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Tourism is a big part of what makes Durham Region thrive. From April 20 to 24, National Tourism Week is an opportunity to celebrate the impact tourism has on our local economy and communities. Led by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada, the week shines a light on the people, businesses and experiences that keep visitors coming back. 

Durham Tourism works year-round to support a strong and vibrant tourism sector in the region by promoting local destinations, supporting industry partners and helping attract visitors. Build on that work by sharing your story on social media with #NationalTourismWeek — recognize staff and showcase what makes Durham worth exploring! 

Another way to play a part is by becoming a tourism ambassador! The Tourism Ambassador Program by Central Counties Tourism is a free, self-guided online course that builds local tourism knowledge and practical skills. It’s a simple way to learn how to encourage visitors to stay longer, explore more and share their experiences in Durham Region.

Oshawa is striking a chord on the national music scene with multiple nominations at this year’s Canadian Live Music Awards.

The city is nominated for Music City of the Year, alongside Toronto, Hamilton, Quebec City, Calgary, Kelowna and Ottawa. Oshawa venues are also being recognized, with the Biltmore Theatre nominated for Best Teamwork in a Medium Club and Tribute Communities Centre up for Best Teamwork in a Small Arena. Rounding out the Durham Region nominees are Ajax’s Sum 41 and Pickering’s Shawn Mendes, both nominated for Live Performance of the Year.

Voting is open to Canadian music industry professionals. Cast your ballot for each of the 24 categories. The Canadian Live Music Awards will be handed out on May 6 in Toronto. 

Spring’s arrival is the perfect time to inspire exploration across Durham Region. Durham Tourism’s Open Skies adventure planner is a valuable resource to help visitors discover attractions, experiences and outdoor adventures throughout the season. The guide highlights 129 ways to make the most of Durham, featuring stunning photographs and easy-to-use checklists.

Encourage longer stays and give guests more reason to explore by sharing the digital guide at DurhamTourism.ca/discover or contact Durham Tourism to stock complimentary printed copies.

Share What’s Happening: Durham Tourism Events Calendar 

Make your event easier to find with Durham Tourism’s online events calendar. This free listing tool reaches thousands of residents and visitors each month and is featured across select municipal websites. 

Submitting is straightforward. Set up a profile, add your event information and if approved, your listing will be available to anyone looking for entertainment, attractions and seasonal experience across the region. 

Don’t miss the opportunity to better understand how to support your workforce if your business experiences a temporary decline. Join the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario for a free webinar on the Work-Sharing program and the newly announced Worker Retention Grant on April 20. 

The session will cover: 

• How the Work-Sharing program helps avoid layoffs during temporary business slowdowns.
• Eligibility requirements and how agreements work. 
• How employees can receive income support while working reduced hours. 
• Key details about the new Worker Retention Grant. 

Registration is required.

Tourism businesses and organizations are encouraged to apply to Central Counties Tourism’s Partnership Program, which provides matching funds to support projects that grow the visitor economy across Durham, York and Headwaters. 

The program offers four streams including support for initiatives such as destination development, tourism marketing, and high-impact festivals and events. All must occur between April 1, 2026, and March 31, 2027. 

The main intake deadline is April 30 for the Destination Development and High Impact Festivals and Events streams. Applications for the Tourism Marketing Support stream will be reviewed monthly, until funds are exhausted. 

Join Durham Tourism, Scugog Tourism and Central Counties Tourism (CCT) on May 7 at the Great Blue Heron Casino and Hotel for the launch of the Scugog Tourism Networking and Visitor Growth Plan. 

The event will highlight the priorities for shaping tourism growth in the Township of Scugog. Participants will have the opportunity to receive updates from host organizations and connect over snacks with fellow tourism operators and partners. 

Business and community leaders from across north Durham are invited to connect at the Tri-Township Networking Extravaganza.

Hosted by the North Durham Chamber of Commerce and supported by Mill Run Golf Club and Brock Board of Trade, the free event on June 3 is an opportunity to build relationships, exchange ideas and strengthen connections across the townships of Brock, Scugog and Uxbridge. There’s also raffles and prizes to be won, along with a poutine bar! 

Congratulations to Slabtown Cider for taking home two awards in this year’s Ontario Craft Cider Competition. Slabtown won silver in the Specialty Craft - Fruit/Botanical category and bronze in the Specialty Craft - Hopped/Barrel Aged category.

Whitby Courthouse Theatre is looking for passionate and dedicated people to join its artistic teams for next season. Individuals and teams must apply by April 17 to be considered for the opportunity. Get application details.

Vendor applications are open until May 31 to be a part of Convergence. The music and art festival happens September 19 and 20 in downtown Oshawa with Maestro Fresh Wes headlining Sunday’s show. View the sign up form and find vendor information. 

Current News & Trends

Durham Region continues to make its mark on screen. The Handmaid’s Tale sequel, The Testaments, premiered April 8 with scenes shot in Oshawa. Locally filmed Reacher is heading into season four, with a spinoff in the works.

Want to make an impact on regional tourism? Central Counties Tourism is looking for two industry professionals to join its Board of Directors. Learn more and apply by April 24. 

The owners of Crafted. Art Bar recently appeared on Rogers TV, showcasing their mobile paint-and-sip service that brings together art workshops, specialty beverages and sweet treats to events of all sizes. Watch the interview to find out how this creative business is creating memorable experiences. 

The Municipality of Clarington is inviting feedback on its draft Clarington Waterfront Strategy. The plan for the 34-kilometre shoreline includes a connected waterfront with enhanced public access. Learn more about the project. 

Provincial changes to alcohol rules would allow people to bring their own drinks to cultural or community outdoor events. Here’s what the expanded permits would cover. 

Following council approval, the Township of Scugog is moving forward with the second phase of consultation for the fairgrounds project. Read more about next steps. 

Dan Levy returned to Goodwood for the first time since filming wrapped on Schitt’s Creek. Read more about his emotional visit as part of an interview with CBS News Sunday Morning. 

CBC Radio visited the Purple Woods Maple Syrup Festival in Oshawa to find out what goes into making maple syrup. Listen to the episode. 

Uxbridge native, Cliona Furrey, took home the Oscar in February for Best Makeup and Hairstyling for the movie Frankenstein. Read her reaction to the win.