KawarthaNOW has released its weekly nightlife guide, featuring numerous live music performances at pubs and restaurants across Peterborough and surrounding areas from December 25 to 31, 2025. The listings include holiday concerts, open mics, and New Year's Eve parties with various local acts. Musicians and venues can submit details for future inclusions via email.
The guide, published on December 25, 2025, compiles events submitted by performers and establishments in the greater Kawarthas area. It focuses exclusively on live music by bands and solo artists, excluding karaoke unless specified, and notes that other activities like DJ sets may occur alongside.
Starting December 26, Arthur's Pub in Cobourg hosts GIbbran from 8 to 11 p.m., followed by Ryan Forsythe on December 27 in the same slot. On December 29, the venue features a local talent night with Elliot Brown from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.
At Black Horse Pub in Peterborough, December 28 brings Doug Horner from 5 to 8 p.m. and The Fabulous Tonemasters from 9 p.m. to midnight, with Rocky Islander from 4 to 7 p.m. and Crash & Burn with Rick & Gailie from 7 to 10 p.m. The week ends on December 31 with Joslynn Burford from 5 to 8 p.m. and Crooked Archers featuring Bridget Foley at 9 p.m.
New Year's Eve celebrations are prominent elsewhere. Dusk to Dawn Brewing Co. in Millbrook schedules Tyler Koke from 5 to 8 p.m., while Jethro's Bar + Stage in Peterborough offers a party with The Space Heaters at 9 p.m. Pig's Ear Tavern hosts Babe Chorus and My Fair Lady for $5 entry at 9 p.m., and The Venue presents Burning Bridges and Bootleg XXX for $75 starting at 8 p.m.
Other highlights include the Miracle Territory Holiday Concert at The John at Sadleir House on December 27, featuring Kay Silver and Aniqa Dear for $20 admission. Olympia Restaurant in Lindsay offers live jazz from 5 to 8:30 p.m., and Porch & Pint in Peterborough has Tami J Wilde with Katie Bath from 2 to 5:30 p.m.
Venues like McThirsty's Pint and The Thirsty Goose also feature acts such as Cale Crowe and James Higgins. The listings extend into early January with events like Charlie Horse at Black Horse Pub on January 2. For submissions, contact nightlife@kawarthanow.com.
