#summerunplugged features a full slate of one-of-a-kind offerings for individuals and families!
The world’s largest collection of canoes, kayaks and paddled watercraft has inspired a full slate of one-of-a-kind offerings for visitors this summer. Individuals and families alike are encouraged to make, paddle, play and connect at The Canadian Canoe Museum.
“This summer we’re thrilled to be welcoming visitors from near and far. And, we’re rolling out the red carpet with an array of offerings for all ages. Whether you’re visiting us for the first time, or already know and love the museum, there are so many new reasons to spend time with us this summer – make, paddle, play and connect right here,” says Karen Taylor, Director of Programs.
The museum’s #summerunplugged initiative will see ongoing offerings, like a new drop-in-to-draw activity; interactive water station; and pop-up exhibits throughout the summer. There are also opportunities to attend artisan workshops; artisan, artist and author meet and greets; and paddling courses. Contribute to our textile canoe project and attend the Wapikoni Film Festival – also on the horizon.
Make at the Museum
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Offering |
Date & Time |
Details |
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Draw something! Slow down, and using an artist-quality kit, explore the artifacts and stories that connect us all by canoe. |
Drop-in-to-draw anytime during regular museum hours. |
$2 or free for members. |
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Create your own postcard as you discover a new collection of canoe-themed items including sheet music, records and beautiful vintage postcards. |
Starting July 25th. |
Included with admission or membership. |
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Carve a souvenir paddle! |
July 25th, 5:30pm to 8:30pm, $35. |
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Make a one-of-a-kind woodburned paddle! |
August 17th, 9am to 5pm, $180. |
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Take part in creating a 14-foot wire and textile canoe in the galleries, a collaborative community art project led by Ottawa-based textile artist, Vanessa Coplan. |
August 22nd – September 2 Ages 8 to adult. |
Included with admission or membership. |
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Make a cross-stitch bookmark inspired by designs and patterns on the canoes in the collection. |
August 31st & September 2nd, 10:30 am to 4:30pm. |
Included with admission or membership. Learn more about drop-in crafts. |
Paddle with the Museum
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Offering |
Date & Time |
Details |
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Learn to paddle a canoe at our introductory-level Safe Canoeing evening program. |
Beginners, age 16+, no experience necessary, all equipment provided.
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Hone your paddling skills with Level 1 or Level 2/3 ORCKA paddling certification over the course of one or two summer evenings. |
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Experience the Peterborough Lift Lock by Voyageur Canoe. A 90-minute guided tour by canoe of this National Historic Site. |
No experience necessary. $25/pp, or book the whole boat (up to 16 paddlers) for a private tour for $300. |
Play at the Museum
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Offering |
Date & Time |
Details |
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Race canoes along our new interactive water station. |
Preview at our booth at Peterborough Pulse on July 27th, and start splashing at the museum on July 28th. |
Included with admission or membership. |
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Create a magnetic fishing rod and felted fish to play with in our “pool” and take home after your visit. |
July 27th and August 5th, 10:30am to 4:30 pm. Ages 6+ or younger with help. |
Included with admission or membership. Learn more about our drop-in kids’ activities |
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Explore our collection of canoeing accessories in our interactive pop-up ‘Retro Camping’ exhibit. |
Starting August 8th. |
Included with admission or membership. |
Connect at the Museum
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Offering |
Date & Time |
Details |
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Connect with the stories of our collection with our new interactive Collection Highlights tours. |
Daily at 2:30pm! First-come, first-served, 45 minutes, maximum of 10 per tour. |
Included with admission or membership. For larger groups and custom dates, please contact [email protected] |
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Connect to a local story! Donated by Peterborough local paddler Doris Vallery, come see a unique Rice Lake Canoe Company, Herald’s Patent canoe, never before on display, |
Starting July 19th. |
Included with admission or membership. |
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Find inspiration in Victoria Jason’s incredible paddling story. The first woman to kayak the Northwest Passage, Victoria was known to help others whenever she could – including during her travels. We’re re-installing a mini-exhibition featuring Victoria Jason’s story. |
Starting August 22nd. |
Included with admission or membership. |
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Connect with Indigenous filmmakers at the Wapikoni Cinema on Wheels. |
Thursday August 29, 7:30pm. |
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The Tumblehome Shop presents Trading Post Thursdays! Discover the unique work of local artisans, artists, and authors. |
Thursday evenings 5 to 7pm. |
Have one-on-one conversations, ask questions and see the creative process in action! More information below. |
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