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From November 23 to 29, Shop in Durham Week celebrates the small businesses and experiences that make Durham Region a destination worth visiting. From the storefronts that line our downtowns to the attractions, restaurants and services that bring people back time and again.

With rising costs from U.S. tariffs and other economic pressures, local businesses need our support more than ever. Shop in Durham Week is designed to inspire excitement for our small businesses and show how investing in our communities has a lasting impact. 

Take part by promoting your business and sharing your story on social media by using the hashtag #ShopInDurham. Tag @DurhamTourism on Instagram to be featured throughout Shop in Durham Week.

Learn how to market your tourism business with Durham Tourism, the Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD) and Central Counties Tourism. 

All three have partnered to bring you a free workshop designed to elevate your brand, simplify your marketing efforts, and work better with others in the industry. Happening December 2 at the Uxbridge Historical Centre from 9 a.m. to noon, the Boost Your Tourism Brand workshop will cover how to: 

• Use artificial intelligence tools effectively; 
• Create engaging photo and video content with an iPhone; and, 
• Leverage partnerships to grow your reach. 

Whether you’re starting out or looking to refresh your marketing strategy, get practical tools and fresh ideas to move your business forward.

Approximately 50 per cent of Canadians gain their first work experience in the tourism sector. If you’re looking to boost your staff’s skill and confidence, the Skills That Travel program by the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) has you covered.

The program offers resources and training designed to support tourism business owners and professionals in attracting, training and retaining top talent. Courses include training pathways, inclusive hiring strategies, market research, and more—from entry level to advanced.

Whether you're running a seasonal operation or a year-round destination, these tools offer something for every business. Plus, with online training and wage subsidies available, it’s never been easier to invest in your team.

Boost Your Business With Co-op Talent 

Businesses that hire students enrolled in co-operative education programs at Ontario colleges or universities could be eligible for the Co-operative Education tax credit.

This 25 to 30 per cent refundable tax credit encourages businesses to offer real-world work experience to post-secondary students. You could receive up to $3,000 for each qualifying work placement. It’s a great way to support hands-on learning while getting financial relief for your business.

Join fellow entrepreneurs and business leaders from November 17 to 21 for Do It In Durham Entrepreneurship Week! This event series is led by the Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD), made possible by a collective of entrepreneurship organizations, and is designed for those looking to start, grow and strengthen their business and network.

Choose from a lineup of more than 30 workshops, panels and networking events offered online and in person. You’ll get practical tools, real connections, and fresh inspiration. Most events are free.

The week-long event kicks off on November 17 with a celebration and networking event at Town Brewery in Whitby. The Business Summit on November 20 is a full-day conference focused on sustainable investments, tech-driven growth and resilient supply chains. There’s also a public expo showcasing cutting-edge innovations.

Take the next step in your tourism journey with Attractions Ontario. Their series of workshops and tailored services are designed to help tourism professionals grow, lead and succeed. 

Whether you're looking to sharpen your business strategy, boost your marketing game, or strengthen your leadership skills, these expert-led sessions offer practical insights and valuable resources.

Workshops include government relations and influencer marketing, to refining sales strategies and leadership skills. Specialized services include strategic planning, business plan facilitation, and marketing scans. Explore what’s possible and bring fresh energy to your tourism initiatives.

Two new videos show what makes Durham Region worth visiting.

Clarington’s tourism story is brought to life by the Clarington Board of Trade. Described as a story of Clarington’s talent, experiences, dedication and passion, the video highlights the people, places, and businesses that shape Clarington’s tourism scene. Watch Clarington: Beyond Your Backdoor. 

Destination Pickering has launched a fresh look and mission. Their new video offers a look at what’s ahead, spotlighting the events, places and experiences that make Pickering such a great place to explore. Watch Destination Pickering’s video.

Clarington businesses are encouraged to become a part of the Curious Communities discount program. Offered by the Clarington Library, Museum and Archives, the program is a simple way to connect with residents and grow your customer base. By offering a small discount or promotion to library card holders, you’ll be part of a community-wide initiative and have your business promoted for free on the library’s website, social media and in-library materials. Sign up as a Curious Communities partner. 

The Town of Ajax is excited to introduce Made in Ajax, a new culinary guide showcasing the community's diverse and vibrant restaurant scene. Whether you're a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, this guide will help you discover local flavours and one-of-a-kind dining spots throughout Ajax. Free digital copies are available to explore and download on ajax.ca/MadeInAjax and printed copies are available for purchase at all Town facilities.

Each Remembrance Day, military vehicles and tanks from the Canadian Tank Museum drive across Oshawa and circle its cenotaph to honour veterans. Check out this recent feature by CBC as they explore the museum and learn how Oshawa became home to the largest collection of operational military vehicles in North America. The museum is home to a variety of vehicles from World War One relics to modern battle tanks and also offers immersive exhibits and live vehicle shows with special events running year-round. Watch now.

Current News & Trends

Canada’s tourism sector set an all-time record this summer. According to Destination Canada, between May and August 2025, Canada’s tourism sector netted nearly $60 billion—largely due to Canadian travellers option to explore at home. Get the numbers behind the record-breaking summer. 

Pickering Casino Resort is changing the way we think of vacations with destination-level entertainment right here in Durham Region. Check out blogTO's five reasons to make the Pickering Casino Resort your next weekend getaway! 

The Government of Canada has outlined its funding plans from the budget to implement its Buy Canadian Policy. Read more about what the funding will cover.

Each festive season, Port Perry comes alive, transforming its charming historic downtown into a winter wonderland with plenty of great options for holiday shopping. Read about all the festive fun taking place in the Township of Scugog in this recent feature by blogTO. 

Condé Nast readers named Canada one of their favourite countries around the world. Canada came in tenth place in its 2025 Readers Choice Awards. Learn more about Canada’s ranking.