What’s good in Peterborough? Annual Butterfly Run returns this weekend

The Peterborough Butterfly Run 5K Run/Walk is set to return to Millennium Park on Sunday, offering both an in-person and virtual option for participants.

Organized by GPHSF, Your Family Health Team Foundation, in collaboration with the race committee and the Partners In Pregnancy Clinic, the annual event aims to support families experiencing pregnancy and infant loss.

Registration is now open online at PeterboroughButterflyRun.itsyourrace.com and in-person at Runner’s Life, located at 174 Charlotte Street.

PTBOTODAY.ca spoke with Executive Director Vince Bierworth.

This year’s event welcomes new co-chairs Ashley Hickson and Kori Zwarych, who have been involved in the run for years. “We are excited to have a more prominent role on the Executive Committee,” they said in a joint statement. “We are working on furthering initiatives with the money raised to help support families with their grief and look forward to another successful event.”

Bierworth says money raised goes to specific places.

The event schedule remains consistent with past years:

9:00 a.m. – Registration opens
10:00 a.m. – 1K Kids Fun Run ($5 registration)
10:20 a.m. – 1K Memorial Walk (free)
10:45 a.m. – Opening ceremonies
11:00 a.m. – 5K chip-timed run/walk ($45 registration)
All registered participants will receive a medal and customizable race bib. Those who signed up for the 5K before April 4, 2025, will also receive a race shirt and additional race kit items.

Dave Dame of Runner’s Life will serve as race director this year, bringing his experience to ensure a smooth event.

Motorist should also take note of temporary road closures for the area. Engleburn Avenue and Birdsall Street will be closed from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. between Charles and Maria Streets. Local traffic will be permitted, but runners are expected between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. A full closure of Maria Street between Burnham and Mark Streets is also planned from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m

The Peterborough Butterfly Run, first launched in 2017, continues to grow as a vital community event, providing support and remembrance for families navigating loss.

(Written by: Jordan Mercier)