Sports & Collectibles, Cozy Home, Lavender Moon, Naka Japanese and the Holiday Inn. Photo courtesy of the DBIA.

The event has exclusive deals, giveaways and surprises as attendees explore the downtown core. A self-guided tour of downtown businesses runs from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and ends with pop-ups, live entertainment and giveaways at The Venue from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The DBIA has released a Google Map that showcases the participating locations and highlights the exclusive offers and events.

The celebration at The Venue has popups from local artists and vintage vendors such as Em’s Broideries, Of Whimsy & Wonder, Hello Irene, Sarah Crane and Eclectic City.

”Our Love Yourself, Love the Boro event is a really wonderful opportunity for our community to show some love for our downtown businesses while also treating themselves to a special night out,” said Nour Mazloum, Peterborough DBIA executive director. “This event was designed as a way to guide people through all the amazing spots in our downtown area during what is typically a slower season for our businesses. Whether you’re going out with friends, a partner, or just want some self care, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and there are also some exciting giveaways and surprises to discover along the way.”

Needles in the Hay is hosting a drop-in felting workshop where community members can stop by to create a felted heart in their Hayloft space.

"At Needles in the Hay, we've always believed in the power of connection and creativity - as they go hand in hand" said Deanna Guttman, Needles in the Hay owner. “The Hayloft is our new studio space above the shop where fibre artists of all persuasions can come together to learn, celebrate and share their craft. We're thrilled to offer our drop-in needle felted hearts workshop for this event as it's the perfect opportunity for people to explore all downtown has to offer. We couldn't be more excited to welcome community members into our space to create something fun together.”

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Peterborough DBIA Announce Information For Event Support Grant and Application Deadlines

The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) has released details for its 2025 Community Event Support Grant and application deadlines.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough DBIA.

This funding opportunity was developed to help financially support organizers who choose to host their community-minded events in the downtown core, which in turn helps create a lively, vibrant and active urban centre.

The DBIA states that this initiative aims to help foster an inclusive and thriving downtown community by encouraging diverse events that drive economic prosperity and increased foot traffic to the downtown core and also nurture the health of Peterborough’s social fabric by fostering an increase in community engagement.

The Peterborough DBIA will provide financial and in-kind support to selected events that align with their core strategic priorities. The number and extent of grants awarded will be determined by the availability of designated funds and the number of applications that fit the criteria. 

The DBIA event priorities are as follows:

• Reaching priority and diverse audiences

• Engaging the DBIA member businesses including restaurants, shops and services

• Bringing economic prosperity to the region, specifically within the BIA district 

• Encouraging tourism, downtown exploration and increased foot traffic to BIA member businesses 

• Building community connection to and within the downtown area

• Celebrating the unique cultures and identities of downtown Peterborough

The goal of the DBIA event states that its support grant is to empower event organizers to create and host events that encourage repeat visitation and year-round animation in the core by helping to offset costs such as advertising, administrative fees, supply costs, permit and rental fees, for example.

"Our goal is to provide support for event organizers who work to create memorable experiences in our downtown that not only bring economic benefits by increasing foot traffic to the businesses, but also strengthen our overall sense of community and connection,” said Nour Mazloum, DBIA executive director. “We look forward to collaborating with and supporting the visionaries and event planners who also work to create spaces where people feel connected. Together, we can showcase how special and important downtown Peterborough is for the social fabric and health of our community, and also for visitors who will want to choose this region as their destination of choice for enjoying a diverse set of unique and seasonal experiences.” 

Applicants who successfully meet the DBIA funding priorities can expect to receive support funds within two weeks of their scheduled event date. If the event requires in-kind support, organizers are asked to coordinate these requests with the DBIA at least two weeks before the event date. 

The event support grants will have two deadlines throughout the calendar year for application submissions:

• March 1: For events hosted from April 1 to Sept. 30

• Sept. 1: For events hosted from Oct. 1 to March 31, 2026

After a submission, the DBIA board will review all applications for the March 1 or Sept. 1 deadlines and decide on funding allocations in the board meeting that directly follows the deadline. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered for funding. All applications must provide the DBIA with a detailed budget outline for their event to be considered.

The event application form can be found at ptbodbia.ca or online.

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Peterborough DBIA's Holiday Shopping Passport/Window Contest Winners Announced

The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) has announced Michelle Cardwell and T-Elle Boutique by VSL the winners of its 2024/2025 Holiday Shopping Passport draw and the Holiday Window Contest respectively.

