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Durham Region’s vibrant music scene is a big part of what makes it such an exciting place to visit. We’re keeping that creative energy growing into 2026 with a brand-new Beyond the Music event!

This free event—taking place on February 3 from 4 to 9 p.m. at the Biltmore Theatre in Oshawa—brings together musicians, performers and industry professionals for an evening of connection and professional development.

The evening will focus on major available funding supports in Canada’s music sector, along with advice on how to make the most of them. There are opportunities to connect with others in the community, enjoy light refreshments, and take part in the Songwriters Open Mic, hosted by Crosswalk Entertainment. Performers must pre-register for the open mic session by emailing trg.crosswalk@gmail.com by February 2 at 4 p.m. Separate registration is required for Beyond the Music.

Central Counties Tourism’s annual symposium returns on March 2. This year’s theme, Local to Limitless, explores how local strengths can create boundless opportunities. 

Presented in partnership with Durham Tourism and Whitby Tourism, join us for an inspiring day of presentations, panel discussions, interactive breakout sessions and real-world case studies designed to strengthen the visitor economy. 

Held at the Royal Ashburn Golf Club in Whitby, guests will enjoy coffee and treats during registration, a catered lunch, and afternoon snacks. 

Early bird tickets are now on sale until January 23. 

Give visitors even more reasons to explore Durham Region with Open Skies, Durham Tourism’s adventure planner!

Whether it’s winter trails, spring blooms, summer festivals, or fall events, Open Skies makes it easy to explore Durham Region at any time of the year. With 129 curated ideas, stunning visuals and ready-to-use checklists, Open Skies uncovers local gems, memorable outings, and welcoming accommodations.

Share the digital guide at DurhamTourism.ca/discover and contact Durham Tourism to stock printed copies at your business for free.

Promote Your Event With Durham Tourism 

Did you know that Durham Tourism has an online event calendar? The calendar is displayed across select municipal sites and is viewed by thousands of visitors per month. 

Adding your event to the Durham Tourism calendar is free, simple, and designed to connect you with the right audience. Create a profile, submit your event details, and once approved, your listing will reach both locals and visitors looking for things to do across Durham Region. 

Let Durham Tourism help your concert, festival, seasonal market, or community gathering get noticed!

For 65 years, the family owners of Van Belle Flowers have helped people celebrate life’s moments and brought beauty into their homes and gardens. Now, they are marking their own milestone with a well-earned retirement—handing the keys over as a new family steps in to carry the legacy forward. Congratulations on an incredible 65 years and best wishes to the new owners!

Big things are coming to NEB’s Fun World in 2026. They’re working hard on three exciting new attractions! Watch for a brand-new drop tower that delivers 12-metres of thrills with a 360-degree rotation, the new Mansion Theatre immersive stand-up adventure, and a two-level laser tag arena designed for up to 46 players—perfect for those who love competition! Follow their progress on Instagram and stay tuned for the official opening dates.

Congratulations to three local businesses who were recently featured by Toronto Life for their must-try dishes! Included on the edible bucket list is the meat-and-three platter at Butchie’s in Whitby, and the Tamil-style vegetarian lamprais from Cucini Express in Whitby. Plus, Pickering’s Ma Yve Grill was noted for their fumbwa—a Congo wild spinach stew with peanut butter.

Current News & Trends

Durham Region has been named a Bronze Bicycle Friendly Community by the Share the Road Cycling Coalition—the first regional municipality in Ontario to receive the designation. Read more about the recognition. 

DRIFF in a Jiff returns in 2026 with a free screening on February 5 of the film “When Morning Comes” at the Whitby Central Library. The film follows a young boy leaving Jamaica for a new life in Canada. Book your seat.  

Early bird tickets are available now for the 2026 Ontario Tourism Summit. The event runs October 21 to 22 in Ottawa. Buy tickets.

Planoly is laying out what creators should expect in 2026, with predictions pointing to human‑first storytelling, community over follower count, and building real-world connections. Apply these insights to elevate your business on social media.

Pinterest’s predictions for 2026 are here! The platform spotlights 21 emerging trends including mystical travel escapes and dare-cations, trends that will make you feel like everyday is throwback Thursday, and the surprising rise of cabbage as a star ingredient. Read the full list.

Discover the travel trends set to redefine 2026. From beauty-driven adventures to book-lover retreats and exploring grocery food aisles, it’s all highlighted in Skyscanner’s data-packed Travel Trends Report.

Find more travel insights in Expedia Groups’ Unpack ‘26. Their Destinations of the Year list offers a glimpse into how travellers are seeking more immersive, local experiences.

Purpose-driven travel is also highlighted in this article from TravelPULSE Canada. It looks at how Canadians are going beyond the traditional getaway in favour of experience-driven journeys.

Glomads (tech-savvy travellers who live a mobile, international lifestyle) are shaping the future of travel. According to Forbes, their embrace of AI-powered planning, eco-minded choices and deeper cultural immersion is fueling the movement. Learn more.