November 15, 2024

CEO MESSAGE

Actor Tom Sellick is renowned for starring in two popular television series…the first as the Ferrari-driving private investigator in the original Magnum P.I., and more recently, as New York City Police Chief Frank Reagan in Blue Bloods. Although he’s been in show business for nearly five decades, Selleck is arguably more famous for his signature moustache. I once met him in person and can vouch that it’s a thing of beauty.

When the original Magnum P.I. was at its peak and it’s hairy star considered a heartthrob , my wife encouraged me to grow a moustache, which she ultimately hated so it disappeared in a fraction of the time it took me to grow my little line of peach fuzz. Truth is I gave it a valiant effort but my stache looked more like Salvador Dali’s than Thomas Magnum’s.

Decades later though I’m trying again, not to look like Chief Reagan but rather for a good cause that I’m supporting in a small way. As you may know, it’s Movember where dudes all over the world grow moustaches over a 30-day period as a symbol representing healthier men and a healthier world.

By way of background, Movember is a charity that funds men’s health projects in multiple countries. It’s focus revolves around mental health and suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer.

According to Movember, men’s health is in crisis. Nearly 11 million males globally are battling prostate cancer while testicular cancer is the most common among the young generation. Sadly, one man dies by suicide every minute of every day. The reality is many blokes like me are dying too soon, some from diseases that are either preventable or treatable.

I doubt there is a single person reading this message that hasn’t been affected, either directly or indirectly, by mental health, suicide or cancer. Having walked this road with family members and friends in recent years prompted me to participate in Movember for the first time.

To be sure, there are many charities or organizations that support similar endeavours for all people, which I also highly endorse. For the record, I'm not appealing for money or asking anyone to support this campaign versus others but a big part of what Movember represents just happens to hit close to home for me this year. In fact, since the pandemic, TIABC has shared mental health information and resources for the tourism industry through our multiple communications channels, as well as our annual conference. And we'll continue to do so.

In the meantime, thanks to a grant from the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions, go2HR has partnered with the BC Division of Canadian Mental Health Association to provide industry-specific mental health training for tourism and hospitality employees, supervisors, managers and senior leaders. These courses have been developed with industry guidance to cover relevant workplace concerns, focusing on psychological health & safety. Importantly, several community and regional destination management organizations also offer similar resources. Be sure to check them out when you get a chance.

When I arrived back home from my last business trip of the year, my wife looked at me and said, “the moustache actually looks good on you,” which she admitted was a backhanded compliment. She then suggested that I dye it from gray to black to look more like Tom Selleck’s.

At least for now I’ll leave well enough alone and use my evolving silver moustache (no matter how good or bad it looks) as an opportunity to inform and educate family, friends and colleagues on what my new Movember look symbolizes.

On a related note….I, along with TIABC’s board and staff wish to offer our deepest condolences to the family of John Horgan who served as Premier of British Columbia from 2017 to 2022. Premier Horgan helped steer our industry and province through an extremely difficult time and was very responsive to our request for support during COVID. I personally met with him on multiple occasions and he often sought TIABC’s input and advice throughout his tenure. He was a good man who served BC well and will be missed.

Walt Judas

CEO, TIABC

EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!

Early-bird registration is now open for the 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference. Early-bird rates will be available until January 15, 2025.

Detailed programming including updates on keynote speakers, engaging sessions and networking opportunities will be released soon. Until then, we encourage you to visit the conference website for details on travel, accommodation and conference sponsorship opportunities.

Secure your spot today! This is a must attend event, and we look forward to seeing you in Vancouver next year!

Book of Condolences Available for

Former Premier John Horgan

Members of the public are invited to share messages of sympathy in memory of John Horgan, British Columbia’s 36th premier.

A book of condolences is available online through the link below.

In addition to the online book, a book of condolences will be available in the Hall of Honour at the Parliament Buildings in Victoria. It will be available for signing on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

The books will remain available to sign until the day after his memorial service, the date of which is to be determined.

All messages will be compiled and presented to John Horgan’s family.

TIABC Responds to City of Mission's Decision to Shutter Tourism Mission

The Tourism Industry Association of British Columbia (TIABC) has responded to a recent announcement from the City of Mission, advising of Council's decision to shutter Tourism Mission as of December 31, 2024.

In a letter to the city, TIABC urged Council to reconsider its motion and instead support Tourism Mission as the city’s destination management organization (DMO) for the benefit of local residents, businesses, visitors and the

community at-large.