(From left to right)Amanda Clarkson, Manager of Tribal Voices; Michelle Cardwell and Amanda Bedford, Marketing and Communications Manager for the Peterborough DBIA celebrate the win inside Tribal Voices downtown Peterborough. Photo courtesy of the Peterborough DBIA.

Cardwell’s lucky passport was drawn on Jan. 8 at Venture Northto win a $1,500 downtown shopping spree.

She shopped at the following places to fill her passport: Stuff from Mom’s Basement, Tribal Voices, The Black Horse Pub, Riley’s, Soupcon Bistro and Peterborough Photo Services.

“Downtown Peterborough is a treasure trove of unique experiences, with a variety of shops and restaurants you won't find anywhere else in the city. I love taking my time in each store, and discovering one-of-a-kind items that make every visit special,” said Cardwell. “The free holiday parking during the holiday season is also a wonderful perk, giving me and my husband more time to explore. We love seeking out and trying new restaurants as well as checking out live music and local talent at venues like McThirsty's Pub, The Black Horse, One Eighty, and the rooftop patio at Riley's in the summer. Downtown is truly a place where we can all connect, explore, and support our amazing local businesses.”

“Our holiday programming reflects our strategic commitment to fostering a vibrant, dynamic downtown while also providing a rewarding experience for those who support local businesses,” says Nour Mazloum, DBIA executive director. “These initiatives are about strengthening both the economic and social fabric of our community by encouraging people to spend their dollars locally and celebrating our entrepreneurs. We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who shopped and supported downtown businesses during the holiday season, and we look forward to continuing to build a strong and resilient community that supports and uplifts each other all year long.”

Bob King, Devon Girard and an anonymous person were winners of the three early bird draws. The anonymous winner donated their prize to the yearly toy drive organized by The Toy Shop, Peterborough Fire Services and the Salvation Army of Peterborough.

T-Elle Boutique by VSL was crowned the DBIA's Holiday Window Contest winner where each participant decorated with the ‘Frozen Fantasy’ theme.

This year’s contest winners were determined by a community vote.

The top three winners are:

1. T-Elle Boutique by VSL

2. Under Pressure Wellness Clinic

3. Statement House

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'Halloween in the Booro' Hits Downtown Peterborough Streets On Oct. 26

The streets of downtown Peterborough will come alive again with frightful fun and sweet surprises on Oct. 26 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. during the ‘Halloween in the Booro’ celebration.

Photo courtesy of the DBIA.

Almost 30 local businesses will participate in this family-friendly free event, which will offer downtown trick-or-treating, a scavenger hunt for kids and late-night shopping. 

According to a press release, the Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) organizes the event, which is designed to bring the community together and spotlight the local businesses that make downtown Peterborough a special and unique destination.

Participating shops across Charlotte, George, Hunter, Sherbrooke, and Water Streets will be decked out in Halloween spirit, handing out sweet treats and offering exclusive experiences. The trick-or-treating tour will culminate with a spooky and sweet surprise for those who complete the scavenger hunt.

“Our Halloween in the Booro event is not only great for families but also plays a vital role in supporting our local business community,” says Nour Mazloum, DBIA executive director. “It encourages residents to get out and explore our downtown, discover something new, and further strengthens the connection with our downtown businesses.”

“This event is always a highlight for us. It’s amazing to see families out enjoying and exploring our downtown. The energy it brings is contagious,” said Lisa Couture, Couture Candy Peterborough owner. “We’re so excited to welcome everyone back this year and to be part of such a fun and engaging community event. It’s a great way to connect with our customers and celebrate the spirit of downtown Peterborough.” 

Families can view a trick-or-treating map to plan their adventure for the event. On the night of the event, they’ll be greeted by haunted characters stationed throughout downtown, adding to the eerie atmosphere. With many businesses participating, there will be plenty of treats and surprises in store.

