CEO MESSAGE
While cleaning out my tool shed a while back, I found an old hard hat with the words, “I helped raise the roof at BC Place Stadium” printed on it. I recall wearing the bright blue hard hat on November 14th, 1982, joining dozens of media, government officials and dignitaries on the floor of the dome as forced air slowly inflated the giant Teflon-covered, 255 tonne fibreglass roof.
Not long after, I celebrated my 21st birthday at the first major sporting event at BC Place (Whitecaps vs. Sounders), along with 60,341 of my closest friends. Less than a decade later I shared an office at the stadium as part of the BC Pavco team so I got to know the venue well and still possess a strong affection for it. To this day, I feel a sense of nostalgia every time I visit.
I have great memories of concerts featuring the likes of the Rolling Stones, U2, Pink Floyd, Guns n' Roses, Bon Jovi, Neil Young, Paul McCartney, and more recently Luke Bryan and Luke Combs. I also recall attending sporting events such as BC Lions’ games, Rugby Sevens, Whitecaps soccer, Grey Cups, exhibition NFL and Major League Baseball, as well as numerous trade shows and historic occasions such as the opening ceremonies for both Expo 86 and the Olympics.
Conversely, I have unpleasant memories of times, when in my communications role at PAVCO, I had to defend BC Place. You may recall that in the early nineties, after the novelty of having a new downtown stadium had worn off, government was criticized for subsidizing what some media misrepresented as an oversized, underused venue that was poorly designed and too expensive to operate. Thank goodness decision-makers of the day resisted calls to demolish the dome and sell the land to private interests. From a tourism perspective alone, imagine how many events we would have missed without it.
I was back at BC Place earlier this week for a media technical briefing to learn about preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. General Manager Chris May did an excellent job outlining the planned renovations for the dome to accommodate the sporting world’s single largest spectacle.
I saw Chris again two days later at the BCHA Summit in Whistler where he was part of a panel on large events and sport tourism. He pointed out that over the past year the stadium welcomed 74,000 out-of-town guests generating some $51m in economic impact. On the same panel, Tourism Richmond CEO Nancy Small touted the success of the Richmond Oval (originally built for the Olympics), where facility demand far exceeds capacity for both locals and visitors.
The success of both the Stadium and the Oval can be attributed in part to annual sales and marketing investments made by Destination Vancouver and Tourism Richmond using revenues generated through the Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT) applied to hotel room nights. Nancy cited MRDT numerous times as the catalyst to attracting sport, meetings, and leisure business to Richmond. Obviously the same holds true for Vancouver and virtually every other visitor-dependent community throughout the province. The underlying message was that MRDT is critical to attracting events to venues like BC Place and the Richmond Oval, requires ongoing support from the hotel community, and should not be further diluted in order to ensure that the tourism sector continues to contribute to the economic, social, environmental, and cultural well-being of our province. Thankfully the vast majority of hoteliers agree.
So why are we constantly in defence mode when it comes to BC’s leading-edge tourism funding system? Well, it’s because yet another municipality is calling for the entire MRDT system to be overhauled with a view to allow the funds to be used for non-tourism related infrastructure projects. This after the province completed (in 2023) a tourism system review that evaluated current funding mechanisms only to draw the conclusion that the MRDT system works exceptionally well and gives BC a competitive advantage…among other benefits…which we always knew to be the case. However, some elected officials don't know to leave well enough alone. Clearly TIABC’s advocacy efforts on the MRDT file at the civic level are far from over. More to come on this file in the weeks ahead.
Because I was never going to wear it, I ended up donating my “Raised the Roof” hard hat to the BC Sports Hall of Fame (BCSHOF) who were grateful to receive it. One day I hope my prairie grandkids will visit BCSHOF (which is located at BC Place) and see the hard hat (if it's on display) knowing that some of their grandfather’s greatest experiences took place inside this magnificent venue...which is not only gearing up for World Cup in 2026, but is getting set to welcome the Rolling Stones and Taylor Swift this year. Hope to see you there.
Walt Judas,
CEO, TIABC
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Province Provides Updates for FIFA
World Cup 26
With Vancouver now confirmed to host seven matches to be played in Vancouver during the FIFA World Cup 26 tournament, the Province, City of Vancouver and BC Pavilion Corporation (PavCo) have updated their estimates of the costs, revenues and economic benefits for the world’s largest single sporting event.
