January 12, 2024

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CEO MESSAGE

My wonderful daughters-in-law describe themselves as football widows for the better part of five months of the NFL season (which includes pre-season, regular season, playoffs, Super Bowl) even though they do watch some games. From what they tell me, my Kelowna-based sons are glued to as many as four television screens every Sunday, and one large screen on both Monday and Thursday nights to watch their favourite sport.

Like my boys I enjoy watching football as well, but one thing that drives us all nuts is when the networks show random stats that look impressive but actually mean nothing. My guess is they do it to make the play-by-play team sound knowledgeable, but I often wonder who comes up with such useless drivel.

For example, CBS will post a graphic along the lines of… “quarterback TL has thrown two or more touchdowns in each of his last 10 games when the sun shines and the temperature drops below 50 degrees. Wow! Really? How fascinating…not! Fact is the only statistic that really counts is how many games TL has won after throwing two or more TDs.

Virtually anyone can come up with stats and manipulate them to tell a story or illustrate a scenario. In the tourism sector, we’re guilty of it on occasion, especially in an advocacy or sales context. Sometimes we inadvertently paint an inaccurate picture of a situation based on our own interpretation of data, especially when it comes to surveys, which are a great tool but also have limitations.

Suffice it to say, research and statistics are vital and necessary to make good, informed decisions vis-a-vis direction and action. However, it’s a matter of working with experts on the right research methodology, interpreting and reporting out on the appropriate stats, and evaluating the measures against the organization’s key performance indicators.

In that regard, to ensure we’re doing our due diligence in capturing relevant feedback, TIABC has hired an independent consulting firm to help us evaluate the results of our latest member survey, which in turn will help inform our three-year, rolling strategic plan.

As you recall, we distributed the survey last November (thanks to those that took the time to complete it). This week I had a chance to review the aggregate results with our consultants who offered insights and perspectives I hadn’t considered before.

As part of the review, I took the opportunity to read the many comments and recommendations respondents made on where and how we can improve as BC’s Voice of Tourism. Some of them stung. For example, one individual said they’d like to see TIABC engage in more grassroots issues that are important to them rather than assuming what’s important while not really engaging. Another said that TIABC must be a stronger spokesperson for smaller businesses who don’t have the means to voice concerns about what government is or isn’t doing.

While these comments evoke a range of emotions, they are also fair and ultimately compel us as a team and board to find ways to do better and be better.

Using the survey as a baseline, our next step is to engage with business operators, sector and DMO leaders, as well as bureaucrats to further flesh out what we should be doing more of, less of, start doing, or stop doing, notwithstanding other operational and advocacy priorities for 2024 and beyond. If you’d like to share your thoughts and ideas (in confidence) with our consultants, feel free to reach out directly to Stephen Pearce at stephen@gainingedge.com.

As the NFL playoffs begin this weekend with the championship game next month, I will be rooting for the San Francisco 49ers whose quarterback has the highest rating in the entire league despite being the last pick in the 2022 NFL draft and consequently saddled with the title of Mr. Irrelevant. According to my sons and their football widow spouses, Brock Purdy’s stats matter not one whit unless he follows the playbook and guides his team to a Super Bowl title. I’m keeping my fingers crossed.

Walt Judas,

CEO, TIABC

TIABC | BCDMOA | BCHA Submit Recommendation to Province on Additional Major Events MRDT

TIABC, the BC Destination Marketing Organization Association (BCDMOA), and the BC Hotel Association (BCHA) recently responded to the province's consultation process on the additional Major Events Municipal & Regional District Tax (MEMRDT).

The three organizations stressed supporting an increased focus on the attraction and hosting of major events as part of the growth of the BC tourism industry, and to further advance the capabilities and social, cultural, economic, and sustainability benefits these events bring to residents, communities, businesses, visitors, and Indigenous Nations across BC.

However, TIABC, the BCDMOA and BCHA strongly believe that consideration of MEMRDT should only be advanced if or once a list of eight identified tasks are completed.

