25th Annual Peterborough Children's Water Festival
May 27-28, 2027
Inspiring students in grades 2-5 to become water champions!
Held alongside the Odenabe (Otonabee River) at Riverview Park & Zoo, students experience 40 curriculum-connected activity centres and enjoy a day of hands-on learning on water-related topics, including conservation, water attitudes, technology, protection, and science.
The PCWF works in partnership with educators, water quality specialists, conservation groups, industry and government to create this yearly festival.
The 2026 PWCF: A Splashing Success!
The 24th annual Peterborough Children’s Water Festival (PCWF) took place at the Riverview Park and Zoo on May 27 & 28, 2026. During the festival:
- ~1,400 youth in grades 2-5 attended from 31 local schools;
- 35+ hands-on activity centres connected youth to water conservation and protection;
- Cross-curricular activities tapped into science, social studies, math, and transferable language skills;
- ~150 high school students ran the activity centres in French and English, gaining valuable leadership skills;
- Over 50 community volunteers helped this free event happen.
Feedback from the 2026 Water Festival
The Peterborough Water Festival provided our students with an engaging, hands-on learning experience that deepened their understanding of environmental stewardship, and the importance of protecting our water resources. Thanks to the generous subsidization support, all students were able to participate in meaningful activities that inspired curiosity, learning, and a greater appreciation for the natural world. We are truly grateful for the opportunity this support provided our class!
~Mary-Ellen Moore, Grade 3 Teacher at Lakefield District PS
I think it was great to see a free local learning opportunity for students that highlighted our area. Many of our students have families that can't afford to do a lot of activities on the weekends. So this was a great way to make sure everyone made a positive, lasting memory.
~Paul Wilson, Grade 4 Teacher at Kaawaate East City PS
My students definitely learned more about the uses of water and where they can find water. Some of my students were making connections to things they learned about in science this year such as buoyancy.
~Stephanie Mose, Grade 2 Teacher at Monsignor O’Donaghue CES
Want to start a #WaterWednesday in your classroom?
Find locally-focused virtual water education for your classroom here!