City of Peterborough Celebrates National Tourism Week

Peterborough is a place where arts and culture come alive with music and festivals, where unique attractions and culinary gems await, sporting events bring people together, and nature surrounds the city as the largest urban centre along the historic and headline-making Trent–Severn Waterway.

From April 7 to 11, the City of Peterborough joins communities across the country in marking National Tourism Week 2025, an annual initiative led by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada. This year’s theme, Canada: Powered by Tourism, highlights the sector’s national impact — contributing more than $100 billion annually and supporting one in 10 jobs across Canada.

Locally, tourism plays a vital role in Peterborough’s economy and quality of life. The City and surrounding area welcome more than three million visitors each year, who contribute approximately $300 million to the local economy. In the Peterborough census subdivision, the tourism sector includes more than 400 businesses and supports more than 3,000 jobs. Peterborough continues to gain international recognition through tourism, with iconic attractions like the Trent–Severn Waterway and The Canadian Canoe Museum making headlines in 2025.

“Much of what makes Peterborough a sought-after destination for visitors also makes it an incredible place to live,” says Mayor Jeff Leal. “National Tourism Week is an opportunity to celebrate the impact of tourism on our community and economy. It supports local jobs, fuels small businesses, and showcases the natural beauty and cultural vibrancy that make our city special. During the week, I hope everyone takes a moment to recognize the people and places that make Peterborough a destination worth exploring and sharing with friends from around the world.”

Residents and visitors are encouraged to share their favourite local experiences on social media using #TourismWeekCanada2025, tagging @ptbotourism, and visiting ptbotourism.ca to learn more about attractions and experiences in the city.