In summary, the organizations would welcome a further review of MEMRDT as a possible funding option for major events (beyond FIFA World Cup) provided the province commits to completing a comprehensive major events strategy, which would identify goals, objectives, criteria, and obligations, and importantly, provide a front door for event proponents, organizing committees, and events rights holders to consider BC as a host destination.

To learn more about the additional recommendations to government, read the full consultation submission in the following link.

CEBA Loan Repayment Due January 18th!

January 18th marks an important milestone regarding CEBA loan repayments. Despite TIABC and TIAC's ongoing efforts at both the national and provincial level, the Federal Government has indicated they will not be extending the deadline date.

Due to this decision, businesses have been encouraged to contact their financial institution to discuss repayment and/or refinancing options.

REMINDER: There are three options that you can currently pursue:

Option 1: Repay in full by January 18th. This will allow you to retain the $10,000 to $20,000 in loan forgiveness.

Option 2: If you can’t repay by January 18th, you must refinance through a financial institution to repay your CEBA loan, which will allow you to retain the loan forgiveness portion. Applications for refinancing must be submitted before January 18th, and new loan terms approved by March 28th.

Option 3: If you cannot repay by January 18th and are not able to refinance, interest will start accruing at 5% annually on the entire loan and you will not be eligible to retain the loan forgiveness portion. The full loan will be due by December 31, 2026. 

Learn more about the CEBA Program and repayment criteria HERE.

Canadian Tourism Labour Market Snapshot | December 2023

Tourism HR Canada has released its latest Canadian tourism labour market snapshot. Overall, the tourism sector in December saw little movement from the previous month with aggregate changes across labour force, employment, and unemployment staying under 0.5%.

The sector was in a stronger position than in December 2022, with both employment and labour force up by around 4.5% from the previous year, but both remained below 2019 levels. Highlights include:

• Recreation and entertainment showing the most growth from November across labour force (+1.9%) and employment (+4.1%),
• Recreation and entertainment saw the largest drop in unemployment (-2.0%),
• Accommodation lost around 1.3% of its labour force,
• Food and beverage services lost around 1.1% of employment.
• Compared with 2022, only food and beverage services and travel services had lost ground, Accommodations, recreation and entertainment, and transportation all saw growth in their workforces.

Read the full Labour Market Report HERE.

go2HR Introduces Advisory Services Dedicated to Workplace Safety

go2HR introduced its brand-new advisory service dedicated to helping employers create, maintain, and develop safe workplaces. Their Health & Safety Specialists offer advice and guidance on a range of topics including:

• NEW First Aid program requirements
• Requirements for joint health and safety committees
• NEW duty to maintain employment requirements following workplace injuries
• Workplace mental health and wellness strategies
• Bullying and harassment, working alone and much more!      

go2HR also offers a wide variety of Health & Safety training courses, including their new Joint Health & Safety Committee online course. This new course meets the 8-hour training requirement for new committee members.

To learn more about the new Health & Safety advisory services and the support the go2HR team can offer you, visit their new advisory service page HERE.

Have Your Say On The Future of

the Royal BC Museum

The Royal BC Museum is seeking your input to create a reimagined museum that reflects all people in the province. They want to learn how the museum can best embrace diversity, connect people, foster a sense of community, and provide positive experiences for all.

To do so, they are inviting everyone to join in a series of conversations that will be held virtually and in-person in communities throughout the province. Through a collaborative process, they will dive deeper into the themes that were emphasized in earlier dialogues. They also asking everyone to take part in an online survey that will help determine the future of your museum and archives.

Learn more HERE.

Input Needed | How Can the Federal Government Support the Tourism Sector?

As we head towards the federal budget this spring, the federal government has an opportunity to support the sector in a meaningful way. It will require focusing increasingly scarce resources where they can have the most benefit, while avoiding new measures that pose obstacles to the sector’s recovery.

