Adult Leisure

McDonnel Street Community Centre

Discover a world of leisure at the McDonnel Street Community Centre, one of Peterborough's newest recreation hubs! Unleash your competitive spirit with our exciting calendar of drop-in recreation programs, including: darts, shuffleboard, and short mat bowling. If you're looking to add more fitness to your regimen, consider joining a drop-in chair exercise class, or stomp into the line dancing registration! Designed for adults but appealing to the young at heart, these activities provide the perfect combination of fun, fitness, and socialization. 

McDonnel Street Community Centre is located at 577 McDonnel St. just east of the Monaghan Road intersection. 

Read more about:

  • Drop-in programs including short mat bowling, shuffleboard, group fitness, table tennis
  • Registered programs including painting workshops, darts, qigong, line dancing, and education opportunities

June is Recreation and Parks Month and Seniors Month!

June is a time to celebrate connection, wellness, and community as we recognize both June is Recreation and Parks Month and June is Seniors Month! Throughout the month, we invite older adults to join us for a wide variety of fun, active, and creative leisure programs designed to bring people together and keep our community thriving. Best of all, every program in June will be completely free to participate in—including all drop-in activities, which are normally $3.50 per visit—making it the perfect opportunity to try something new, stay active, and enjoy time with others.

Program Cancellations

  • No Programs on Monday, May 18 (Victoria Day)
  • Tuesday, June 16: No Drop-In Shuffleboard
  • Wednesday, June 17: Community Care Drop-Ins, Zumba Gold (9:00 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.), Standing Warm-Up and Weights (10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.) and Seated Warm-Up and Weights (11:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.)

Events

Living Well Seniors Showcase - one of the largest senior trade shows in Canada!

Wednesday, June 17: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Location: Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre

The Living Well Senior Showcase features 100+ exhibitors & 10 workshops. It is the show to reach Peterborough and the Kawarthas' largest demographic. Peterborough is home to over 27,000 senior residents, making it one of the most vibrant seniors' communities in the country! That is why the Annual Senior Showcase brings together over 100 exhibitors that offer products and services for seniors and their families all under one roof. In addition to all of the amazing exhibitors, the show offers free workshops for seniors and their families all day, making it a one-stop shop for products, services, and education.

Drop-In Programs

All drop-in programs cost $3.50 per participant, per visit. Please plan to bring exact cash, only. 

  • Participants are encouraged to bring clean, indoor shoes.
  • Doors open at times listed. Play begins within 30 minutes of doors open. Plan to arrive within this 30 minute window to sign-in, pay your fee, learn the rules, meet other participants, and receive your play assignments (i.e. teammates or opponents, court or board to play on, etc.).
  • All Adult Leisure drop-in programs listed are currently located at the McDonnel Street Community Centre. 
  • If there are no participants within the first 30 minutes of the scheduled doors open, the activity will be cancelled for that day. 
  • Membership at the Peterborough Sport & Wellness Centre does not waive drop-in fees for Adult Leisure activities.

Short Mat Bowling is an indoor sport in which players attempt to score points by rolling a biased ball (bowl) along a flat surface, trying to land it closer to the jack than their opponent. Participants are encouraged to bring their own bowls, although extra sets are available for use.

Short Mat Bowling has concluded for the season, and will resume October, 2026.

 

The object of shuffleboard (indoor, floor) is to propel discs using a cue onto a target shaped like a pyramid at the opposite end of the court - to score, to prevent opponent from scoring, or both.

Tuesdays

  • Doors open at 9 a.m., play begins at 9:30 a.m.
  • Approximately two hours of play

Test your precision and aim in friendly competition with fellow Darts enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a novice, we encourage all skill levels to join. Enjoy camaraderie, improve your game, and aim for the bullseye in a fun and welcoming atmosphere. A Typical drop-in will involve playing a couple rounds of the traditional "501" dart game, followed by a round of "Cricket". Participants are encouraged to bring their own set of darts, although many spare sets are available to borrow.