The letter stated the importance that DMOs like Tourism Mission provide to local communities, and highlighted the many notable achievements Tourism Mission has delivered over the years, stressing that the impact of shuttering Tourism Mission will be profound to small businesses, including restaurants, retailers, accommodation providers, transportation companies, attractions and various suppliers by the closure.

Read the full letter to the City of Mission HERE.

go2HR Release October Labour Market Information

According to the most recent go2HR Labour Market report released earlier this week, employment in BC’s tourism and hospitality sector increased by 2.9% from September to October 2024, indicating a modest recovery following previous declines. Despite this rise, current employment remains slightly below pre-COVID levels.

A summary of notable trends that emerged on data from August to October, 2024 are as follows:

• Gradual Employment Recovery: After a steady decline over the summer, employment in the tourism and hospitality sector rose by 2.9% from September to October, suggesting a possible shift in hiring patterns or seasonal adjustments.
•  
• Regional Variability in Employment: Employment change in October varied significantly by region. The Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island regions saw gains, surpassing pre-COVID levels, while the Cariboo, Northern BC, and Thompson Okanagan regions continued to lag behind their pre-COVID benchmarks.
•  
• Sector-Specific Employment Shifts: Employment growth occurred in the Accommodation, Food & Beverage, and Recreation & Entertainment sectors, while the Transportation & Travel sector experienced declines.
•  
• Labour Force and Unemployment Trends: The tourism and hospitality labour force increased by 4.3% from September to October, with growth in most regions but losses on Vancouver Island. However, the unemployment rate rose from 4.1% in September to 5.5% in October, slightly above pre-COVID rates, indicating potential labour market mismatches or reduced job availability.

Learn more on the most up to date employment data from go2HR in the Employment Tracker HERE.

ABLE BC Release 2024 Advocacy Report

"Resiliency in Action"

ABLE BC has released its 2024 Advocacy Report - "Resiliency in Action", highlighting the many achievements of the organization in the past 12 months.

This has included winning the allowance for LRS licensees to temporarily relocate during significant renovations, increasing the liquor licensee transfer limit to $100,000 annually, and ensuring cannabis retailers have permission to accept free product samples from licensed producers marketing licensees.

Read ABLE BC’s 2024 Advocacy Report: Resiliency in Action to learn more about the ABLE BC team and Board of Directors 2024 accomplishments HERE.

Wines of BC Release 2nd Quarter Review

Celebrate the Wines of British Columbia provides a quarterly review of Wine Growers BC (WGBC) activities, including marketing, communications, advocacy and more.

This issue covers the second quarter (Q2) of Fiscal Year 2025: July, August, and September of 2024, in support of the objectives laid out in the Operational Plan and Wine BC 2030. Highlights of the second quarter of their fiscal year marked the culmination of the highly successful Sip, Smile & Stay Awhile summer BC wine tourism campaign, as well as recognizing the strategic partnerships forged by the Wines of BC brand to elevate the promotion of BC wine.

Download and read the report HERE.

New Program Aims to Spark Innovative Tourism Ideas in the Sunshine Coast/qathet Region

Local and provincial tourism partners launched a new program in the Sunshine Coast/qathet region this week.

The Sunshine Coast “Spark” Mentorships & Grants Program will match selected applicants from the area with a tourism mentor, provide $3,000 in seed funds, and offer additional partner support to bring their new tourism ideas to life.

The goal is to find, advance, and support new tourism ideas, experiences, and partnerships that will enhance current offerings, address gaps or challenges, motivate travel and longer stays, increase year-round visits, and encourage collaboration between tourism operators.

Applications are encouraged from tourism entrepreneurs, small businesses, and non-profit organizations based in the Sunshine Coast/qathet region from November 13 to December 12.

Learn more including how to apply HERE.

Destination Canada Seeking New

President & CEO

Marsha Walden Leaving Post

With bold vision, resilience, agility, and unwavering commitment, Marsha Walden has led Destination Canada and the sector through extraordinary challenges over the past four years. This has included navigating the pandemic, steering industry through an uneven recovery, and spearheading a new collective vision and strategy. With these achievements marking her tenure, Marsha Walden will pass the torch to a new leader as her mandate concludes in 2025.

The Government of Canada has launched the search for a new president and CEO who will build upon this solid, transformative vision. The successful applicant will lead Destination Canada's continued efforts to build a thriving visitor economy, one that delivers countless benefits for communities from coast-to-coast-to-coast. 

Learn more about the requirements needed for this position HERE.