As industry experts, your feedback on these priorities is vital. If you have ideas on how the federal government can support the tourism sector, please take a moment to fill this survey prepared by Blake Richards, MP Banff-Airdrie and member of the Parliamentary Tourism Caucus. There you can share your thoughts and suggestions on the issues facing tourism, including Labour, Access to Capital, Taxes & Fees, Entry, Accessibility & Safety and Infrastructure.

SURVEY | Shaping the Future of AI in British Columbia's Tourism Sector

Calling All Tourism Stakeholders! TIABC is excited to announce an exclusive opportunity for you to shape the future of artificial intelligence (AI) in our industry. In partnership with the newly established Tourism AI Network, TIABC invites you to participate in a pivotal 4-minute survey designed to gather insights and perspectives from within our community.

Survey Purpose:

Our survey aims to capture the current state of AI adoption and attitudes within British Columbia's tourism sector. Your input is crucial in helping us understand how AI can redefine travel and enhance tourism operations across our province.

Why Your Participation Matters:

Be a part of a pioneering initiative: Your responses will contribute to a groundbreaking study focusing on AI's impact in tourism. Influence industry direction: Share your insights and help guide the strategic integration of AI in our industry.

Gain Early Insights:

Survey participants will receive an exclusive preview of the findings, offering a competitive edge in understanding AI trends.

The Survey and Beyond:

The results of this survey will be a cornerstone of the BC Tourism Industry Conference presentation entitled, “Redefining Travel; AI’s Impact on Tourism Operations,” led by Tourism AI Network Founder, Peter Pilarski. This presentation will not only reveal the survey results but also provide vital context and discussion points for attendees about the integration and impact of AI in our sector.

ITAC Offering Financial Support to

Indigenous Tourism Operators

Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) through the Indigenous Tourism Fund Micro and Small Business Stream, recognizing market readiness standards set by The Original Original Accreditation Program, taking into account factors such as resource availability, cash flow, and market dynamics.

Its primary objective is to provide support to Indigenous tourism operators, offering funding of up to $25,000 per business to enhance their operations across six crucial categories:

• Effective Community Engagement and Support
• Excellence in Visitor Experience
• Ensuring Health, Safety, and Comfort
• Practicing Sustainable Indigenous Tourism
• Excellence in Marketing and Visitor Services
• Demonstrating Business Acumen/Practices

If you have questions about the accreditation program or need help getting your application completed, please email ITAC Business Support Coordinator, Michelle@IndigenousTourism.ca. You can also apply HERE.

Tourism Growth Program

Accepting Applications

Are you a tourism business or non-profit looking to grow? Apply for the Pacific Economic Development Canada Tourism Growth Program, an initiative designed to help established small and medium-sized businesses, tourism organizations and communities develop tourism products and experiences that create lasting prosperity.

Projects must target one of the following priorities:

• Support active tourism
• Increase tourism benefits for communities
• Support the Indigenous tourism industry
• Support economic, environmental and culturally sustainable tourism
• Extend the tourism season
• Complement the support provided through provincial programs

The Tourism Growth Program will be accepting applications until February 20th at noon (PST).

Learn more and apply HERE.

go2HR Offers New Course on EDI for

Tourism & Hospitality

Join go2HR for An Introduction to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). As our industry works to become more equitable, diverse and inclusive, this course will give you the foundational knowledge needed to thoughtfully engage and move forward on your journey. Whether you are an individual, leader, an HR or EDI specialist, a school, or an organization, this beginner course gives you the common language to go deeper. This course is recommended as a complement to other EDI initiatives or work you may be undertaking.

In this course you will look at core concepts and terms such as: equity, diversity, inclusion, positionality, intersectionality, types of bias, microaggressions, microinsults, microassaults, and microaggressions.

Learn more and register HERE.

Spring Camping Reservations Now Available at BC Parks

Visitors can book a campsite four months ahead of their desired arrival date - May long weekend reservations open on Wednesday, Jan. 17th.

This year, BC Parks has added Martha Creek Provincial Park campground to the reservation system. The addition created 32 new campsites, bringing the total to 108, with 83 now available for reservation.