  • Thursdays
    • Doors open at 12:30 p.m., play begins at 1 p.m.
    • Approximately 2 hours of play

Zumba Gold

Wednesdays 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m.

Zumba Gold is led by fitness instructor Jasmine Murray, and the class is hosted by Community Care Peterborough. It is a lower intensity version of the traditional Zumba class. Jasmine leads a fun, energy filled fitness class choreographed to upbeat, popular music geared to the older adult demographic. The goal of this class is to get moving and have fun! The class is free to participate in, and is a drop-in (no registration required).

Warm up and Weights

  • Wednesdays 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. (Standing)
  • Wednesdays 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. (Seated) - New as of June 2026

Warm Up and Weights is an all-around fitness class for older adults. The 10 a.m. timeslot is mostly standing, with some seated exercise. The 11 a.m. timeslot is mostly seated, with some standing exercise. Through bodyweight and dumbbell exercises, this class will help you improve your muscle strength, endurance, stability, and mobility. Please bring your own weights if you have them.

Serve up some fun in our Drop-In Table Tennis program—no registration required! A drop-in fee of $3.50 must be paid at the customer service desk, where you'll receive a receipt as proof of payment, which is your ticket to play. Need gear? Paddles and balls are available at the front desk for your convenience. Whether you're working on your spin or just here for a friendly match, all skill levels are welcome.

Tuesdays & Thursdays:

  • Miskin Law Community Complex
  • 12 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
  • $3.50 per player, payable at the front desk
  • Tables can be found just off the walking track, southwest corner

Registered Programs

Each of the programs listed below require advanced registration. Participants can choose to register online, register over the phone by calling 705-742-0050, or register in person at the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre or Miskin Law Community Complex during regular operating hours.

Dart League will return for a Fall 2026 session. Check back here for more information about dates and cost.

Qigong involves the cultivation of energy and awareness through movement, posture, and breathing.  The overarching goal of our Qigong practice is to enhance long-term quality of life. Qi refers to the bio-magnetic energy found within all living things. It circulates in natural patterns through channels called meridians and vessels. Qigong leads energy through these channels helping to open up points blocked by physical, mental, or emotional stress. We move to generate heat, stand to activate qi, and sit to quiet the mind. In so doing, our Qigong practice helps us to counter the negative effects of sedentary living and stress.

May 19 - July 7

August 4 - August 25

Line dancing is fun for all ages and has fantastic music, gives you choreographed aerobic exercise, improves your confidence, and teaches you basic footwork that you can use in any dance situation. You will meet new friends and have a blast learning dance steps for a variety of new and old songs. Line dancing also improves cardiovascular health; brain memory and makes you feel good. If you've never tried line dancing, now is the time! Grab your dancing shoes (or running shoes or cowboy boots) and join in on the fun!

Tuesdays, May 19 - June 23

The shuffleboard league will resume in the near future. Check back for more information.

 

You're invited: Monthly Hot Lunches & Social Hour for Seniors!

A special adult leisure program designed with older adults & seniors in mind. Each month, we'll serve a hearty, chef-prepared lunch featuring classic favourites and seasonal specialties - made to nourish both body & soul. But it's more than just a meal - it's a chance to reconnect, relax, and enjoy some meaningful conversation with friends old and new in a welcoming, social setting. We'll also have cards and games available to enjoy over coffee or tea when you're done eating. Whether you come for the food, the laughter, or the friendly faces, you'll leave feeling full in every sense of the word.

Wednesday, June 24, 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Croissant & Ciabatta Sandwiches & Veggie Trays catered by "That's a Wrap"
Course Code: 00086058, or register here

 

Unlock new skills and confidence with our enriching workshops designed especially for adults 55+. Whether you’re looking to stay safe online, get comfortable with everyday technology, or try out popular communication apps, our sessions make learning approachable, enjoyable, and empowering. Each workshop is guided by friendly instructors who meet you where you are, creating a supportive space to explore, ask questions, and grow. Step in with curiosity—step out with knowledge you can use every day.

