Events and Recreation

As Labour Day weekend approaches, I am pleased to welcome fiddlers, stepdancers, families, and visitors to Pembroke for the 48th annual Canadian Fiddle and Stepdance Championship.

This event has been a longstanding tradition in our community, bringing generations of talented musicians and dancers to Pembroke. This year marks an exciting new chapter as the competition takes on national championship status, recognizing the reputation it has built over nearly five decades.

To everyone joining us from outside the area, whether you are camping at Fiddle Park in Riverside Park or staying at one of our great local hotels and motels, welcome to Pembroke. I hope you enjoy your time in our city and have an opportunity to experience everything our community has to offer during your stay.

The festivities begin Sunday, August 30, when Riverside Park once again becomes Fiddle Park for a week of camping, music, dancing, and gathering with friends old and new. The championship competition takes place September 4 and 5 at Festival Hall @ L’Équinoxe, 401 Isabella St. Playdowns begin September 4 at 1 p.m. and continue at 6 p.m., with another round September 5 at 10 a.m. The championship finals begin September 5 at 6:30 p.m.

I encourage Pembroke residents to take in some of the competition and help us give a warm welcome to the talented performers and visitors coming to our community. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience the music, dancing, and traditions that are an important part of the culture of Pembroke and the Ottawa Valley.

An event with a history as long as this one does not happen without a tremendous amount of work behind the scenes. On behalf of Council and the City of Pembroke, I congratulate the Pembroke Fiddling Association organizing committee on the 48th edition of this special event. Thank you to the committee and the many volunteers who give their time and energy each year. Your dedication to this event, our community, and our local culture is greatly appreciated.

As we enjoy the festivities, I also want to wish everyone a safe and happy Labour Day long weekend. This is a busy weekend on our roads, and unfortunately, we know serious collisions can occur. Whether you are travelling to Pembroke, heading out of town, or simply making your way around the community, please drive carefully, be patient with others on the road, and never drive impaired. Let’s all do our part to ensure everyone gets where they are going safely.

I wish all competitors the best of luck, and I hope residents and visitors alike enjoy a safe and memorable Fiddle Week in Pembroke.

Mayor Ron Gervais

The City of Pembroke is beginning preparations for its 200th anniversary in 2028, marking an important milestone in the community’s history and setting the stage for a year of celebration, reflection, and connection.

Following the success of Pembroke’s centennial celebrations in 1928 and sesquicentennial celebrations in 1978, the bicentennial will build on that legacy while looking ahead to the future of the community. Planning is now underway to develop a series of events, projects, and initiatives that will recognize Pembroke’s history, celebrate its people, and bring residents together.

Central to this work is a community-driven approach. A 200th Anniversary Advisory Committee has been established, supported by six working groups focused on heritage and history, legacy projects and beautification, events and festivals, community engagement and education, branding and promotion, and funding and partnerships. These groups are made up of community volunteers working alongside staff and members of Council to help guide the planning process and ensure the celebration reflects Pembroke as a whole.

While plans will continue to evolve, residents can expect a range of initiatives leading up to and throughout 2028. These include heritage projects such as a commemorative book and storytelling initiatives, improvements to public spaces and parks, and a full calendar of events. A major highlight will be a Homecoming Week celebration, bringing together residents past and present for a series of community events, performances, and gatherings.

“This is an opportunity to celebrate where we’ve come from and where we’re going,” said Mayor Ron Gervais. “Pembroke has a proud history, and this milestone will give us a chance to bring people together, recognize our shared experiences, and showcase everything that makes this community special.”

The City is encouraging former residents, friends and neighbours around the Ottawa Valley, and visitors to plan to return to Pembroke in 2028 to take part in the celebrations.

More details will be shared as planning continues. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and watch for updates as new initiatives and opportunities to get involved are announced in the coming months.