Tourism Kimberley Announce New

Executive Director

Following an in-depth search, Tourism Kimberley has announced Andrew McNair has joined the organization as its new executive director. 

Andrew has an extensive professional background and passion for the tourism and outdoor adventure industry, with his most recent position being with the Tourism Industry Association of New Brunswick. 

TIABC's Board of Directors and team join in congratulating Andrew on his appointment and looks forward to working with him as he embarks on his new position.

Read more about the introduction to Andrew McNair HERE.

CCCT Announces New Chair and

Board Members

At the recent Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association (CCCTA) AGM, Shannon Lansdowne of Bella Coola Mountain Lodge was selected at the new board chair.

Outgoing chair Andre Kuerbis from AFK Consulting continues as a director. Additional members joining the CCCT board are:

• Chair – Shannon Lansdowne, Bella Coola Mountain Lodge
• Vice-Chair – Marshall Fremlin, Siwash Lake Wilderness Resort
• Secretary/Treasurer – Mike Retasket, Aboriginal Affects Consulting
• Director – Andre Kuerbis, AFK Consulting
• Director – Gerald Kirby, Tatla Lake Manor
• Director – Colleen Peters, Woodlands Fishin Resort 

Learn more about the CCCTA HERE.

In Memoriam | Kevan Ridgway

TIABC's Board and staff are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Kevan Ridgway, former president & CEO of the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains Tourism Region.

As a long-time friend, industry colleague and advocate within the sector, he dedicated many years to promoting the beauty and potential of our province, inspiring countless others to share in his love for BC and the region he represented. Kevan worked closely with local communities to develop tourism, secure funding, and implement the 2% hotel tax. His contributions to the industry will be long remembered.

We extend our sincere condolences to the family of Kevan and honour his legacy.

ICYMI | Webinar - DMO Strategies for Sustainable Food Practices in Tourism & Hospitality

Last week, DMO's and tourism and hospitality businesses joined Ben Liegey, founder and CEO of BetterTable who delivered an engaging webinar on effective DMO strategies for implementing sustainable food practices in the hotel and restaurant industry. Participants learned first hand in a panel discussion how RDMO’s CDMO’s and industry leaders are developing best practices and innovative approaches while working to support their stakeholders on their

Panel participants:  

• Ellen Walker-Matthews, CEO, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association
• Nancy Small, CEO, Tourism Richmond
• Julia Canton, Sustainability Manager, Huntington Hotel & Suites

This webinar was a joint partnership between the BCDMOA and TIABC. View the recording in the link below.

OKGo Campaign Wins Community

Collaboration Award

A collaborative OKGo marketing campaign has been honoured with an Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC) 2024 Marketing Award in the Community Collaboration category. This award category, newly created this year, recognizes projects that improve services, create new processes, and deliver measurable results through teamwork. The OKGo campaign exemplifies these values by promoting the Central Okanagan to drive future innovation and economic growth in the region.

Created through a partnership between the Regional District of Central Okanagan’s Economic Development Commission (COEDC), Accelerate Okanagan, and Tourism Kelowna, the OKGo campaign highlights the business support ecosystem available in the Central Okanagan, while showcasing local companies as it relates to innovation, entrepreneurship, and infrastructure.

Read the full announcement from Tourism Kelowna HERE.

Premier’s New Cabinet

Will be Sworn-in November 18

A new cabinet under the leadership of Premier David Eby is set to be sworn-in on November 18th at Government House.

Since the election, a transition team has been making recommendations to the Premier regarding the formations of ministries and structures across government, as well as the selection of new cabinet ministers. The transition team is co-chaired by Doug White, the Premier’s special counsel on Indigenous reconciliation and Shannon Salter, the Premier’s deputy minister and head of the public service.

The Premier will present his recommendations for cabinet to Janet Austin, B.C.’s Lieutenant Governor, thereby establishing the new government. The ceremony will take place at the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor at Government House in Victoria.

Read the official announcement from government HERE.

EQUA

EQUA is an insurance brokerage and risk management company, with offices in Vancouver, Calgary, Regina & Toronto, providing customized insurance and risk management solutions.

Learn more about EQUA HERE.

Would you like to be featured in our weekly Voice of Tourism newsletter, social channels or on our website? TIABC member testimonials provide visibility and exposure to the tourism industry and a wider audience for your business. 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.

