The largest operations within Peterborough are General Electric and Quaker Oats. Peterborough Regional Health Centre is now the largest company, with more than 2.000 employees. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Trent University are likewise a key economic contributor to the city.
The Trent-Severn Waterway includes the Peterborough Lift Lock, the globe's biggest hydraulic lift lock, which opened during the year 1904. Del Crary Park is located in downtown Peterborough, and is home to Peterborough Yacht Club. Its large urban greenspace on Little Lake could be utilized for free outdoor concerts and events during the summer months, and it is likewise the venue for the international Festival of Lights fireworks displays. The Riverview Park and Zoo is managed by the Peterborough Utilities Group. Admission is free, and everyone can access the miniature train rides, disc golf courses and animal exhibits. The Peterborough Skateboard park was recently made, and is considered to be among the largest skateboard parks within Ontario. It has lots of multiple ramps, rails, and several half-pipes. For annual events, there are Artsweek, Downtown Countdown, Festival of Trees, Simcoe Day, and Peterborough Kinsmen Santa Claus Parade. Artsweek is an annual arts celebration held during the month of September. Downtown Countdown is an alcohol/drug-free New Year's celebration. Festival of Trees is a fundraiser supporting local healthcare. It has a show of ornamented Christmas trees and various seasonally-themed displays during late November. Simcoe Day is the municipal holiday of Ontario held during the first Monday of August. Peterborough Kinsmen Santa Claus Parade is held on the first Saturday of December at 5:00 pm.
There are many recreational places to visit within the city. Among them consist of: Peterborough Marina, Peterborough Sports & Wellness Centre, Millennium Park, Del Crary Park, youth programs in six neighborhood centres, Queen Alexandra Community Centre, instructional sport programs, lifeguard supervision at six wading pools and two waterfront beaches, play programs at eight neighbourhood parks, sport field scheduling on 110 fields, swimming lessons and public swims, day camp activities, senior Services, children's Programming, wellness and fitness initiatives.