Welcome

The Doors Open program seeks to celebrate, educate and inform citizens and visitors of the importance of the architectural, cultural and historical sites in Peterborough by allowing visitors free access to properties that are either not usually open to the public, or would normally charge an entrance fee. Many locations organize guided tours, displays and activities to enrich the visitor experience.

Doors Open Peterborough 2009 was a tremendous success thanks to our tireless volunteers, wonderful site managers and, of course, our enthusiatic visitors. Over 3000 visits were recorded - a tribute to the interest that we all have in Peterborough's heritage, culture and institutions.

In 2010, Doors Open Peterborough moves to a NEW weekend - the last one in September! Our dates will be Saturday, September 25 and Sunday, September 26. This will be the first time that Doors Open Peterborough has been a 2-day event. Saturday will feature site visits and guided walking tours. Sunday will be devoted solely to walking and bike tours. 

We have joined Kick It Up in the Kawarthas and will be cross-promoting our free heritage tours with other terrific events like the Kawartha Autumn Studio Tour and ArtsWeek. Check back regularly for more information about 2010 events.

Follow Doors Open Peterborough on Facebook, and check out the Historical Fact of the Week. 

History

The first Doors Open Day (La Journée Portes Ouvertes) took place in France in 1984. The idea soon spread to neighbouring countries, including the Netherlands, Sweden, the Republic of Ireland, Belgium and Scotland. In 1991, these events were united as European Heritage Days at the initiative of the Council of Europe. In 2003, all 48 signatory states of the European Cultural Convention participated in European Heritage Days.

In 2000, the City of Toronto launched the first Doors Open event in North America. In 2002, the Ontario Heritage Trust launched Doors Open Ontario, the first province-wide event of its kind in Canada. Peterborough has taken part in Doors Open Ontario every year since its inception.

The Doors Open concept continues to spread across North America with events now being held in Newfoundland, Alberta, Massachusetts, Western New York State, New York City and Denver. Click here for a list of Doors Open events outside of Ontario.