Register Today! TIABC AGM



NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual General meeting of the Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) will be held on the following date and location:

Date: Tuesday, December 10, 2024

Location: Virtual

Time: 9:00 am - 10:30 am (PST)

The meeting is called for the purposes of:

• To receive the financial statements of the Association for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023
• To approve the minutes of the November 9, 2023 Annual General Meeting
• To elect six (6) Directors 

Voting Authorization:

One individual at the AGM, who will have been granted authority to be the voting representative of the relevant member, will represent each TIABC member business, sector association or Destination Management/Marketing Organization (DMO). The member must be in good standing with the organization.

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Per: J.J. Belanger

Chair, Tourism Industry Association of BC

Learn more including how to register, review the Notice of Motions and nominees for the 2024-2026 TIABC Board and how to vote in advance by ballot in the following link.

Half Corked Marathon | General Lottery Now Open!

You're one step closer to becoming a 2025 Half Corked Marathon participant.

Enter your details below for your chance to win the 2025 Half Corked Marathon Lottery! Winners will be selected at random and contacted with the opportunity to purchase tickets to the event, which takes place on Saturday May 31st, 2025 in Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country. 

Learn more and enter to win HERE.

6th Annual Spirit of Hospitality Lottery

Has Launched!

Last year, with the incredible support from our hospitality and tourism partners, we raised $34,000, and this year, we’re setting our sights on $60,000. We truly believe this goal is within reach, but we need the collective power of the entire hospitality community to make it happen.

This year's prizes are fantastic – including a stay at the St. Regis in Aspen, a Rocky Mountaineer rail tour, a Big White Ski Vacation, and a trip to Quebec City. These are sure to inspire people to participate, and with your help, we can spread the word and drive ticket sales.

• Lottery Closes: November 25
• Draw Date: November 26
• Next Early Bird Draw: November 12

Together, we can make a real difference. Please feel free to reach out if you need any additional information, and thank you so much for your continued support.

Learn more HERE, including how you can donate and how your business or organization can get involved!

WORKSHOP

Supervisors, Managers Needed to Enhance Key Tourism Resource

The Tourism Competency Framework is the sector’s digital library of the knowledge and skills needed for a wide range of tourism occupations. Hosted on the Workforce Management Engine, its competencies are used to develop National Occupational Standards, training resources, and professional certification programs.

As part of maintaining the quality of this important resource, Tourism HR Canada has developed new competencies to be added: these relate to leadership, client retention strategy, e-commerce, revenue management, health & wellness, workplace inspections, working from heights, and creativity.

Tourism HR Canada is seeking supervisors and managers in any tourism-related business or role to share their expertise to review the new competencies and provide feedback. Participate in a guided virtual working group.

Date: November 18

Time: 10:00am - 1:00 pm (PST)

Learn more and register HERE.

Student Work Placement Program

Propel offers tourism, hospitality, and travel employers access to wage subsidies when they hire a post-secondary student for work-integrated learning: an internship, a co-op placement, a work experience placement, and more.

Join this one-hour virtual session to learn:

• Why work-integrated learning matters

• Who qualifies for the Propel program

• Where to post a job

• How to apply for a wage subsidy

• When the subsidy is available, and more.

Date: November 21 @ 10:00 am (PST) 

A Q&A component will follow the presentation. Registrants can submit questions in advance via the registration form.

Learn more and register HERE.

Parkinson Ready Program Coming

to Vancouver

The World Parkinson Coalition is bringing its award-winning “Parkinson Ready” program to Vancouver. As the fastest growing neurological disease on the planet, you are probably interacting with people with Parkinson’s regularly, do you know how to support them?

This FREE one-hour program is designed for professionals working on the front lines of the tourism and hospitality industry. Offered in-person, led by a locally based physical therapist and person with Parkinson’s, this program is designed to help people working in positions that interact with local citizens and tourists who may have Parkinson’s to:

1. Better understand Parkinson's disease, and
2. Increase their comfort level in working with and supporting people with Parkinson's

Dates: November 25 or 26

Location: Vancouver Convention Centre

This is an amazing opportunity to prepare to meet this growing community. Limited seating, so we strongly encourage registering for a seat.

Learn more HERE.

Read the press release fron the World Parkinson's Coalition HERE.

Unlocking Business Potential with

Parks Canada

Gain insider knowledge and practical advice on securing business licensing and contracting opportunities with Parks Canada. This is a unique chance to access valuable insights to enhance your success with Parks Canada-administered sites.

What You’ll Learn:

During this session, you will learn directly from procurement and realty teams about the business licensing process for Parks Canada-administered sites. You’ll receive practical advice on navigating the administrative requirements and a clearer understanding of Parks Canada’s vetting process, including important ecological sensitivity and cultural resource protection considerations. Additionally, you’ll gain essential tips on bidding requirements and discover how to access contracting opportunities effectively.