Last year, the new Notify Me feature was introduced to the camping reservation service to let people know when a previously booked campsite becomes available at a specific campground. People can create up to five different availability notifications for any dates for reservable campgrounds. If a campsite becomes available for the desired date and location, people will receive a notification email that the site can be reserved.

For more information about the BC Parks reservation service, visit HERE.

DBC Welcomes New Tourism

Marketing Committee Members

Destination BC (DBC) has announced two new members of the provincial Tourism Marketing Committee (TMC) - Ange Chew and Steward Cawood.

Ange is a seasoned marketing professional with over two decades of experience in the fields of marketing and media relations. Currently holding the position of Executive Director at Discover Surrey, the official destination management organization for Surrey, Ange is the driving force behind the city’s vibrant tourism landscape.

Stewart is the Manager of Public Programming & Media for Barkerville and is responsible for presenting the history of Barkerville and attracting visitors from near and far to the world-renowned heritage town. Born and raised in the Cariboo region, he has worked in Barkerville for 18 years.

A key role of the Tourism Marketing Committee is to provide the CEO and Board of Directors with input on Destination BC’s tourism marketing strategies, tourism performance indicators, and with recommendations on how to encourage collaboration and joint funding of marketing programs.

Learn more about the TMC and committee members HERE.

ABLE BC Welcomes New Staff Members

ABLE BC commenced the new year by welcoming two new staff members to their team. Joining ABLE BC is David Lough, Manager of Membership Services, and Bo Chen, Head of Cannabis Memberships!

David Lough is a skilled sales and stakeholder-relations professional with nearly three decades of experience. His background in pub management gives him an acute understanding of the challenges facing pub, bar, and liquor store owners and operators.

Bo’s career in the cannabis industry began in the Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations (ACMPR) days. He worked primarily with licensed producers, with a focus on licensing and regulatory compliance. 

Please join TIABC in welcoming David and Bo to the ABLE BC team. Learn more about ABLE BC HERE.

BCHF Scholarship Applications Now Open

The BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF) has a strong scholarship program. Since 2009 it has awarded 363 scholarships to future leaders in the hospitality industry amounting to over $463,500.

2024 Guidelines:



• Candidates can apply to all open scholarships by filling out the appropriate scholarship form.
• Applicants will only be awarded one scholarship per year and will not be awarded the same scholarship two years in a row.
• Scholarships will be granted, and the disbursement of funds will be held in trust until the successful applicant provides a “completion” document for the corresponding enrollment period, as indicated on the application form.

Learn more about the BCHF Scholarship Application Program and process and HERE.

EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION CLOSES JANUARY 17TH!

Shaping Our Future Together' is the theme of the BC Tourism Industry Conference in 2024. With both a 'knowledge and skills' track for workshops, delegates will not only be informed but able to apply their learnings within their own professional setting. Our goal is that in partnership, all elements of British Columbia's tourism industry will align to help the sector meet the challenges ahead but also create an environment to build back better than ever.

Opening Keynote Announcement

Shaun Boothe (left) is a Canadian award-winning hip-hop artist and world-renowned speaker who has gained recognition for his "Unauthorized Biography Series", a critically acclaimed musical project that is a unique celebration of some of the world's most influential cultural icons. Featuring iconic figures such as Terry Fox, Chris Hadfield, Bob Marley, Malala Yousafzai, Serena Williams, Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., among others. Shaun is a successful motivational speaker and performing artist, moving others to achieve their own greatness.

DEADLINE EXTENDED! 2024 Industry Award Nominations Open Until January 17th

Given that many businesses were not yet fully open or staffed after the holidays until this past Monday, we've been asked multiple times to extend the application process for the BC Tourism Industry Awards...so we did.

The 2024 Awards are presented by TIABC, ITBC and sponsoring partners to recognize and celebrate the excellence, leadership, and innovation in British Columbia’s tourism industry.