Participating Businesses:

• Charlotte Street: T-Elle Boutique by VSL, Rawscoe's Sport Collectibles, Cozy Home, Bobo Tea, The Toy Shop, Gather Home Goods, Lavender Moon

• George Street: Iceman Video Games, Couture Candy PTBO, Chumleighs, Boardwalk Board Game Lounge, Kollect This Inc., Green Street, Summer Soul Yoga & Wellness, Lift Lock Escape, John Roberts Clothiers

• Hunter Street: NAKA Japanese, Plant Goals, The Dirty Burger

• Sherbrooke Street: Sugar Me Right! Beauty Studio, Avant Garden Shop, The Vine

• Water Street: The Neighbourhood Vintage, Needles in the Hay, Statement House, Birdhouse Tattoo, Watson & Lou, Vanilla Room

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Peterborough DBIA Brings Back 'Explore the Boro Scavenger Hunt' to Help Connect Trent Students to the Community

Starting this week, Trent University students will discover their campus and the Peterborough community through Explore the Boro, a scavenger hunt to help familiarize students with local shopping and leisure spots while also supporting downtown businesses, announced on Wednesday.

The annual event—originally launched in 2021 as the bingo event Discover Peterborough—highlights local shops, cafés, and restaurants, helping students feel more connected to their new home. Photo Courtesy of Trent University.

Explore the Boro, co-hosted by Trent and the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA), encourages students to discover and engage with Downtown Peterborough.

“The excitement in Peterborough reaches a new level each fall as Trent students return to the city, bringing with them a vibrant energy that enriches our cultural, social, and economic landscape,” said Alison Scholl, senior manager, Community & External Relations at Trent University. “Explore the Boro offers a fun and engaging way for our incoming and returning students to immerse themselves in all that Peterborough has to offer.”

From Sept. 1 to 15, Trent students can participate in the scavenger hunt by completing missions via the Goosechase app. These missions range from snapping selfies at key landmarks to answering trivia questions. They allow students to earn points and discover hidden gems around campus and the city. Prizes will be awarded to the top three participants. The student with the highest score will win a $1,250 Boro gift card, redeemable at various downtown businesses.

“Trent students invigorate our downtown, and this event strengthens the bonds between students and local businesses,” said Nour Mazloum, DBIA executive director. “We’re excited to continue this valuable partnership, providing students with opportunities to explore, engage, and contribute to the cultural and economic vibrancy that makes Peterborough & the Kawarthas such a unique and welcoming destination.”

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Peterborough DBIA Relocating Headquarters to Venture North Building On May 1

The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) is relocating its headquarters to the Venture North building for May 1, announced on Monday morning.

pHOTO courtesy of the Peterborough DBIA.

The Board believed since the Venture North building was a central and visible position within the local business ecosystem as stated in a press release.

“As our community’s needs and the DBIA’s ambitions have grown, it became clear that a new space was necessary to support our future initiatives,” said Sacha Lai-Svirk, DBIA board chair. “The Venture North building offers a modern, sustainable, and accessible location that aligns with our goals and vision for the future of our downtown business area.”

The new headquarters will feature dedicated board rooms, a lobby area for public engagement and enhanced facilities designed to better serve the DBIA staff, members and community.

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Peterborough DBIA Searching For New Executive Director

Following Terry Guiel's departure in October, who served for over a decade, Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) is searching for a new executive director.

Photo by Keegan Beekrs.

The non-profit organization promotes and enhances commercial activities, aesthetics and overall development of Downtown Peterborough.

The job is seeking someone to lead the DBIA to revitalize and transform downtown Peterborough into a vibrant hub for residents, workers, and visitors alike according to a press release.

“We are thrilled to begin the search for a new executive director who will continue to lead the DBIA towards achieving its strategic goals for downtown revitalization and community development.” Sacha Lai-Svirk, DBIA board chair. “We are looking for a visionary leader who shares our passion for making downtown Peterborough the region's premier destination for entertainment and business. The Executive Director will play a critical role in steering our efforts, from beautification projects to innovative programs and events, aiming to enhance the downtown experience for everyone."

Prospective candidates can submit their applications online via The Phelps Group with the deadline of March 19.

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Agave By Imperial Wins Back-To-Back Top Chocolatier Titles From DBIA's Hot Chocolate Festival

A second straight title of Top Chocolatier goes to Agave by Imperial after winning the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area’s (DBIA) second-annual Hot Chocolate Festival, announced on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough DBIA.

The Peterborough Hot Chocolate Fest featured 20 hot chocolate creations available for dine-in or takeout from participating downtown cafés, restaurants and pubs. Festival goers voted online for their favourites in three different categories: top hot chocolate, most unique and best classic.

With over 1,800 votes cast, Agave by Imperial’s Chocolate Champurrado won first place receiving the most votes overall, winning back-to-back titles. As this year’s winner, Agave received a hot chocolate-themed trophy and bragging rights for the year.