The gross core cost for FIFA World Cup 26 in Vancouver is estimated to be between $483m and $581m. These gross costs are expected to be offset by $383m to $436m in estimated revenues and recoveries. After taking into account estimated revenues and recoveries, the Province estimates the net core cost of seven FIFA World Cup 26 matches to be $100m to $145m. This does not take into account potential additional provincial tax revenues as identified in the Province’s updated estimates of economic impact benefits, which are projected to be $224m.
TIABC CEO Walt Judas provided government with the following comment in support of FIFA World Cup 26: “Bringing FIFA World Cup 26 matches to Vancouver supports local businesses and thousands of skilled professionals who work in B.C.'s vibrant and valuable tourism industry. When soccer fans from all over the world arrive in town for the seven matches, we have the opportunity to showcase our incredible tourism amenities and experiences to encourage visitors to return to British Columbia again and again.”
Read the full announcement, including links for provincial cost, revenue, economic benefit estimates for FIFA World Cup 26, and the City of Vancouver cost estimate for the event HERE.
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Emergency Preparedness Week|May 5-11
Next week is Emergency Preparedness Week in BC, and it's a great time to learn about getting prepared for emergencies.
The Province has a wealth of resources available including;
- Using technology in emergency management
- Knowing the hazards in your community, using the PreparedBC Hazard Map
- How to make an emergency plan
Also throughout the week DBC will be highlighting the Tourism Emergency Management Committee's (TEMC) work, messaging and resources through their newsletter, website, and LinkedIn, under the slogan “Prepare and Share”.
Here are a couple of examples:
Also to note, as part of Emergency Preparedness Week, an emergency alert test will be issued to cellphones, television and radio at 10:55 a.m. (PT) on Wednesday, May 8th.
The test alert will go to all compatible cellphones, and will interrupt radio and television broadcasts. This test will assess the system’s readiness for an actual emergency and identify any required adjustments.
Learn more and access more provincial resources HERE.
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Announcement | Launch of Emergency Management Central Booking Portal
The BC Hotel Association in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, and the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness have announced the development of the Emergency Management Central Booking Portal. This booking portal addresses the urgent need for swift and efficient evacuation procedures in response to climate crises. The innovative system aims to expedite evacuees to safe shelter with increased speed and coordination, ensuring seamless collaboration in real-time.
The pilot reservation system is set to enhance coordination and booking efficiencies for Emergency Support Services (ESS) evacuee supports in the province for this year. With a primary focus on supporting three key host communities - Kamloops, Kelowna, and Prince George - the system will onboard other community ESS teams as capacity warrants and go live next month.
With a streamlined booking process, the reservation system will ensure efficient coordination in times of crisis. Live availability information will eliminate the need for manual calls to hotels, providing prompt updates on accommodations availability. The portal also enables simultaneous tracking of evacuee placements and inventory allocation in commercial lodging, facilitating efficient accounting and reconciliation.
A referral voucher system is also set to be introduced to provide essential information and directions to evacuees, enhancing their overall experience.
Stay tuned for more information on the Emergency Management Central Booking Portal.
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TIABC Notes Support for STR Legislation
TIABC Board Chair J.J. Belanger was a guest of the Now You Know show with Rob Snow on May 1st, speaking to the new STR rules that are now in place, and noting the tourism industry supports the legislation noting it will provide the right balance of affordable housing for residents, and accommodation for visitors.
Listen to the interview HERE at the 1:16 mark.
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Province and Partners Work Together to Fight Against Invasive Mussels
The Ministry of Water, Land & Resource Stewardship, BC Hydro and conservation organizations announced earlier this week they are increasing efforts to protect local waterways and keep invasive mussels out of BC.
The Province’s Invasive Mussel Defence Program (IMDP) will work to protect BC lakes and rivers through early-detection lake monitoring, watercraft inspection stations and public outreach.
IMDP’s operations include watercraft inspections, compliance and enforcement, lake monitoring, public outreach, signs and education. The program has strong and active collaborations with neighbouring jurisdictions across Western Canada and the United States.
Inspection stations are open from April until October to prevent zebra and quagga mussels from hitching a ride on boats or other watercraft and entering BC waterways.
- Learn more about BC's Invasive Mussel Defence Program and what you can do as a watercraft user HERE.
- Read the full statement from government HERE.
