March 28, 2024

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Happy Easter! In recognition of Good Friday, TIABC's office will be closed on March 29th, reopening on April 1st. CEO Walt Judas will be away on vacation until April 8th.

CEO MESSAGE

Whenever I visit the Fraser Valley, it evokes childhood memories of when, on the first Sunday of every month, my mom and dad would pile their four kids into the car and drive east to visit our grandparents in Chilliwack. Sometimes we’d arrive just in time to slip into the back pew of the old Evergreen Baptist church to watch my grandfather sing in the choir. Most of the choir members couldn’t carry a tune so it was painful to listen to but entertaining at the same time.

Although visits to grandma’s house generally meant a great meal, there wasn’t much else to do in a sleepy community of mostly retired folks where virtually everything except gas stations, restaurants, drugstores, and churches were closed on Sundays.

Fast forward 50 years and I hardly recognize Chilliwack or many other parts of the Fraser Valley anymore. The pace of development, especially over the past couple of decades, is remarkable. The communities of Abbotsford, Harrison, Hope, Langley, Mission, and Chilliwack have collectively added tens of thousands of residents, housing units, services, schools, businesses, and new infrastructure to become extremely desirable and popular places for residents and visitors. In other words, there is plenty to do and see.

Moreover, community development plans show further growth opportunities in the coming years that will make the Fraser Valley a truly powerful region that can stand on its own without looking to Metro Vancouver for jobs, expertise, amenities, and other necessities.

Earlier this week I joined colleagues from Tourism Abbotsford (Clare Seeley, Barb Roberts) and Vancouver, Coast & Mountains Tourism Region (Chad Wetsch) to meet with Sumas First Nation to learn of their exciting plans to transform a large parcel of land next to Hwy. 1 into a tourism hub that will add tremendous benefits to the Fraser Valley from an economic, cultural, social, and environment perspective. The project is truly a game-changer.

Sumas First Nation is also working to launch an agri-tourism business near Agassiz that would allow visitors a glimpse into land and water-based farming practices. Clare, Barb, Chad, and I toured an indoor fish farm just outside of Chilliwack where Tilapia are being raised and sold to suppliers in Metro Vancouver. Eventually the fish farm will be open to tourists and residents who wish to learn more about Indigenous culture and horticultural practices. Plans also call for similar operations elsewhere in the Fraser Valley in the coming years.

Seeing so many new Indigenous businesses thriving in Abbotsford and proposals for new Indigenous attractions, hotels, restaurants, meeting venues and other tourism related products and experiences is exciting and encouraging for our industry. As I’ve been preaching for a long time, British Columbia needs new tourism products and experiences to continue to attract visitors and further develop our visitor economy.

You may be thinking…why was I part of this tour? The answer is pretty straight forward. In order for Sumas First Nation and other entrepreneurs with ambitious plans and ideas to move forward, they need support from advocacy partners like TIABC to work with all levels of government on policies that create the right climate for investors, accelerate approval processes, and resolve some outstanding issues such as land use. I look forward to seeing this and other projects unveiled in the years ahead.

In my pre-teens, my parents would send me to my grandparents' old house on Reece Avenue near downtown Chilliwack for nearly two weeks every summer. Those were hazy, lazy days where I passed the time by borrowing a bike and venturing out to explore the neighbouring communities of Rosedale, Agassiz and beyond, often riding on farm roads and occasionally sneaking onto someone’s property to pick fruit or vegetables for lunch. Thankfully much of the countryside I enjoyed in my youth still exists for visitors to (re) discover. Along with new amenities and impending developments, the Fraser Valley’s potential from a resident and tourism perspective is anything but sleepy.

Walt Judas

CEO, TIABC

PS: Occasionally my messages are misinterpreted and last week's note on the post-conference survey results was one of those times. While I was trying to acknowledge that we as organizers could have done a better job on menu selection (e.g. more healthy snack choices such as fruit), it came across to some as a criticism of the food and catering. Similarly, referencing how much we spent on meals insinuated the high costs of F&B at events as opposed to simply pointing out our significant investment in food each year to satisfy delegate needs. Regardless of my intent, I apologize to our partners in Victoria and again sincerely thank the Victoria Conference Centre for a wonderful job hosting BCTIC 2024.

