There’s something about this time of year. The days are getting longer, but you’re still longing for something cozy and comforting. And not just any comfort food. We’re talking warm, melty, indulgent, forkful-after-forkful of happiness. Whether you’re after a little escape, an opportunity to reconnect with your people, or a little solo mission to treat yourself. Peterborough has you covered in April.
That’s right. Peterborough’s legendary Mac & Cheese Festival is back, and it might just be the coziest (and cheesiest) way to experience the city.
Quick Bites: What You Need to Know
What? Downtown Peterborough Mac & Cheese Festival
When? April 1–25, 2026
Where? 20+ restaurants across downtown Peterborough
Why Go? The ultimate comfort food crawl—creative, cozy and completely delicious
Don’t Miss: The Grand Finale at Quaker Square on April 25!
Turn Your Weekend Into a Tasty Quest
Forget picking just one restaurant. This is your chance to wander through Peterborough’s vibrant downtown, pop into somewhere new, and build your own flavour-filled itinerary. With over 20 participating restaurants, the festival turns Peterborough’s streets into a choose-your-own-adventure food crawl.
Start with a classic at Dreams of Beans. Follow it up with something bold like the Smoked Sweet Whiskey Heat Mac and Cheese at The Back 40 Smokehouse made with a rich, smoky queso hot sauce for a gentle kick and finished with crispy onions for a satisfying crunch. Then, end with something totally unexpected like the Mac and Biscoff Tiramisu at Lóla Cakes and Coffee for a sweet and playful twist.
Let’s Dish About the Menu
This month, mac and cheese is the star and Peterborough’s chefs are taking things beyond the basics. This is where comfort meets creativity, and where Ontario’s culinary scene really shines.
Think smoky BBQ brisket and gooey aged cheddar come sandwiched between two slices of twelve grain. Mexican street corn meets creamy, cheesy perfection (a little corny!). There’s even a fully loaded steakhouse mac topped with striploin, made for sharing. And don’t miss the plant-based creations that are just as rich and satisfying—jackfruit mac? Yes please!
Every dish tells a different story, reflecting the diversity and imagination of Peterborough’s local food scene. It’s indulgent, a little over-the-top, and exactly what you want right now!
A Delicious Reason to Get Away
If you’ve been looking for a low-effort getaway idea, this is it. Peterborough is just 90 minutes from Toronto, but the vibe? Totally different.
Spend the afternoon browsing local shops. Stop in for a drink and some live music at a cozy café or pub. Then dive into your mac and cheese lineup for the day. Stay overnight, sleep in, and do it all again (Judgement? You’ll have to look elsewhere for that).
It’s easy, it’s fun, and it feels like a treat, without needing a big plan.
Taste, Vote, Repeat
Every bite comes with a little friendly competition.
As you explore, you can vote for your favourite dish and help crown this year’s “Big Cheese.” Whether you’re team classic or all about the boldest creation on the menu, your opinion counts.
Save Room for the Grand Finale
Mark your calendar for April 25th, when the festival wraps up with a high-energy Grand Finale at Quaker Foods City Square. Here, you can expect crowd-favourite eats, live music, family-friendly fun and beverages to pair with your mac. It’s the perfect way to celebrate a month of incredible food—and maybe squeeze in one last bite (or three).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need tickets for the festival?
Nope! The Mac & Cheese Festival is a self-guided experience. Just show up at participating restaurants and order from their festival menu items.
How many restaurants are participating?
More than 20 restaurants in downtown Peterborough are serving up unique mac and cheese creations throughout the festival.
Can I do it all in one day?
You can… but we recommend pacing yourself. Turn it into a weekend (or two) and make the most of your downtown escape.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes! Several restaurants are offering plant-based mac and cheesy goodness that’s just as comforting and delicious.
Is there a winner?
We get it. You like a little friendly competition. You can vote all month long for the top mac! We will celebrate together at the Peterborough Mac and Cheese Festival’s Grand Finale at Quaker Foods City Square is a separate event on April 25. Perfect for sampling, celebrating, and soaking up the festival atmosphere.
Where can I see the full list of participating restaurants and menus?
Check out the downtown Peterborough (The Boro) website for menus, updates, and voting details.
Come Hungry and Leave Happy. Your Cheesy Escape to Peterborough Awaits!
So go ahead. Plan the outing, text your friends, and come hungry.
Because right now? A cheesy little escape sounds exactly like just what we all need right now.