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DBC Provides $4.83M to Support Co-op
Tourism Marketing Partnerships
Destination BC (DBC) has announced $4.38M in funding to help partners drive consumer demand, educate visitors on responsible travel practices, and increase tourism revenues in communities through destination and activity sector marketing initiatives across the province.
The Co-operative Marketing Partnerships Program invests resources into marketing that supports responsible, short-haul visitation in more seasons, and more areas of the province. This year, the program expanded its initiative eligibility criteria to include visitor education marketing, emphasizing Destination BC’s – and the BC tourism industry’s – commitment to responsible tourism. Examples of this year’s initiatives include:
- Don’t Love it to Death
- Land of Hidden Waters
- NEW: Explore North Okanagan
- Nanaimo and Region
- Zoomer and Beyond
- BC Ale Trail
- Fishing BC
- Ski North BC
Read the full announcement from DBC HERE. View the list of initiatives, community partners and program details in THIS BACKGROUNDER.
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Destination Canada | 2024-2025 Tourism Corridor Strategy Program Now Open
Destination Canada's 2024-2025 Tourism Corridor Strategy Program is now open for applications.
Building on the success of the 2023 pilot program, DC has expanded the 2024-2025 program and is looking to support additional projects from across Canada. Destination Canada's Tourism Corridor Strategy Program aims to accelerate the intentional development of tourism corridors or clusters of tourism assets across Canada.
To learn more and access the available resources, visit HERE.
Destination Canada will also be delivering an informative webinar where they will reveal the latest updates to the program, walk you through the corridor submission process, and clarify what they expect from their partners. After the presentation, there will be a Q&A session to cover any questions you might have.
Date: May 6 @ 11:00 - Noon (PT)
To be part of this discussion, please sign up using THIS LINK.
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Would you like your image to appear in our weekly Postcards from BC feature? Contact deborah@tiabc.ca | |
Harbour Air Resumes Whistler and Downtown Vancouver Route
Harbour Air's most spectacular scenic flight returned May 1st with direct flights between downtown Vancouver and Whistler. Plus, they're giving you more ways to get there this year with direct Whistler flights between Victoria and Richmond (YVR South). The Whistler/Victoria route resumed May 2nd and Whistler/Richmond route resumes today.
Explore more and experience a bucket-list worthy adventure. Hop aboard one of their amazing scenic tours in Whistler, exploring rugged mountain ranges, stunning vistas, ancient glaciers, and the breathtaking glacial waters of mile-high Garibaldi Lake.
To book, and learn more about these routes and other travel info with Harbour Air, visit HERE.
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ICYMI | Tourism Chilliwack "Find Your Call to Action" Workshop Summary Report
As part of their efforts towards reconciliation, Tourism Chilliwack hosted a workshop at the Xa:Ytem Interpretive Centre called “Find Your Call to Action” on December 12th, 2023. This workshop brought 72 Destination Management Organizations (DMO's) and industry leaders from various organizations together to learn and identify ways to improve practices by embracing and embedding reconciliation into our operations, values, and vision.
All participants were asked three questions to identify ways they can move reconciliation forward based upon their unique roles and responsibilities:
- What can the tourism sector do?
- What can you do as a person working in Tourism?
- What can you do as an individual person outside of your professional role?
The feedback received is provided in a summary report, found in the link below.
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GreenStep Welcomes Adrian Kanjer to Their Team
GreenStep announced earlier this week the addition of Adrian Kanjer to their team as EcoFund Program Manager.
Adrian's expertise in conducting energy assessments and developing Net Zero Carbon strategies has been instrumental in various projects, including his notable work with BC Hydro & CleanBC to promote energy efficient climate friendly buildings across British Columbia.
Adrian’s holistic approach to sustainable building retrofits, combined with his passion for environmental stewardship, positions him as a valuable addition to the team.
TIABC joins our member GreenStep in welcoming Adrian to GreenStep in this exciting new role.
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Job Opportunity | Emergency Management Specialist
Kootenay Rockies Tourism is seeking an Emergency Management Specialist to join their team for a term position ending on March 31, 2025.
This is an opportunity to embark on an exciting journey with the not-for-profit destination management organization. Reporting to the CEO, this individual will be responsible for facilitating and updating the emergency management plan for the Kootenay Rockies region. They will engage with levels of government, rights holders, stakeholders, community leaders and partners to ensure that emergency management plans are aligned and supportive.