Province Provides Clarity for STR's Operating in Strata Hotels & Motels

The Province announced yesterday it is taking action ensure certain existing strata hotels and motels will be able to continue providing overnight accommodation. The upcoming regulations are set to go into effect in many BC communities on May 1st.

When the Short-Term Rental Accommodations Act was introduced in fall 2023, the Province exempted strata hotels and motels. Details are now being provided about the exemption to give greater certainty ahead of spring and summer tourist seasons.

It is expected that an existing strata hotel or motel will be exempt from the principal-residence requirement if one of the following two options applies.

1. Before Dec. 8, 2023, accommodation was being provided in a manner similar to a hotel or motel and on Dec. 8, 2023, the strata hotel or motel had and continues to have all of the following, which are provided in a manner similar to a hotel or motel: 

• a staffed front desk on site;
• one or more employees or contractors that provide housekeeping services for overnight accommodations; and
• a platform providing platform services available exclusively for the use of owners offering short-term rentals at the property.

2. Before Dec. 8, 2023, accommodation was being provided in a manner similar to a hotel or motel, and more than one strata lot on the property is not able to be used as a principal residence by anyone due to a restriction under:  

• zoning;
• a rental management agreement between the manager and an owner of a strata lot; or
• a restrictive covenant or a covenant under section 219 of the Land Title Act.

The exemption for strata hotels and motels is expected to apply to all units on the property, so there is consistent treatment of all of the units for the entire property.

The revised regulations pertaining to strata hotels and motels was the result of a number meetings and extensive consultation between the Housing Ministry and sector associations such as TIABC and BCHA, as well as property managers, local governments, and other stakeholders. TIABC wishes to acknowledge Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon and his team for listening and responding to the concerns of operators and tourism-dependent communities.

Read the official government announcement HERE.

Early Action Taken to Prepare for Wildfires and Drought Conditions

The Province has advised it is taking several early steps to prepare for wildfires and drought conditions, including working proactively with local governments and First Nations to help keep people and communities safe and informed.

Government has enhanced wildfire preparedness and support for evacuees across the province, taking its lead from the ongoing work of the Premier's Expert Task Force on Emergencies. The work includes incorporating advanced wildfire predictive technologies, expanding the number of firefighting tools available to BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) crews and streamlining training for Emergency Support Services (ESS) responders.

Current indictors show that BC may experience an active spring for wildfires due to persistent drought conditions. This activity is expected to increase if there continues to be limited precipitation over the next several weeks and months.

During emergencies, information about evacuation orders and alerts will be shared by local governments and First Nations. Those notifications will be amplified in the link below. Please ensure to refer to this valuable information source where and when needed.

Read the official announcement from the Province HERE.

JUST RELEASED - Episode #21 in TIABC's Voice of Tourism Podcast Series

Meet Ingrid Jarrett, President and CEO of the BC Hotel Association as she discusses her career path, the interconnectedness of BC's tourism industry, and the state of BC's hotel sector with TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism podcast features interviews with some of the most respected professionals in the tourism industry and has been developed to provide TIABC members and stakeholders with insightful content and a unique perspective on industry developments, policy directives, the work that sector associations are doing, and the opportunities that exist for businesses, communities, and government within the visitor economy

You can now listen to the Voice of Tourism podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Check us out on Apple, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music, Deezer, Podcast Addict and Podchaser. Or listen through the link below.

BC Ferries Release Public Interest Survey Results

BC Ferries has released the results of the Charting the Course public survey, and concluded that approximately 10,000 people affirmed that the public’s interest is for BC Ferries to keep its focus on improving reliability, affordability and better travel integration as it plans a vision for the future of the coastal ferry system.

Overall, when asked what was most important to them in the ferry system, 80% of respondents listed the following as their top priority:

• Reliability - 33%
• Affordability - 30%
• Better integration with transit and active transportation - 17%

Based on the feedback results, BC Ferries will focus its policy work on five key areas to help inform the final vision: service levels; integration of ferry services into the wider transportation network; the role of coastal ferries in the movement of goods; approaches to pricing and demand management; and, approaches to reducing GHG emissions.

