Peterborough’s annual Doors Open event returns on Sept. 12, giving residents and visitors the chance to tour a dozen sites normally closed to the public or not routinely open for visits. The free, day-long program runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and this year includes five new stops that broaden the event’s focus beyond heritage homes to civic infrastructure and community services.
New stops expand the event’s scope
Organizers say the additions demonstrate a wider view of what counts as local heritage — encompassing not only historic architecture but also the facilities and services that keep the city running. New for 2026 are the city organics facility, the wastewater treatment plant, Hospice Peterborough, the former Examiner building, and a straw-bale sleeping cabin at Camp Kawartha, scheduled for a special showing on Sept. 13 at the Camp Kawartha site in Douro-Dummer Township.
- Doors Open Peterborough: Sept. 12, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
- Camp Kawartha straw-bale cabin: Sept. 13 (special showing)
- Two guided walks on Sept. 12: Little Lake Cemetery; Inverlea Bridge to Goose Pond
Stewart Hamilton, chair of the Peterborough Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee (PACAC), said the city is especially well positioned to host Doors Open and that the event has particular appeal to newcomers wanting to learn the city’s story. PACAC is a long-time partner and coordinator for Doors Open in Peterborough.
“Doors Open remains a testament to the value of PACAC and the work it does to ensure built heritage is preserved.”
Guided walks, civic facilities and heritage sites
Alongside the indoor visits, Doors Open will offer two guided historic walks. One walk will explore Little Lake Cemetery, a site of local historical significance, while the second will proceed from Inverlea Bridge to Goose Pond. Information on meeting points and tour times is available on the city website.
Organizers have emphasised safety and accessibility considerations for the various stops. Some sites may have limited capacity or require guided access; participants are advised to consult the official Doors Open Peterborough listings for details on each location’s hours, accessibility and any participation requirements.
| New Stop | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| City organics facility | Civic infrastructure | Shows municipal organics processing |
| Wastewater treatment plant | Civic infrastructure | Behind-the-scenes look at water treatment |
| Hospice Peterborough | Community service | Facility tour and community programming |
| Former Examiner building | Historic building | Architectural and historical interest |
| Camp Kawartha straw-bale cabin | Experimental/eco-building | Shown Sept. 13 at Camp Kawartha site |
What residents should know
Doors Open offers an opportunity to understand the breadth of Peterborough’s built environment — from older landmarks to modern municipal operations. The event is free, but because some sites have limited space, early arrival is recommended. Full details, including the complete list of Doors Open stops, scheduled walk times and any special instructions for visitors, are posted on the City of Peterborough website.
For many residents — particularly those new to the area — the event can serve as an easy, low-cost orientation to the city’s heritage and essential services. For heritage advocates, Doors Open acts as an outreach tool that highlights the ongoing work of PACAC to conserve and interpret Peterborough’s built fabric.
Details and updated schedules are available at www.peterborough.ca. Those planning to attend should check the site before heading out in case of last-minute changes.