To apply to this position, please submit your up-to-date resume and cover letter outlining why you are passionate about this position to Kathy@KootenayRockies.com. No phone calls will be accepted. Application Deadline: May 17, 2024
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CMH Seeking VP, Sustainability
Following the news that valued and respected industry colleague Dave Butler will be retiring soon, CMH has begun the search for a new VP, Sustainability to join its Executive Leadership Team (ELT) with the primary strategic responsibility of identifying, developing plans for, and acting as a voice for and change agent around key existential societal and environmental threats to, and opportunities for CMH. Much of the position’s focus centres on land use and natural resource management, environment, and Indigenous and non-Indigenous government and community relations.
With 50+ years of experience, CMH Heli-Skiing & Summer Adventures has evolved into the world’s largest Heli-Skiing and Heli-Hiking company, operating 11 lodges in the winter and 3 in the summer throughout British Columbia.
Learn more about this exciting opportunity and other available positions at CMH HERE.
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REMINDER | Now Available
Value of Tourism Presentation Toolkit
The Value of Tourism (VoT) Presentation Toolkit has been created as a template for all tourism industry professionals to use when presenting and communicating the value of tourism in British Columbia to various audiences such as government officials, community groups, and other interested parties.
The content covers areas such as the tourism industry’s structure, key performance indicators, contribution to quality of life, workforce, culture, DEIA, reconciliation, sustainability, and other components to help inform and educate your stakeholders on why our sector is so vital to British Columbia.
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Promote Your Business at the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Inspiration Centre
Thompson Okanagan tourism companies are invited to share adventures and experiences at the Tourism Inspiration Centre on Highway 97C above Peachland, which receives 35,000+ visitors in a regular season.
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) operates the Tourism Inspiration Centre, with a team of Tourism Visitor Information Counsellors available to assist visitors en route to or from their Thompson Okanagan destination.
Learn more HERE.
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The Take on Prince George
Prince George's Fellow Feathered Friends
DYK - Tourism Prince George has recently released a podcast series?
Listen in as self-proclaimed bird nerds Clive Keen (local author of Birding: A Flock of Irreverent Essays) and Dave Leman (PG Naturalists Club director) share the best spots to find all types of birds, from Long-billed Curlews to the American Redstart, on the latest episode.
Listen to the podcast HERE.
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Better Table Provides Food Savings Calculator
Why do food costs matter? Better Table has introduced a tool that will determine the breakdown of what a restaurant takes as profit after expenses from a customer's food bill. It is key to managing food costs, not only labour costs. The calculator tool can also provide valuable insight on how much you could save by implementing cost-saving measures in your F&B operation.
This handy calculator will help you quickly assess your savings potential!
Try the food savings calculator HERE.
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Sicamous Houseboats
Sicamous Houseboats is your gateway to the Shuswap. Houseboating is an experience that is the perfect memory making lake experience for families and friends - think luxury camping/glamping with a heavy dose of lake and beach fun. Every boat is pet friendly!
Sicamous Houseboats is ready to offer a fresh experience on Shuswap Lake. Enjoy lazy days on the water, beach bonfires, or an array of activities like hiking, swimming, fishing, and more. Ideal for families, weddings, and corporate retreats.
Learn more about Sicamous Houseboats and make your reservation HERE.
Would you like to be featured in our weekly Voice of Tourism, social channels or on our website? TIABC member testimonials provide visibility and exposure to the tourism industry and a wider audience for your business. If you want to be featured in an upcoming TIABC Voice of Tourism and other platforms, contact Deborah - deborah@tiabc.ca
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Become a Member in 2024
Your Membership is Important to Us!
We strongly encourage you to consider membership or renew your membership with TIABC in 2024 to support our important advocacy efforts on behalf of the entire visitor economy.
TIABC continues to identify your concerns, raise your voice, champion your needs, and push for support and programs while encouraging policy changes at both the provincial and federal level.
Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information, visit our website HERE or the link below.
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TIAC's Associate Program for TIABC Members
The Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) continue to offer TIABC members an opportunity to extend their membership. TIABC members in good standing can enrol in TIAC’s Associate Program FOR ONLY $25.
By visiting this link, you can become a TIAC Associate Member, enjoy access to a range of TIAC benefits and add your voice to National efforts.