Workshop: Comfort & Joy Tech Tour - 'Appy' Hour"

  • Free to attend, registration required
  • Wednesday, June 24, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
  • Course ID: 00085351 to register or register online
  • Join Jenn Gerynowicz, Founder of Techie Nesters, to learn how to use your phone in ways that support connection, confidence, and independence. Through simple APP demos and real-life examples, you’ll leave feeling more comfortable and in control. The presentation includes free hands-on tech help with tablets and phones, so be sure to grab your handheld tech to bring with you to this workshop!

Workshop: Back Pain in Older Adults, Separating Fact from Myth, Facilitated by Peterborough Community Health Care

  • Free to attend, registration required
  • Thursday, June 25, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
  • Course ID: 00085877 to register, or register online
    Low back pain is very common in older adults and can make everyday activities harder. This session looks at common myths about back pain and helps clear up misunderstandings that can lead to fear or avoiding movement. We use up-to-date evidence to explain what actually helps with back pain. The goal is to help people feel more confident moving and managing their back health. The first 45 minutes will be an educational presentation, followed by 15 minutes of questions & answers, as well as system navigation support. This presentation will be facilitated by Jared Barieau, Health Promoted and Ellie Henry, System Navigator from the Peterborough Community Health Centre.

Workshop: Skin Cancer Prevention and Early Detection, Facilitated by Peterborough Community Health Care

  • Free to attend, registration required
  • Wednesday, July 29, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
  • Course ID: 00086727 to register, or register online
    Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in Canada, but it is also one of the most preventable. Older adults are at increased risk due to lifelong sun exposure and cumulative UV damage. This interactive educational session will provide practical, evidence-based information about skin cancer prevention, sun safety, and early detection. Participants will learn how to recognize warning signs of skin cancer, understand Canadian sun safety recommendations, and perform simple skin self-checks at home. The session aims to increase confidence, reduce misinformation, and support healthy aging through prevention and early awareness. This presentation will be facilitated by Jared Barrieau, from the Peterborough Community Health Centre.

Join us for a welcoming series of creative art workshops designed for older adults, led by an experienced educator from the Art Gallery of Peterborough. Explore a variety of hands-on activities including painting, zine-making, and felting in a relaxed, supportive environment that is open to all skill levels and abilities. These workshops are a great opportunity to connect with others, express your creativity, and enjoy learning something new together.

Painting in the Park - Jackson Park 

  • Free to attend, registration required
  • Tuesday, June 23: 11:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
  • Course ID: 00085930 to register or register online 
  • Join Artist and AGP Educator Brooklin Holbrough as she takes you into one of Peterborough's beloved parks for a free afternoon of painting! Participants will meet at the picnic tables near the upper parking lot at Jackson Park (610 Parkhill Road West). Canvases, paint, brushes, and palettes will be provided. Participants are also welcome to bring their own supplies for use. Once all are gathered, Brooklin will introduce the concept of "en plein air" painting, and share her tips and tricks. This program is open to all abilities, so come enjoy some painting in the park as part of "June is Recreation and Parks Month" celebrations!

Workshop: Collage Zine-Making - Facilitated by Brooklin Holbrough from Art Gallery of Peterborough 

  • Free to attend, registration required
  • Thursday, June 25: 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
  • Course ID: 00085930 to register or register online 
  • Monday, June 29: 2:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
  • Course ID: 00085932 to register or register online 
  • This creative workshop invites participants to explore self-expression through the art of zine-making. Guided by the educator, students will learn how to fold and collage their own expressive art-zines using accessible mixed-media techniques. Through collage, found poetry, and unique visual compositions, participants will be encouraged to reflect, experiment, and share their perspectives in a supportive environment. The program emphasizes mindful and therapeutic art-making practices, fostering creativity, self-awareness, and personal expression through process-based art experiences.