Awards will be presented in the following 10 categories:

• Business Woman of the Year
• Community Contribution & Impact
• DMO Professional Excellence
• Employees First
• Inclusive and Accessible Tourism Experience
• Indigenous Operator or Experience
• Innovation
• Remarkable Experience
• Sector Association Excellence
• Sustainability Excellence

Call for Silent Auction Donations

We would sincerely appreciate a donation for the silent auction at the 2024 BC Tourism Industry Conference! If you would like to donate an item or guest package, please submit to the online donation form or contact info@bctourismconference.ca

Prince of Whales Announces Biosphere Certification Across All Locations

Prince of Whales Whale Watching has announced its Biosphere Certification across its Vancouver, Victoria, and Telegraph Cove locations. This international sustainability certification reflects the company's dedication to environmental stewardship and aligns with its commitment to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations' 2030 Agenda.

The adoption of Biosphere's sustainability model by Prince of Whales is a significant achievement. As a member of 1% for the Planet, Prince of Whales pledges a minimum of 1% of its annual revenue to environmental causes. Additionally, the company partners with organizations to amplify conservation efforts and supports local initiatives through its Climate Positive designation. These actions, paired with their newest Biosphere Certification, showcase Prince of Whales’ commitment to eco-tourism.

Learn more about Prince of Whales HERE.

Recruitment Project Opportunity

Capilano University

Are you looking for support with your recruitment strategy? Capilano University School of Tourism Students are eager to help. Our 400 level Human Resources class will be working with tourism businesses to create a comprehensive recruitment strategy throughout the semester. After an initial consultation with you in February, students will analyze your needs and assess opportunities to help you attract a larger pool of candidates.

In their report and presentation, students will design recruitment policies, audit current practices, and create recommendations on employer branding. They will recommend recruitment sources and present a digital strategy, helping you take a broader talent management approach. Students will present their findings in April and prepare a comprehensive report. The time commitment for employers is two hours. There is no cost to participate. 

Email Joanna Jagger at joannajagger@capilanou.ca for more information.

The Wilson's Group

Wilson's Transportation

In operation since 1962, The Wilson's Group/Wilson’s Transportation Ltd. is a locally-owned and operated charter bus transportation company serving Victoria and Vancouver Island.

As Vancouver Island’s largest charter transportation company with over 140 vehicles available, they offer charters and rentals for all types of groups and events – from small elite tours to large conferences. In addition to their core business of bus charters and rentals, they also operate Gray Line Sightseeing Victoria, as well as the YYJ Airport Shuttle and BC Ferries Connector services. They also operate an eight bay mechanical and body shop facility where contracts include retrofitting BC Transit buses.

Learn more about The Wilson's Group / Wilson's Transportation HERE.

Would you like to be featured in our weekly Voice of Tourism, social channels and 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.

Personal Branding Workshop

Mark your calendars for a personal branding workshop; New year, New Possibilities! You'll learn how to optimize your personal LinkedIn brand, be discovered online, and get more connected in 2024 from Jackie Ross, one of Canadian's leading hospitality recruiters. 

Date: Thursday, January 25

Time: 6-7pm

Where: Online Webinar (Zoom)

Learn more and apply HERE.

DBC Introduces

Crisis Communication Training Series

This FREE 2-day, Crisis Communication Planning Training Series will coach participants with a step-by-step approach to developing a crisis communication plan. The practical training will share best practices for crisis communication mgmt - how to prepare, respond and learn from each crisis we face - to ensure you are ready to respond for the unexpected.

In recent years, emergency, disaster and crisis communication planning have become more essential than ever for CDMOs, Visitor Centres and Provincial Experience Sector Orgs, who act as representatives, partners and advisors of small businesses in their respective communities.

The 10-hour Crisis Communication Planning Training Series is delivered across two days, with the next series scheduled for:

• February 6 & 8
• April 16 & 18

Learn more and apply HERE.

National Tourism Job Fair

Tourism HR Canada, Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) and Baxter Media have partnered to connect tourism operators and job seekers from across the country with a new, virtual event: the National Tourism Job Fair. This free event will offer networking and learning opportunities

Date: February 1 (virtual)

Led by TIAC, the virtual platform will launch in January 2024, allowing job seekers to explore career options and network with industry leaders. Attendees can look forward to expert-led sessions on industry trends, skill development, and strategies for navigating the evolving landscape of travel and hospitality.

