In honour of Remembrance Day, our office will be closed Monday, November 11th. We will resume our regular business hours on Tuesday, November 12th.

TIABC's Board of Directors and staff join Canadians nationwide in remembering those who served and gave the ultimate sacrifice. We also honour those who continue to serve our country and express our gratitude for their service. Lest We Forget.

Remembrance Day ceremonies are held in communities across the province. Find your local ceremony through THIS LINK.

November 8, 2024

CEO MESSAGE

The first time Donald Trump was elected as President of the United States, I was watching live election coverage from an all-inclusive resort in Puerto Vallarta with a room full of Americans who were loud, boisterous, and clearly had been drinking all day.

As you can imagine, there was a giant hangover the morning after as many folks with bleary eyes expressed shock, dismay, fear, and other emotions as they contemplated what life might look like with Trump as POTUS over the course of the next four years. Some half-jokingly said they would be hiding out in Mexico or moving to Canada for the duration of his term.

However, there were those that loved the idea of a businessperson in the White House, citing the need for a leader that understands the economy, is tough on crime and illegal immigration, stands up to foreign leaders, and ‘makes America great again’.

For better or for worse, we saw what Trump did (or didn’t do if you prefer) during his first term, and now that he’s back for round two starting in January, even Canadians are a little nervous. From a tourism perspective, there is the prospect that we might see tighter border security again, leading to longer wait times and potentially reducing travel between our two countries. There is also the possibility that Trump’s plan to implement tariffs on multiple products will further strain his relationship with Prime Minister Trudeau and lead to a U.S. call for Americans to stay home rather than vacation abroad to places like Canada.

Conversely, Trump’s economic policies may strengthen the U.S. dollar which could elevate Canada as a destination of choice (especially for border states) should the Canadian dollar fall even further against the US greenback. For the time being though, we’re in a holding pattern vis-à-vis new U.S. policies until after the inauguration in January.

On the topic of elections and leaders, TIABC can finally put plans in place to build relationships and lobby the new BC government on policies that benefit tourism now that Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) have either completed their orientation and/or returned to work. Some 56 of the 93 MLAs are newbies and many will not be intimately familiar with the sector associations that represent the visitor economy, let alone the broader BC tourism and hospitality industry.

In the meantime, many advocacy organizations like TIABC are looking forward to November 18th when Premier Eby appoints his new cabinet, which will be decidedly different than prior to the election given the defeat or retirement of multiple key ministers representing files that touch the tourism portfolio. To that end, it’s incumbent on all sector associations, DMOs, and individual business operators to be part of the advocacy process and reach out to local MLAs and cabinet ministers to ensure the tourism industry receives its share of attention and reaches its goal to become the most recognized and valued business sector for residents of British Columbia.

This year I watched US election night coverage from Manning Park Lodge after day one of the BC Lodging & Campgrounds Ideas Forum. There was a buzz in the room at breakfast the following morning as colleagues contemplated the ramifications of another Trump presidency for Canada. I half-jokingly suggested to some operators that many Americans are likely to show up at their RV resorts at about the time Trump takes office. Thankfully operators at the BCLCA Ideas Forum listened to a presentation from a lawyer this week on how to manage extended stay guests. What they may need now though is guidance on how to deal with Americans drowning their sorrows for another four years.

Walt Judas

CEO, TIABC

Strong Local Government Experience in New Provincial Government

According to the recent update from the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM), last month's provincial election saw many Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) elected with local government experience. Of the 93 elected MLAs, over 27% or 25 MLAs are former councillors, mayors or regional district board members.

There are 15 members of the government caucus and 11 members of the official opposition caucus with local government backgrounds. They are as follows:

BC New Democratic Party

• MLA Anne Kang, Burnaby Centre – former councillor, City of Burnaby
• MLA Debra Toporowski, Cowichan Valley – former councillor, North Cowichan
• MLA Darlene Rotchford, Esquimalt-Colwood – former councillor, Township of Esquimalt
• MLA Dana Lajeunesse, Juan de Fuca-Malahat – former councillor, District of Sooke
• MLA Brittny Anderson, Kootenay Central – former councillor, City of Nelson, and representative on the Regional District of Central Kootenay
• MLA Steve Morissette, Kootenay-Monashee – former Mayor, Village of Fruitvale
• MLA Josie Osborne, Mid-Island/Pacific Rim – former Mayor, District of Tofino, and former Chair and Vice-Chair for the Alberni Clayoquot Regional District
• MLA Sheila Malcolmson, Nanaimo-Gabriola Island – former Chair, Islands Trust
• MLA George Anderson, Nanaimo-Lantzville – former councillor, City of Nanaimo, and board member, Regional District of Nanaimo
• MLA Mike Farnworth, Port Coquitlam – former councillor, City of Port Coquitlam
• MLA Rick Glumac, Port Moody-Burquitlam – former councillor, City of Port Moody
• MLA Kelly Greene, Richmond-Steveston – former councillor, City of Richmond
• MLA George Chow, Vancouver-Fraserview – former councillor, City of Vancouver
• MLA Christine Boyle, Vancouver-Little Mountain – former councillor, City of Vancouver

BC Conservative Party

• MLA Bruce Banman, Abbotsford South – former Mayor and councillor, City of Abbotsford
• MLA Sharon Hartwell, Bulkley Valley-Stikine – former Mayor and councillor, Village of Telkwa
• MLA Ian Paton, Delta South – former councillor, City of Delta
• MLA Tony Luck, Fraser Nicola – former councillor, City of Mission and City of Merritt
• MLA Peter Milobar, Kamloops Centre – former councillor and Mayor, City of Kamloops, and former Chair of the Thomson-Nicola Regional District
• MLA Ward Stamer, Kamloops-North Thompson – former Mayor, District of Barriere
• MLA Misty Van Popta, Langley-Walnut Grove – former councillor, Township of Langley
• MLA Jordan Kealy, Peace River North – former electoral area director, Peace River Regional District
• MLA Amelia Boultbee, Penticton-Summerland – former councillor, City of Penticton
• MLA Claire Rattée, Skeena – former councillor, City of Kitimat
• MLA Linda Hepner, Surrey-Serpentine River – former councillor and Mayor, City of Surrey

Note: Members of the Legislative Assembly have been certified in 90 of 93 electoral districts. The results of the elections in the electoral districts of Kelowna Centre, Prince George-Mackenzie and Surrey-Guildford are subject to Judicial Recount.

To learn more on Members of the Legislative Assembly, including contact information, visit THIS LINK. Updates will be made available.

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.

TIABC Launches Theme for

2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference

"Tourism for All - Embracing the Journey"

Tourism is a key part of every BC community and provides economic, social, environmental, and cultural benefits for residents and visitors alike.

As the industry evolves, so too does the need to embrace sustainable practices, encourage slow tourism, and promote connections between travelers and local communities that enriches the journey of personal growth and meaningful experiences for all.

Stay tuned in the weeks ahead, and visit the BC Tourism Conference website as we announce registration and program highlights.

Government Providing Funding to Support Small Business in BC

The Government of Canada is making investments in tourism and small businesses across the province through two recent funding announcements from the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan).

Through PacifiCan’s Tourism Growth Program, more than $725K will be distributed across four organizations based in the Thompson Okanagan to attract visitors and drive local economic growth. Through this support:

• Thompson Okanagan Tourism Foundation is receiving $250K in funding to restore the historic Adra Tunnel on the Kettle Valley Rail Trail in Naramata.
• Silver Star Freestyle Club is receiving $250K to create a state-of-the-art freestyle ski and snowboard training park at SilverStar Mountain Resort in Vernon.
• Hunters Range Snowmobile Association is receiving $65K to upgrade its grooming equipment and trail infrastructure in Enderby for an improved rider experience.
• Wine Growers British Columbia Society is receiving $162.5K to create a user-friendly trip planning resource on its website.

Pacifican also announced support for small businesses in BC through $2.7 million in funding for Small Business BC. Small Business BC supports BC entrepreneurs in starting and growing their businesses through free resources, seminars, grants, personalized advice, and more.

Read the official announcement from Government HERE.

DBC Launches Beta Test of HelloBC AI Concierge

Supporting Digital Visitor Servicing

Destination BC (DBC) has released in beta the HelloBC AI Concierge: a ‘chatbot’ tool that enhances visitor servicing on the consumer trip inspiration and planning website, HelloBC.com. As interest and capabilities in artificial intelligence continue to surge, this technology will play a valuable role in supporting BC's tourism industry and improving the online user experience for both travelers and residents.