Workshop: Needle-Felted Mouse - Facilitated by Brooklin Holbrough from Art Gallery of Peterborough 

  • Free to attend, registration required
  • Thursday, July 9: 2:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
  • Course ID: 00085933 to register or register online 
  • Tuesday, July 14: 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
  • Course ID: 00085934 to register or register online 
  • This hands-on needle-felting workshop invites older adults and seniors to learn the art of creating a small sculptural felted mouse. Guided by the educator, participants will be supported through each step of the process, from shaping wool fibres to adding charming details that bring their mouse to life. The workshop offers a welcoming and relaxed environment that encourages creativity, focus, and fine motor engagement while introducing the basics of sculptural needle-felting techniques. Participants will leave with a completed handmade mouse and foundational skills they can continue exploring at home.

Workshop: Folk-Art Painting - Facilitated by Brooklin Holbrough from Art Gallery of Peterborough 

  • Free to attend, registration required
  • Tuesday, August 18: 2:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
  • Course ID: 00085935 to register or register online 
  • Friday, August 21: 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m.
  • Course ID: 00085936 to register or register online 
  • This welcoming painting workshop invites adults to recreate a folk-art landscape painting while developing foundational painting techniques in a supportive environment. Guided step-by-step by the educator, participants will explore brush handling, colour application, and the use of flat planes of colour to build a vibrant illustrative composition. The workshop emphasizes creativity, confidence-building, and enjoyment of the painting process, making it suitable for beginners and experienced participants alike. Students will leave with enhanced painting skills and their own completed version of the source artwork.

4th Line Theatre: Schoolhouse 

  • Friday, July 10 - Bus leaves McDonnel Street CC (577 McDonnel Street) at 4:30 p.m.
  • Course ID: 00086131 to register or register online 
  • Arrive at 4th Line Theatre ~5 p.m.
  • Snacks & Refreshments 5-5:45 p.m.
  • Performance begins at 6 p.m.
    Take a trip back in time with us as we head to 4th Line Theatre for their production of Leanna Brodie's "Schoolhouse"! During this field trip, you'll enjoy an evening of storytelling, history, and live theatre in a beautiful outdoor setting. Your registration includes round-trip bus transportation, reserved seating for the performance, as well as snacks and refreshments to enjoy upon arrival. Don’t miss your chance to join the class for a scenic and entertaining performance. Set in 1938 in rural Ontario, "Schoolhouse" unfolds within S.S. #1 Jericho, a one-room school just outside the fictional village of Baker’s Creek. When 18-year-old Melita Linton—newly graduated from Normal School—takes on her first teaching position, she encounters a lively group of students and a community rooted in tradition. Rich with humour and humanity, "Schoolhouse" beautifully evokes a vanished era in Canadian rural history.

4th Line Theatre: Wild Irish Geese

  • Friday, August 14 - Bus leaves McDonnel Street CC (577 McDonnel Street) at 4:30 p.m.
  • Course ID: 00086132 to register or register online 
  • Arrive at 4th Line Theatre ~5 p.m.
  • Snacks & Refreshments 5-5:45 p.m.
  • Performance begins at 6 p.m.
    Step back in time and journey through local history with a trip to 4th Line Theatre for their production of Megan Murphy's "Wild Irish Geese". This performance tells the story of the 1825 migration of more than 2,000 Irish settlers who travelled across the Atlantic and eventually made their home in Scotts Plains — the community later renamed Peterborough. Travel together by bus as we retrace a piece of our region’s past, with reserved seating for the show as well as snacks and refreshments included along the way. Join us for an evening of storytelling, heritage, and connection as we explore the journeys that helped shape our local community. Set in the summer of 1825, "Wild Irish Geese" explores the 1825 migration of Irish, escaping tyranny and hopelessness during the Irish potato famine, for the promise of something better in far-off Canada. Eventually, over 2,000 impoverished Irish settled in Scotts Plains, later renamed Peterborough and began their lives anew. These new Canadians planted deep roots in the Peterborough area and have thousands of descendants both locally and across the globe.

These programs are produced by the Adult Leisure Program Seniors Active Living Centre with support from the Government of Ontario.

Contact Us

City Hall
500 George St. N.
Peterborough, ON
K9H 3R9

Phone: 705-742-7777
Toll Free: 1-855-738-3755
Email Us