Learn more HERE.

Build | Grow | Thrive

Small Business BC is hosting a free day of education. at Victoria Conference Centre.

Date: February 8

Location: Victoria Conference Centre

Build. Grow. Thrive. will equip attendees with the skills needed to navigate today's rapidly changing economy. 

Export Navigator's own Jason Seed and Brady Calancie will present one of the sessions on the day, walking attendees through the resources available to help get started exporting. Join the small business community, network with fellow business owners, and learn the skills you need to navigate a rapidly changing economy.

Learn more HERE.

January 17 - February 4

Explore the unlimited tastes of British Columbia during the annual Dine Around, taking place at various locations from January 17th through to February 11th. Check out participants who are eager to showcase their exquisite menus. Highlighted regions: Central Okanagan, South Okanagan, Kamloops, Northern BC, Kootenays, Greater Vancouver, Victoria and the Central Island.

Visit HERE to learn more about the Dine, Sip & Savour locations.

Dine Out Vancouver Festival

January 17 - February 4

Save the date for the annual Dine Out Vancouver Festival, which has grown into Canada’s largest food and drink festival. The festival comes complete with a full schedule of delicious events and experiences in addition to hundreds of restaurants offering three-or more course menus at select prices. The festival also includes special hotel offers to help make an overnight Dine Out experience both safe and relaxing.

Learn more and follow for the event activities HERE.

Okanagan Winter Wine Festival

Join in as Valley First presents WINTER SIPS-South; a grand tasting taking place at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre. This is the kick off evening to a weekend of wonderful winter programming in the Okanagan.

Date: Saturday, January 20

Time: 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm

Location: Penticton Trade and Convention Centre Ballroom, 273 Power Street, Penticton

Tickets are $95.00 plus taxes and fees. Subscribers receive 10% off tickets with your promo code EARLYBIRD10 until December 20, 2023

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

IMPACT 2024

A partnership between Destination Greater Victoria, Synergy Enterprises, Tartan Bond Integrated Communications and Starrboard Enterprises.

IMPACT is a collaborative national dialogue on innovation. Do you:

• Design policies that affect tourism?
• Teach a tourism and hospitality course?
• Care about tourism’s positive or negative impacts on communities?
• Believe the positive, sustainable growth of tourism in Canada is a key economic driver?

Then IMPACT is for you.

Date: January 21-24

Location: Victoria

Registration is NOW OPEN - Visit HERE for more information.

Dine Around Stay in Town Victoria 2024

The off-peak season is a challenging time for the hospitality industry in Greater Victoria. The Dine Around and Stay in Town (DASIT) program has an important mission: to drive more traffic through Victoria business doors during a typically slower time of year.

Date: January 26 - February 11

Gala Tickets: Coming Soon

Learn more about the event, and how you can participate HERE.

International Indigenous

Tourism Conference

The 2024 Indigenous International Tourism Conference (IITC) is on the horizon!

IITC is a gathering of industry professionals, community leaders, entrepreneurs, and partners dedicated to promoting and celebrating the vibrant world of Indigenous tourism. The purpose is to showcase the diverse cultures, traditions, and tourism experiences offered by Indigenous communities in Canada and beyond.

But here's the catch – it's time to seize the moment and grab your Super Early Bird tickets before they're gone!

Date: February 26-28

Location: Ottawa, Ontario

Registration is NOW OPEN - Visit HERE for more information.

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.

Mark your calendars and plan to attend! More details are available 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 | National Tourism Week

Get set for this year’s weeklong celebration of tourism in Canada! 

Now in its 14th year, National Tourism Week is an annual invitation for all tourism partners to come together to champion and promote Canada’s destinations, tourism businesses, and employees – from coast-to-coast-to-coast.

This year’s campaign will take place April 15-19.

Details to soon follow.

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