The Concierge offers a 24/7 resource for general tourism inquiries, providing customized assistance with trip planning and destination insights. The Concierge delivers information drawn from the HelloBC.com platform and a province-wide tourism network of over 30 DMO partners, popular attractions, and ski resorts as well as extensive data from Destination BC’s Digital Strategy and Tourism Data Hub team members.

Learn more from DBC HERE.

DYK | ITBC Provides Free Tourism Training

Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) offers free tourism training for current and aspiring Indigenous tourism workers, employers and communities in BC.  

Through training workshops, access to learning resources and work placement opportunities, ITBC aims to empower the Indigenous tourism industry and workforce through its Indigenous Tourism Training Initiative (ITTI).

ITTI empowers Indigenous tourism professionals to take the lead. They partner with industry experts to deliver quality tourism training across the province as well as offer in-house ITBC workshops led by their team.

Learn more about the fully-funding training program HERE.

Victoria's Cruise Season Ends with 

Strong Results

Victoria’s 2024 cruise season ended on October 30th, with the departure of the Norwegian Jewel. It was the 316th cruise ship call of the year at the Breakwater District. According to the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA), the 2024 season was comparable to 2023, ensuring Victoria continues to enjoy sustained economic benefits from the cruise ship industry.

In total, Victoria saw 316 calls and close to 970,000 passengers. In 2023, GVHA welcomed 326 ship calls and 970,000 cruise visitors. The 2024 season began on April 3rd and two cruise ships made inaugural calls to Victoria in 2024 - both ships were welcomed by representatives from the Lək̓ʷəŋən People.

To review the draft schedule for cruise ship arrivals in 2025, visit the GVHA cruise schedule page HERE. 

Sustainability Storybook Showcases

Team Canada's Solutions

Destination Canada's Sustainability Storybook shares many sustainability initiatives available for business events across Canada. It also presents many of these turnkey solutions from communities across Canada, to inspire and challenge business events decision makers, planners, sustainability professionals and host destinations everywhere.

Each sustainability solution in the book is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Topics include:

• Waste Reduction
• Energy Efficiency
• Biodiversity Conservation

Download the Destination Canada's Sustainability Storybook HERE.

Destination Greater Victoria Unveils 10-Year

Master Plan for Region's Visitor Economy

Earlier this week, Destination Greater Victoria (DGV) unveiled its 2025-2035 Destination Master Plan, which outlines the vision, goals, and actions for the sustainable development of the visitor economy in the region over the next 10 years.

The development of the plan included more than a year of extensive engagement with the tourism community, DGV members, First Nations, business organizations, municipal governments, regional organizations, provincial ministries, federal departments, transportation providers, community organizations, and the public.

The Destination Master Plan identifies strategic goals and initiatives related to tourism infrastructure, attractions and experiences, stewardship and placemaking, connectivity and mobility, and sustainability and innovation. In addition, it provides analysis of Greater Victoria’s hotel sector and future conference centre options.

Read the official announcement from DGV HERE, and down load the Master Plan in the link below.

Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC Release

2023-2024 Annual Report

The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC has released its annual report, highlighting the scope of programs and services that benefit recreational fisheries, including the delivery of the provincial stocking program.

The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC was formed as a non-profit organization on March 26, 2003. Working in partnership with government, industry, and anglers, their goal is to make fishing in British Columbia even better through the enhancement and conservation of BC's freshwater fish resources.

Read the full report HERE.

Culinary Tourism Alliance Announces Taste of Place Leadership Program

Taste of Place Leadership is a new online program from the Culinary Tourism Alliance, designed specifically for destination professionals who want to support the growth of culinary and agri-tourism in their communities.

Participants will progress through the program through a combination of self-paced online learning modules, expert-led discussions, and interactive virtual workshops with other destination professionals in their cohort. The program will begin in Spring 2025. The expected time commitment for this program is approximately 14 hours over the course of 3 months. 

Learn more about this new program HERE.

Cowichan Spark Program

Do you have a new tourism idea for the Cowichan Region? The "Spark" Program will match selected applicants with a mentor and provide seed funds to help bring their new tourism ideas to life.