Note: If you are already a TIAC associate member, you will receive a renewal notice before your anniversary date. If you are currently a full TIAC member, you already get enhanced advantages. You will continue to enjoy added benefits and savings over and above what is available to associate members, including the TIAC Member Advantage program at Rendez-vous Canada.
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WEBINAR | Tourism Corridor
Strategy Program
In 2023, Destination Canada worked with three tourism corridors to develop strategic plans. This includes the Sustainable Journeys from Prairies to Pacific.
Building on the success of the 2023 pilot program, Destination Canada is developing a 2024-2025 intake of the Tourism Corridor Strategy Program.
Join Destination Canada for an informative webinar where they will reveal the latest updates to the 2024-2025 program, walk you through the corridor submission process, and clarify what they expect from our partners. After the presentation, there will be a Q&A session to cover any questions you might have.
Date: May 6
Time: 11am-Noon (PT) (US & Canada)
Learn more about the Tourism Corridor Strategy Program HERE.
To be part of this exciting discussion, please sign up using THIS LINK.
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DBC Micro-Grant Program
Info Session
Join Destination BC (DBC) for a virtual information session for the BC Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative (BCTCRI). Interested applicants are invited to learn more about the application process, eligibility criteria and more.
Date: May 7
The BCTCRI micro-grant program provides eligible BC tourism businesses and non-profits with up to $15,000 in funding to enable implementation of existing sustainability and climate adaption plans or obtain sustainability certification.
Applications open May 13th and will be processed on a first come, first served basis. Learn more and register HERE.
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GreenStep Sustainable Tourism WEBINAR
TIABC has partnered wit GreenStep to help British Columbia businesses remain competitive in a changing tourism landscape.
Please join us as GreenStep hosts an educational webinar aimed to educate tourism businesses about the Pledge and benefits of developing a sustainability strategy.
Date: May 8
Time: 11:00 am - 11:45 am (PT)
Learn more and register in the link below.
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WORTH Leadership Summit
This spring, women-identifying leaders and their allies in recreation, tourism, and hospitality will come together for a full-day industry event. Top voices in the sector will share inspiring ideas to spark dialogue about issues that impact women in the workplace. Their perspectives will inform, ignite, and empower to collectively identify ways to retain and develop women in the industry. This event will connect a community of leaders to expand their network and create meaningful relationships.
Date: May 13
Location: Fairmont Waterfront Vancouver Hotel
Please Use Discount Code: WLS2024TIABC
Learn more about the full program and purchase tickets HERE. For sponsorship details, please get in touch with summit@worthassociation.com or view HERE.
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YVR Annual Public Meeting
YVR will be holding it's Annual Public Meeting to present their Annual & Sustainability Reports and financial statements and discuss the management, operation, and maintenance of YVR.
Date: Tuesday, May 14
Time: 2:00-3:30 pm
Location: East Concourse, US Departures Level 3 (near the Fairmont Airport Hotel), Vancouver International Airport
Please join in for the meeting in person or virtually as they share an overview of 2023 and talk about the important role that YVR plays in keeping BC connected to the world.
The presentation will be followed by a question period for the public. Questions may also be submitted in advance to community_Relations@yvr.ca or via X using #YVRAPM.To be answered during the meeting, questions must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 7. Note: A link to join virtually will be made available on May 14th.
Learn more HERE.
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2024 Online Auction
Benefitting Care Camps Foundation
The BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) is hosting its annual charity fundraising Auction. The charity Care Camps Foundation, founded by campground owners, helps kids with cancer get to experience the healing power of the outdoors by sending them to specialized oncology camps.
Donations and bids can be made through to May 20th. To donate, please email Darlene@bclca.com or call 604.908.5594. It is an excellent opportunity to support the Care Camps Foundation while potentially getting a fantastic holiday, a new product or gift cards and more.
Learn more HERE. The Auction Board is NOW LIVE! Visit the link below.
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Big Spring Raffle|Early Bird
Deadline Approaching
The Big Spring online raffle is on! This fundraiser is to support the work of the Sport Fishing Institute of BC and its efforts to maintain and enhance sustainable access to BC’s public fisheries. Two early bird prizes will be drawn on May 25th.
The excellent main prizes, including a KingFisher boat, Yamaha motor and Scotty downriggers package and trips with Langara Fishing Adventures in Haida Gwaii, Codfather Charters in Port Hardy, and Pacific Angler in Vancouver are all possible with the purchase of a ticket online.
For tickets and more details visit HERE.