Date: Wednesday, November 27

Time: 11:00 am - Noon (PST) - Virtual - TIAC Members Only

Learn more and register HERE.

Destination Canada | Annual Public Meeting

Save the date for Destination Canada’s Annual Public Meeting (APM), which will feature the official launch of their highly-anticipated Wealth & Wellbeing Index.

Date: Thursday, November 28

Time: 10:00 (PST) - Virtual

Learn more and register HERE.

BC Chamber of Commerce | Annual Premier & Cabinet Luncheon

The BC Chamber of Commerce is delighted to welcome Premier David Eby, members of Cabinet* and Parliamentary Secretaries to its annual Premier & Cabinet Luncheon, a flagship event that offers business leaders the opportunity to connect with the Executive Council​ of the provincial government.

Attracting over 200 guests from across the province, the event offers a coveted opportunity for leaders from private and not-for-profit sectors and First Nations to engage in deep dialogue with members of the Executive Council and Parliamentary Secretaries on issues that matter most in today's business climate.

* The Cabinet will be sworn in this month and an invite will be extended to ministers and parliamentary secretaries at that time.

Date: Tuesday, December 10

Time: 11.00am - 2.00pm (PST)

Location: The event will be held in downtown Vancouver and the venue will be shared with registrants 1-2 days in advance.

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

SFI 2024 Big Splash Raffle

The Sport Fishing Institute (SFI) is excited to announce the annual Big Splash Raffle has launched. Early Bird tickets are now available. Prize draw deadline comes quick!

• SFI Big Splash Raffle Sales Deadline: Midnight, Friday, December 27
• SFI Big Splash Raffle Draw: Saturday, December 28 at 12:00 pm

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

Vancouver Aquarium | Holiday Splash

There's no place like Vancouver Aquarium for the holidays! Soak up moments of holiday magic with more than 1 million twinkling lights, enchanting decor, a larger-than-life Jellyfish Snow Globe, and so much more.

No matter where your adventure leads—from daily Scuba Claus dives to a festive 4D experience—Vancouver Aquarium is flowing with holiday spirit.

To learn more about events at the Vancouver Aquarium, including Holiday Splash, visit HERE.

BCHA Annual General Meeting

Join in the BC Hotel Association's (BCHA) Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Date: Tuesday, November 19

Location: Fairmont Waterfront, Vancouver

Time: Registration 3:30 pm, AGM 4:00 pm

We’ll explore key milestones, financial insights, and strategic initiatives shaping our industry's future, with a full agenda that includes the Chair’s and Treasurer’s reports, governance updates, new business discussions, and the election of a Director At Large. 

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

Boating BC Conference

Enjoy discounted tickets, and as a special bonus, all early bird registrants from now until October 11th will automatically be entered for a chance to win a pair of tickets to the Grey Cup at BC Place on November 17, plus a complimentary one-night stay at the conference host hotel, Delta Hotel & Casino. Early Bird Tickets Now Available!

Conference Details:

Dates: November 19-20 

Location: Cascades Casino Delta

Included with your registration is exclusive access to Marina Night on November 18, from 7:00 - 9:00 pm. This special event will bring together leading experts from the marine industry, offering valuable insights and discussions. It’s an evening you won’t want to miss!

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

Save the Date! VCM Industry Forum

Mark your calendars for the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains Industry Forum.

Date: November 21

Location: Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront, Vancouver.

This free, annual event is for tourism businesses and Community Destination Management Organizations in the VCM region. Learn more about tourism trends, major events, sustainability, and more.

Learn more and register HERE.

Save the Date - 2024 Policy Conference & Big Splash Gala

The Sport Fishing Institute of BC (SFI) will hold its annual Policy Conference. This year's theme is Selective and Sustainable. This is a highly anticipated forum where elected officials, public servants and those in the sport fishing industry can meet, share their perspectives on the issues facing the recreational fishery and discuss expectations for the coming seasons. As last year, SFI will be providing the Pacific Salmon Foundation a portion of the day to share details about programs and projects that are funded by revenues generated from sales of the Salmon Conservation stamp on your tidal waters licence.

Date: November 29

Location: Vancouver Convention Centre

Following the Conference is the Big Splash Gala and Fundraiser.

More information and ticket purchases are available HERE.

