Peterborough, ON – August 5, 2025 — Peterborough Musicfest is turning up the volume on Irish Week with a double bill that blends raw rock energy and traditional Celtic spirit. On Wednesday, August 6, the Fred Anderson Stage at Del Crary Park will host Canadian Celtic rock legends Mudmen alongside rising fiddle sensation Irish Millie. The event is part of the festival’s 38th season and coincides with Bicentennial 2025 celebrations, marking 200 years since the arrival of the Irish Peter Robinson settlers.
The performance sits within Peterborough Musicfest’s special Irish Week programming, which began August 2 and continues through August 9. These festivities align with the citywide Nine Ships 1825 commemorative events that honour the lasting Irish influence in the region.
Mudmen Bring Celtic Rock Power to the Stage
Headlining the night are the Mudmen, a band synonymous with high-octane Celtic rock. Known for their electrifying bagpipes-meet-guitar sound and explosive stage presence, the group has built a 25-year career that has taken them from pubs to major international stages. Formed by founding brothers Robby and Sandy Campbell—both master bagpipers—the band also features Colin Amey (vocals/guitar), Andy Ginerich (drums), Emmett Glacie (bass), and Alex Showdra (electric guitar).
Originally performing as The Campbell Brothers, Mudmen have amassed an impressive list of career highlights. Their music has been featured on WWE Wrestling, Hockey Night in Canada, The Black Donnellys, Shameless, and in video games. They’ve played for the Queen of England, entertained crowds at Grey Cups and Memorial Cups, and even appeared at Canada’s Walk of Fame events.
Irish Millie Opens with Virtuoso Fiddle Skills
The evening’s opening act will be Peterborough’s own Irish Millie, an 18-year-old fiddle prodigy who began her musical journey at just three years old after attending a Natalie MacMaster performance. Picking up the fiddle at six, she has since become a three-time Canadian Folk Music Award nominee. Her music blends Old Time fiddle traditions with a contemporary edge, resulting in a style that is both deeply rooted and refreshingly modern.
Now studying Music Industry and Technology at the University of Toronto, Millie has released notable projects including Thirteen and Grace, recorded with her father, Murray. She has performed across Canada and in Denmark, earning recognition for both her technical skill and emotive performances. Her appearance at Musicfest is sponsored by Nine Ships 1825 in celebration of Irish heritage.
Free Music, Food, and Community Spirit
The festivities kick off with Happy Hour food deals from 5:00–6:00 p.m., offering a variety of local vendor fare. The concert begins at 8:00 p.m., and—like all Musicfest shows—admission is completely free, thanks to the support of sponsors, government funding, fundraising, and private donations.
With stunning views of Little Lake, a community-focused atmosphere, and a lineup that spans generations and genres, Peterborough Musicfest continues to be a summer highlight. For more information on the full lineup, visit www.ptbomusicfest.ca or follow @ptbomusicfest. Details on Bicentennial 2025 and Nine Ships 1825 are available at www.nineships1825.com.
Evan McKenzie is a contributor at Vaughantoday.ca, covering a wide range of topics including local news, politics, business, technology, sports, entertainment, and lifestyle. He focuses on clear, balanced reporting that helps readers stay informed about current events and issues that matter to their communities. His work aims to provide useful information, timely updates, and relevant stories presented in an accessible and reader-friendly way.