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Pig Out Festival
Buy tickets now for Pig Out Festival Weekend in the heart of Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country.
Date: Saturday, May 4
A colourful "Fiesta" celebration of the diverse food and culture of the South Okanagan, this popular one-day event returns to its original spring dates, in an exciting new location.
Gather with friends and savour the start of the sunshine season with one of the biggest and best outdoor culinary festivals in the Okanagan Valley.
Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.
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2024 BC Economic Summit
Transforming Industries, Empowering Communities
With the theme "Transforming Industries, Empowering Communities," the 2024 BC Economic Summit will be delivering this highly anticipated annual event, dedicated to fostering collaboration and growth among Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities alike, and to focusing on local industries and empowering communities to achieve success.
Date: May 6-9
Location: Penticton
The BC Economic Summit serves as a dynamic platform that brings together a diverse range of thought leaders, experts, and innovators from within and outside British Columbia. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the latest economic development trends, strategies, and success stories that are reshaping industries and creating positive change in communities.
Learn more and register HERE.
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Rendez-vous Canada 2024
Rendez-vous Canada (RVC) is Destination Canada’s signature event, co-produced with the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC). For nearly 50 years, this event has shined a spotlight on Canada, connecting international travel buyers with Canadian tourism businesses and creating meaningful opportunities from coast to coast to coast.
Dates: May 14-17
Location: Edmonton Convention Centre
Learn more about Rendez-vous Canada, and register HERE.
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2024 Canadian RVing and Camping Week
The Canadian RVing and Camping Week is designed to encourage Canadians and international visitors to get outside to enjoy a fun, safe and secure camping experience with family and friends.
Dates: May 21-26
The week is organized and sponsored by the Canadian Camping and RV Council and supported by the BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association to:
- Promote the lifestyle associated with camping and RVing.
- Promote good behaviour and respect via the Camper’s Code
- Raise funds for Care Camps to send children with cancer to camp.
Be part of the program and sign up HERE.
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Save the Date
Destination Vancouver AGM
Please join Destination Vancouver and the Board of Directors for the 121st Annual General Meeting
Mayor Ken Sim will be joining in for a Q&A session with members, moderated by Bridgitte Anderson, President & CEO, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade.
Date: Wednesday, May 22| 2:45pm - 6:45pm
Location: Vancouver Convention Centre West, Room 302-305
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Save the Date
2024 Annual Conference | BCAC's
"Soaring Above Challenges"
The BC Aviation Council (BCAC) is excited to announce that the 2024 Conference is now scheduled! Mark your calendar now and check in with our draft event webpage closer to the date for more details including agenda, speaker profiles, sponsorship opportunities, activities (including add-ons), travel and hotel partners, and more.
Date: May 27-29
Location: Nanaimo
Registration is open, learn more HERE.
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2024 BC Chamber of Commerce AGM
Join us and explore this vibrant, diverse and naturally beautiful city located on the traditional, ancestral, unceded territory of the Syilx/Okanagan people.
Date: May 28-30
Location: Coast Capri, 1171 Harvey Ave., Kelowna
Learn more and register HERE. Early bird registration ends April 30th.
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30th Annual TOTA Golf Tournament
Up Fore Some Fun? Register for the TOTA Golf Tournament
Yes, there will be great golf on an award-winning course, but this annual tournament is really about bringing people of the Thompson Okanagan tourism industry together for a day of connection and comradery, and, of course, fun!
Date: May 30
Location: Bighorn Golf & Country Club, Kamloops
Learn more and register HERE.
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Okanagan Wine Festivals Return in June!
The Okanagan Wine Festivals returns this June with three weeks in wine country you don’t want to miss. There is no better time to visit BC Wine Country than in June. Just before the summer season kicks into high gear, you can explore all your favourite wineries and discover hidden treasures. The Okanagan Spring Wine Festival will focus on a TASTE and SIPS series of events throughout the Okanagan Valley.
Dates: June 2-23
The official launch of the Okanagan Spring Wine Festival will take place at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre on Friday, June 7, following the British Columbia Wine Awards private reception, where the 2024 BC TOP 50 and the Wine of the Year will be announced.
Learn more about the Okanagan Wine Festivals, the various events and how to purchase tickets HERE.
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Active Transportation Summit 2024 Registration Now OPEN!