1. Read the full news news release HERE.
2. The BC Ferries Engagement Report can be found HERE.

Nanaimo Anticipates Tourism Boost With

Return of Cruise Ships

The Port of Nanaimo announced last week that the first cruise ship of the year, the Seabourn Odyssey, will be docking in Nanaimo on May 9th, with a second ship, the MS Regatta, scheduled to arrive on August 26th.

The Seabourn Odyssey will bring up to 450 passengers to Nanaimo, while the MS Regatta carries approximately 830 passengers. It has been four years since the last cruise ship docked at the Nanaimo port.

The Port of Nanaimo has estimated that each passenger spends approximately $84.00 once off the boat. With the two cruise ships combined, it is estimated just over $107,500 will contribute to the central island visitor economy.

Watch the video from CBC HERE, where Nanaimo readies itself for the return of cruise ships.

First CLIA Pacific Northwest Cruise Symposium a Resounding Success

Cruise Lines International Association's (CLIA) recent inaugural Pacific Northwest Cruise Symposium, held earlier this year, was created with the goal of bringing together CLIA members and partners to share knowledge, build on relationships and drive collaboration in the important Pacific Northwest, Alaska and Canada cruise markets.

The symposium drew representatives from cruise lines, ports, government partners, tourism agencies, marine agencies, tour operators, suppliers, local businesses, elected officials, CEOs, sector associations (including TIABC), and participants representing the myriad roles that support the highly successful Alaska cruise season.

Donnie Brown, CLIA Sr. VP, Maritime Policy, shared that the Pacific Northwest, British Columbia and Alaska region is unique in its regulations, noting that the region was a leader in both its industry cooperation and innovation. Brown pointed to achievements such as pioneering shoreside electricity capabilities in Juneau, Seattle and Vancouver; voluntary implementation of treatment and responsible wastewater discharge in Canada; voluntary marine mammal protection programs; and major decarbonization initiatives.

Watch a video of the symposium highlights in the link below.

ITAC Announces Latest Recipients of Indigenous Tourism Fund

Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) has just announced the second funding round is being released to 67 Indigenous tourism businesses from across Canada, including 12 BC businesses who applied for grants of up to $25,000 from a $10 million investment from the Government of Canada through its Indigenous Tourism Fund Micro and Small Business Stream.

The monies are part of the $20 million Indigenous Tourism Fund announced in Budget 2022 to help the Indigenous tourism industry recover from the pandemic and position itself for long-term, sustainable growth. The MSBS is rolled in partnership with Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) and provincial and territorial Indigenous tourism organizations.

Learn more about the program and the recent grant recipients HERE.

MANAGEMENT CHANGES FROM OUR MEMBERS

Destination Vancouver VP Dave Gazley

Announces Retirement

After an incredible 30-year career representing Destination Vancouver, Dave Gazley, VP, Meeting & Convention Sales, has given his 'retirement' notice. His last day will be May 31st.

CEO Royce Chwin noted "Dave has been more than just a fantastic colleague to us. He’s been a leader whose contributions have shaped the landscape of our beloved city. Through his dedication and leadership of our Meeting & Convention team, Vancouver has been put on the global map as a prime destination for some of the most prestigious meetings and conventions in the business events world."

TIABC wishes to extend its best wishes to Dave as he embarks on seeking new adventures while checking off his bucket list. Read the official announcement HERE.

Tourism Kamloops CEO Monica Dickinson

Saying Farewell

After an outstanding 17-year journey with Tourism Kamloops, the organization is extending a big thank you to CEO Monica Dickinson as she moves on to her next adventure. Her contributions to the organization and the city have left a legacy of passion and progress that’s inspired all those that have had the opportunity to work with her.

TIABC joins the Tourism Kamloops team and industry colleagues in extending best wishes to Monica as she strives to reach new accomplishments in BC's tourism sector. A new CEO for the organization had not been announced.

Jamie Angus Promoted to Tourism Prince Rupert

Executive Director Post

Changes have taken place at Tourism Prince Rupert, as former Executive Director Ceilidh Marlow departed this week to commence her new role at BC Ferries.

Tourism Prince Rupert has promoted from within and is celebrating the appointment of Jamie Angus to the top post.  The new ED most recently served as the organization's Marketing and Visitor Experience Manager after joining Tourism Prince Rupert in 2023. 

TIABC extends its heartfelt congratulations to Jamie on this new and exciting role.

Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre Announces New Executive Director

Effective April 2nd, Liza Walli will join the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC) as its new Executive Director.

With a long resume at multiple Whistler businesses, Walli most recently worked as the GM at the Brew Creek Centre and has experience with Whistler Blackcomb, Ziptrek Ecotours, and Nita Lake Lodge.

She steps into the role last occupied by Heather Paul, who has moved on to become CAO for the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District.

TIABC extends its congratulations to Liza as she steps into her new role.

The 2024 BC Tourism Industry Conference could not have been possible without the support of our valued sponsors. We were proud to partner with like-minded organizations that are as passionate about the prosperity of our sector as we are.

In each newsletter over the next several weeks, we will highlight our conference sponsors to acknowledge their role as industry supporters. On behalf of TIABC and the 2024 BC Tourism Industry Conference Planning Committee, thank you for your generous contributions.

BC Hotel Association Summit

Registration is open for the 2024 BCHA Summit Conference.

Date: May 1-2

Location: Fairmont Chateau Whistler

Join the BCHA to network with leaders, owners, operators, vendors, and tech partners. Featuring provincial and federal advocacy, in-person Fast Track Your Future education series, dynamic opening and closing keynote speakers, plus many more speakers, session, and panels! The full program is now complete and can be viewed HERE.

Learn more and register HERE.

TIABC Renews Commitment to BCHF

The BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF) has announced the continued support of TIABC and the BC Hotel Association (BCHA) for the next three years.

As stated by the BCHF, "These partnerships signify the strategic collaboration between key entities within BC's hotel and tourism industries who understand the crucial role that the BCHF plays by being a reliable source of critical financial support to the hospitality and tourism workers when facing a health challenge by contributing to the overall well-being and resilience of their workers."

Learn more about the BC Hospitality Foundation HERE.

Vancouver Attractions Group

The Vancouver Attractions Group, established in 1986, is a marketing cooperative of 25 Must See visitor attractions offering the best savings on line for independent travellers. Partners offer a wide range of cultural, historic and recreational experiences for guests of all ages and demographics.

Learn more about the Vancouver Attractions Group 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

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.

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.

National Tourism Week 2024 

April 15-19

Now in its 14th year, National Tourism Week (NTW) is a weeklong national social media campaign orchestrated by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) in partnership with provincial/territorial industry associations such as TIABC. This annual event is a crucial platform for highlighting the pivotal role of tourism in Canada.

TIAC, TIABC and Destination BC are enthusiastically inviting everyone to partake in celebrating the nation's finest offerings to the world under the inspiring banner: Canada: Powered by Tourism

There are four easy ways to get involved; Go Green, Get Social, Share a Video Message, and Spread the Word.

The NTW website provides useful toolkits, which includes suggestions on how to do the video, how operators and organizations can get involved, and a valuable factsheet to readily use.

It's time to start planning, to celebrate tourism in our province. 

Stay tuned to TIABC for 2024 Tourism Week in British Columbia toolkit and resources.

Crisis Communications Planning Training

Destination BC is offering one last Crisis Communications Planning training session this spring. The goal is to equip tourism destination management or marketing organizations, visitor centres and experience sector organizations with the skills required to effectively communicate during crises, including emergencies and reputational issues.

The application-based training encompasses 10 hours of guidance over two days and is led by seasoned crisis communications experts.

Dates: April 16 & 18 (applicants must be available to attend both training days).

Learn more and register HERE.

Sustainable Tourism Course

Learn from experts from around the world who will go beyond the need for sustainable practices to define the business opportunity and the ways that we can all take steps to develop, attract, and grow sustainable travel for our own businesses and destinations. Program goals include:

• Empower businesses to embrace the sustainability need
• Help businesses to identify the opportunity for sustainable travel
• Build the skills necessary to connect sustainable businesses with travellers
• Create engaged and informed stakeholders
• Develop thriving local tourism economies

This series of live, interactive Zoom lessons will demonstrate the demand for sustainable travel, highlight the opportunities, then empower you to take advantage.

Early bird pricing is now available. Learn more and register HERE.

Wilderness Tourism Association

Online Auction Now Live!

Auction Alert! - some incredible BC wilderness experiences are up for bidding! TIABC member, the Wilderness Tourism Association of BC (WTA), has launched an online auction to support their advocacy efforts.