WinterFest 2024

WinterFest, the Royal BC Museum's outdoor multicultural holiday market, is back for another year.

Celebrating arts, culture and community, WinterFest brings together the best parts of the holiday season. Food, warm drinks and multicultural performances pair with local artists and artisans for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Dates: November 30 & December 1

Times: 10 am -5 pm 

Learn more HERE.

27th Annual CITAP+ Winter Function

You are cordially invited to save the date for the 27th CITAP+ Winter Function.

Date: Tuesday, December 3

Location: River Rock Casino Resort, Richmond

The event will be a full day in a familiar format, including morning educational sessions, the afternoon marketplace, and the dinner reception.

 Registration is now open! Early bird pricing is in effect until Friday, October 18 at 5pm PT. Sponsorship packages are available HERE. Please note that your 2024 CITAP+ membership must be in good standing in order to register for the Winter Function.

Tourism Congress 2024

Join the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) in beautiful Vancouver for an immersive conference experience that brings together tourism leaders, stakeholders, and innovators from across Canada and beyond. Get ready to share insights, explore new ideas, and celebrate our industry's resilience and creativity. We are thrilled the Tourism Congress is hitting the road this year.

Dates: December 3-5

Location: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre

Learn more about Tourism Congress including group booking opportunities HERE.

GVHA Harbour Holiday Light Up

Get ready to experience the magic of the holidays at GVHA’s Harbour Holiday Light Up!

This festive evening, proudly supported by Ocean 98.5, will feature sparkling light displays that illuminate the harbour in holiday cheer.

Enjoy a cozy treat with 500 free hot chocolates and cookies decorated with a special orca design, and explore seasonal offerings from vendors and food trucks. Don’t miss this chance to welcome the holidays as we light up the harbour!

Dates: December 5, 2024

Time: 5pm - 7pm

Location: Inner Harbour, lower causeway and Ship Point pier

Learn more about the Holiday Light Up HERE.

Barkerville’s Olde-Fashioned Christmas

Barkerville Historic Town & Park is thrilled to announce the return of the beloved Olde-Fashioned Christmas event. This enchanting weekend promises festive cheer and delightful experiences for everyone.

Visitors can look forward to browsing a variety of unique gifts, handcrafted items, and seasonal treats that perfectly capture the holiday spirit.

Dates: December 14 & 15

Mark your calendars and join us in Barkerville for an unforgettable Olde-Fashioned Christmas celebration. Learn more HERE.

SOS Coalition Announces

"Communities Driving Change" Forum

With crime, violence and street disorder plaguing communities large and small across British Columbia, BC’s Save Our Streets coalition (SOS) will hold a day-long “Communities Driving Change” Forum.

Date: January 23, 2025

Location: Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue, Vancouver

The Forum will explore solutions to these issues with community and business leaders, subject experts and political leaders.

The Forum, will feature moderated panel discussions, keynote expert speakers, and opportunities for virtual community participation from around the province. Topics to include judicial reform and resources, policing, addictions and mental illnesses, and the role of housing as components of the solution.

Note: If you have registered for the previous date of September 12th, 2024 and the date doesn't work for yoru schedule, please reach out and your registration will be cancelled.

Read the official news release and learn more about the SOS initiative HERE.

Registration Now Open

The 8th Annual IMPACT Sustainable Tourism & Travel Summit will be held again in Victoria.

Day of Impact: January 26, 2025

Dates of Conference: January 27-29, 2025

Early-bird registration is now open. Visit HERE.

Save The Date | SPARK!

BC Liquor and Cannabis Conference

ABLE BC is excited to announce the return of SPARK! Join in on Wednesday, March 5, 2025 at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre for BC's premier liquor and cannabis conference. 

Date: March 5, 2025

Location: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre, Vancouver

The highly anticipated third annual SPARK conference returns revamped and revived with a focus on liquor primaries, private liquor stores, and now private cannabis stores!

Get pumped for a full day of advocacy updates, networking with like-minded business owners, and learning from industry experts in the liquor and cannabis fields. Stay tuned for more details, including registration, early bird pricing, sponsorship opportunities, and programming.

Learn more HERE.

Save the Date | BC Chamber of Commerce AGM & Conference

Join us in Nanaimo to explore this vibrant urban centre found on the east side of beautiful Vancouver Island, located on the traditional territories of the Coast

Salish Peoples - Snuneymuxw, Snaw-naw-as, and Stz'uminus.

Date: June 3-5, 2025

Location: Vancouver Island Conference Centre, Nanaimo

More information and registration to be available soon!