“We want to thank Peterborough for all your support and votes. We are so excited to be the top chocolatier for the second year in a row,” says Manish Choudhry, Agave owner. “Our customers loved this addition to our menu, and many people looked forward to enjoying the Chocolate Champurrado after their meal. This festival is a great way to bring more people downtown and get out to explore all the wonderful businesses and culinary artists in the area.”

Agave’s winning entry for this year, the Chocolate Champurrado. Photo courtesy of the Peterborough DBIA.

The Dirty Burger Company won the ‘Best H’Adult’ award with its cocoa cocktail, the ‘Honey Cocoa Crunch Puff.’ Milk + Tea Shop wins the category of “Most Unique” for its cozy Earl Grey Hot Chocolate and Dreams of Beans wins the category of “Best Classic” for its indulgent Hazelnut-Infused Triple Chocolate.

New this year was a Hot Chocolate Rewards app. Digital stamp collectors were entered to win a weekly draw for Boro gift cards and receive access to exclusive discounts at several downtown businesses. Over 300 festival goers signed up for rewards, with four winners in total.

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Downtown Dining Gets Cozier With 'Brrr-O-Licious' In Partnership With PKED and Peterborough DBIA

In a campaign to help support Downtown Peterborough restaurants between Christmas and patio season, Peterborough & the Kawarthas Tourism (PKT) and the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) have partnered to launch their culinary pilot program Brrr-O-Licious.

Photo courtesy of PKED.

From March 1 to 17, ten participating downtown restaurants offer a fixed three-course lunch or dinner for $35 a person.

“Brrr-O-Licious is a wonderful way for visitors and locals alike to get a taste of what our local food scene has to offer, and to check out different events and attractions in downtown Peterborough,” says Joe Rees, PKED director of tourism. “Running this pilot program in March encourages people to support restaurants in the community during their slower time of the year. Following a successful pilot in downtown Peterborough, it is our intention to expand to additional communities and locations in the City of Peterborough and Peterborough County in future years.”

“We’re excited to be partnering with Peterborough & the Kawarthas Tourism to elevate our downtown's destination profile in the visitor space,” said Hillary Flood, PTBO DBIA vibrancy manager. “Brrr-O-Licious will help draw in new and repeat visitors to our charming downtown core through food while providing the perfect backdrop for folks to get better acquainted with our unique shops, fashion boutiques, arts community, nightlife and more.”

Participating downtown restaurants include:

• Agave by Imperial

• Dirty Burger

• Gerti’s

• La Hacienda

• La Mesita

• Sam’s Place

• The El (P)

• The Publican House Brewery & Pub

• The Riverside Grill & Lounge at the Holiday Inn

• The Vine

Restaurant menus and instructions on how to make reservations are available online.

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Peterborough DBIA Holiday Shopping Passport Grand Prize Winner Announced

Amanda Kennedy has been named the winner of the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) grand prize draw for the Holiday Shopping Passport in $1,500 Boro gift cards, announced on Wednesday.

Amanda Kennedy (left) stands with Deanna Guttman (right), owner of Needles in the Hay at 385 Water St. celebrating the grand prize win. Photo courtesy of the Peterborough DBIA.

The winning passport was drawn at the Peterborough DBIA office with Gerry Kretschmar, Niche Ptbo owner and operator on Wednesday. The winning passport was completed at Needles in the Hay at 385 Water St.

“I love shopping downtown because it turns a simple trip into a whole experience. You can grab a drink or some food, visit a variety of shops, and you receive a way better customer service experience because local businesses are so passionate and knowledgeable about what they offer,” said Kennedy Amanda. “I plan on trying out some of the classes offered by Needles in the Hay with my winnings and also purchase a new set of skis.”

The Boro gift cards were redeemable at participating downtown businesses including a variety of shops, boutiques, salons, restaurants, cafes and services.

During the Holiday Passport season, shoppers receive a stamp for every $10 spent participating downtown business. After 20 stamps, passport holders can complete the contact form and drop it off at participating businesses to be entered into the draw.

Three early bird winners were named prior to the grand prize draw.

“Supporting local business is vital for our community well-being,” said Sacha Lai-Svirk, DBIA board chair. “When dollars are spent locally, they are often re-spent and continue to circulate up to three times more money back into our local economy as a result.”

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