The WTA is dedicated to the preservation of 'Super, Natural British Columbia'. They speak up for wild salmon, demand protection of precious forests, advocate for changes to antiquated legislation and ask that the government treat tourism on par with other industries. Wilderness tourism protects and restores BC’s wild spaces and wild species (wolves, wild salmon, cariboo, bears) and serves as a sustainable economic enterprise.

Support the efforts of the WTA by bidding on a 'once in a lifetime' offer! The auction will be live until the end of April.

Learn more and start bidding HERE.

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.

7th Annual TRUE Penticton

Tourism Expo!

This not-to-be-missed FREE tourism event will give you a unique opportunity to meet with local tourism businesses and get you Thinking about the Remarkable Unique Experiences that keep visitors coming back to Penticton year after year. Discover new adventures and reacquaint yourself with all of the amazing activities, attractions, accommodations, restaurants, wineries, breweries, cideries, events and so much more happening in and around Penticton.

Date: April 7

Location: Penticton Trade & Convention Centre

Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Learn more HERE.

Mastering the Game: Unveiling the Tactics for Sport Tourism

Join in for an insightful seminar delving into the dynamic world of organizing sporting events, where you will explore the pivotal role they play in fostering community growth. From the illustrious history since the Olympics to the vibrant present, the Province of BC has been a hub for numerous national and international events, leaving a profound legacy for grassroots sports programs and bolstering local economic prosperity.

Speaker Information:

• Riley Wiwchar – Executive Director - 2024 Grey Cup Festival
• Warren Hansen – Former Director of Event Operations - Canadian Curling
• Rohaan Sethna – Director, Destination Events - Destination Vancouver

Date: Thursday, April 11

Times: Registration – 4pm – 4:30pm, Panel Discussion 4:30pm – 6pm

Post Game Networking - The Taste of New West! 6pm- 7:30pm

Venue: Anvil Centre, 777 Columbia Street, New Westminster 

Learn more and register HERE.

EXCELerate2024

GroYourBiz with the Speed of Collaboration invites you to a dynamic gathering of inspiring innovators and global policy influencers converging to forge impactful business relationships. Our mission is to create a space where like-minded leaders and business owners can exchange ideas, form powerful partnerships, and gain practical tools for growth, ensuring they leave equipped to not only thrive, but prosper and scaleup generating positive change in their organizations.

Dates: April 26 & 27

Location: Pan Pacific Hotel, Vancouver

EXCELerate2024 is dedicated to the full spectrum of women entrepreneurs and all professionals from all sectors and sizes. We encourage male businesses and colleagues along with young entrepreneurs to join us.

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE. Use code FREIND20 for 20% off!

2024 BC Mountain Bike Symposium

Mountain Biking BC has announces the next symposium to be held will be at the Naramata Centre in the South Okanagan. The theme chosen for the symposium is “Stewardship; Creating a Culture of Care”. Stewardship can be applied to many aspects of mountain biking from the responsible management of trails to the effective leadership of our organizations and to the way we promote and market the experience to riders. 

Date: May 1-3

The venue is just 15 kilometers north of Penticton on the east side of Okanagan Lake and has many great riding options to offer including the extensive Three Blind Mice trail network and the Kettle Valley Rail Trail that connects Naramata and Penticton along the scenic Naramata Bench.

Registration is now available HERE.

OC Cultivates

Okanagan College is hosting the second in a series of industry events called OC Cultivates, highlighting the Okanagan’s food, wine, beverage, hospitality, and tourism industries. Join in for a panel discussion exploring the unique characteristics and opportunities of our region’s food and beverage businesses. Learn more about how the Okanagan is striving to become a globally renowned gastro-tourism destination.

Date: Thursday, May 2

Time: 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Event doors at 5:30pm and tear-down at 8pm.

Location: CFL Building, Okanagan College, Kelowna

Format: Mingling and paired tastings followed by a talk-show style speaker series

Learn more HERE.

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.

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.

Save the Date | 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

Learn more about the full program and purchase tickets HERE. For sponsorship details, please get in touch with summit@worthassociation.com or view HERE.

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.

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

View the draft event agenda HERE.

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.

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.

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.

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!.

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 will be released soon!.

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.