Shape the future of active transportation in BC at the 2024 Active Transportation Summit. This dynamic two-day conference, supported by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, and hosted by BCCC, brings together planners, engineers, government leaders, industry experts, nonprofits, and academics for collaboration and innovation. This year's theme, "Let's Keep Moving", challenges us to do even more.
Dates: June 18-19
Location: Anvil Centre, New Westminster
Get 50% off the regular price if you register before April 5!. Learn more and register HERE.
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Art of Leadership for Women Returns
to Vancouver
The Art of Leadership Women is returning to Vancouver! This year's conference features a riveting collection of renowned world leaders, business icons, esteemed academics, and bestselling authors who share strategies and insights on the most critical issues confronting leaders in our world today. Don't miss this unique opportunity to develop your leaders, engage your talent, and build high-performing teams.
Date: June 24
Time: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Location: Vancouver Convention Centre
Use promo code TIABC40 and save $100 per pass.
Learn more and register HERE.
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2024 CanSPEP National Conference Registration
Join event entrepreneurs at CanSPEP featuring immersive programs, networking and awards in Victoria, BC.
Dates: June 25-28
Early registration is now open until May 3rd. Learn more and register HERE.
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2024 BCHF Golf Tournaments
Registration is now open for the 2024 BC Hospitality Foundation golf tournaments. This year a new venue is being introduced to the Vancouver location which will bring a whole new experience:
Dates:
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July 5 - Tsawwassen Springs Golf Club, Tsawwassen
- August 21 - Olympic Golf Club, Victoria
Learn more and register HERE.
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Save the Date | Hidi Nishi Golf Tournament
The highly anticipated Hidi Nishi Golf Tournament is set to tee off! Golf enthusiasts and industry professionals alike will gather for a day of friendly competition and networking against the stunning backdrop of British Columbia’s scenic landscapes.
Dates: July 17
Location: Tsawwassen Springs Golf Club, Tsawwassen
To Register: please email the CITAP+ office at info@citap.ca to be invoiced for your preferred activities/ sponsorships. Please indicate the number of individuals that will be in attendance.
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SKAL Vancouver | Tourism Industry Golf Tournament
This year Vancouver's tourism executive club: Skal, is hosting a different kind of tourism industry Golf Tournament; a KP (Closest to the Pin) Shootout.
Date: June 21
Location: Mylora, Richmond
Having 15 Par 3's to shoot at for $1000.00 in cash & prizes on a course anyone can play on, with a Shotgun start, is the way to go. More fun, no waiting around for 5 hours on a golf course, and a great barbeque onsite at the end.
We are looking for Golfers, Hole sponsors, a Title sponsor for the event, the reception, and the KP shootout. For more information, visit THIS LINK.
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33rd Annual PNWER Summit
Advancing a Sustainable Regional Economy through Clean Energy & Innovation
Legislators, business leaders, academics, and policymakers from the U.S. and Canada will gather in Whistler for PNWER's 33rd Annual Summit from July 21-25 to discuss regional economic best practices and trade concerns. It will be an opportunity to engage with our region's key decision makers on both sides of the border.
Dates: July 21-22
Location: Fairmont Château Whistler
Learn more and register HERE.
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Save the Date | NBC Tourism Summit!
The Northern BC Tourism Summit is back for 2024! It will be the first time the summit has happened since 2019 and we are thrilled to be back in the room together.
Dates: October 22-24
Program details will be released soon!.
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Save the Date | Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association AGM
The Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association will be holding it's 47th Annual General Meeting & Tourism Industry Conference.
Dates: October 23-24
Location: Prestige Lakeside Resort, Nelson
Mark your calendar! Program details to follow!.
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Tourism Congress 2024
Join the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) in beautiful Vancouver for an immersive conference experience that brings together tourism leaders, stakeholders, and innovators from across Canada and beyond. Get ready to share insights, explore new ideas, and celebrate our industry's resilience and creativity. We are thrilled the Tourism Congress is hitting the road this year.
Dates: December 3-5
Location: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre
Learn more about Tourism Congress including group booking opportunities HERE.
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Thank-you for your readership! We encourage you to send us your ideas or content that would be valuable for TIABC to share through our Bulletin.
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TIABC recognizes that our members, stakeholders and staff occupy the ceded, unceded and traditional territories of Indigenous Nations across British Columbia. We sincerely appreciate the opportunity to live, work and play on the lands that our Indigenous friends and First Nations ancestors honour and care for. | | | | |