24th Annual
Peterborough Children's Water Festival
May 27-28, 2026
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.
Notes from last year's PWCF: A Splashing Success!
2025 marked the 23rd Peterborough Children’s Water Festival (PCWF) at the Riverview Park and Zoo on May 27 & 28. 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 community event happen.
This was our first year (hopefully of many!) attending the PCWF. What a fabulous day of gaining understanding and respect for our water in such a fun and engaging way!
~Alicia Morrallee - KPRDSB, Grade 2/3
It was such a wonderful experience for my students. Each activity was meaningful and engaging enough that it captivated the attention of grade 5s! Such a wonderful experience! Thank you.
~Kristin Manol PVNCCDSB, Grade 5
The PCWF is a great tradition for our school. Students love learning about water conservation & sanitation. The centres were engaging and the students had a blast! Thank you!
~Andrea Raine PVNCCDSB, Grade 3
Want to start your own #WaterWednesday?
Find locally-focused virtual water education for your classroom here!