The goal is to inspire Cowichan entrepreneurs, small businesses, non-profits, and community groups to come forward with creative ideas that will spark new tourism offerings, experiences and collaborations in the Cowichan Region.

The program includes:

• Call out for new tourism ideas from individuals, small businesses, non-profits and community groups
• Application reviews by a jury including local, regional and provincial tourism leaders and innovators
• Finalists' Pitch Session (a friendly take on a tourism Dragon's Den):  
• Selection of 3 winning applicants

Learn more about the Spark Program for Cowichan and apply HERE.

Input Needed | Metro Vancouver Solid Waste Management Survey

Metro Vancouver is updating its solid waste management plan to enhance waste reduction, recycling, and greenhouse gas reduction, supporting a zero-waste and circular economy. 

As part of this effort, they are gathering feedback from businesses, communities, and residents—including tourism & hospitality professionals. This is a key chance to ensure our industry’s views on waste management and environmental impact are heard. 

Please take a few minutes to complete the survey to share your thoughts on waste reduction strategies and priorities. Your input will help shape the future of waste management in the Metro Vancouver region. Thank you for your participation! Take the survey HERE.

Opportunity | Coordinator, Market Development

Europe, USA & Cruise

Working closely with key accounts in the Europe, USA & Cruise market, this program area fosters relationships and provides education on British Columbia’s tourism products to tour operators who are directly selling and influencing consumers.

Reporting directly to the Manager, Market Development, Europe, USA & Cruise, the Coordinator, Market Development, Europe, USA & Cruise coordinates and supports all cooperative marketing, trade education, familiarization tours/press trips and other marketing initiatives for the unit to advance the Super, Natural Brand in the Europe, USA & Cruise markets. Application deadline is November 20 by 4pm (PST).

Learn more about this position HERE.

Forty Under 40 Recipient | Ben Liegey

We are excited to share, TIABC member Ben Liegey, CEO of BetterTable™ has been honoured with the Business in Vancouver’s (BIV) Forty Under 40 Award. This award recognizes 40 outstanding business leaders in BC, under 40 years old.

As noted by Ben, "this achievement wouldn't have been possible without you (yes, you reading this right now, it shows you care about making the world a better place), the incredible clients we had at BetterTable™ and the community around us."

TIABC's Board and staff join the BetterTable™ team in congratulating Ben on this outstanding recognition.

Learn more about the BIV Forty Under 40 recipients HERE.

District of Sooke

Sooke is a vibrant, dynamic and welcoming community, and fortunate to be located close to nature.

The town's motto of “Where the Rainforest Meets the Sea” speaks to the environmental riches of the area. The District of Sooke is responsible for the marketing and promotion of the community and area.

Learn more about the District of Sooke 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.

Join Us! | 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference

We’re excited to share that a program overview, registration rates, and hotel room booking details for the 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference are now available to view on the conference website (https://bctourismconference.ca/) While detailed timing will be released later this fall, we're pleased to announce that the program will return to a Wednesday-to-Friday format. Stay tuned for updates on keynote speakers, engaging sessions, networking opportunities, and more. 

Visit the conference website for details on travel, accommodation and conference sponsorship opportunities. More information, including registration and program highlights, will be available in the weeks ahead. We look forward to seeing you in Vancouver next year!

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.

Get Ready for the 2024

Grey Cup Festival

The 2024 Grey Cup Festival kicks off this Sunday, November 10th, featuring a wide range of free activities and events from parties, concerts, ziplines, and interactive activations at the outdoor Save-On-Foods Street Festival to the immersive fan zones in the Vancouver Convention Centre East building. 

The outdoor Save-On-Foods Street Festival will take over Canada Place Way between Howe Street and Thurlow Street and runs from November 13 to 16.

The final game of the 110th Grey Cup will kick off at 3PM on Sunday, November 17 at BC Place. Learn more about all the activities taking place during the Festival including how to purchase tickets 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!

Webinar | BC Employer Guide - Updates on Foreign Worker & Immigration Changes

Guidance for BC employers in understanding and adapting to recent changes to temporary foreign worker programs, student work permits, and immigration pathways.

Presented by go2HR, the Health, Safety and Human Resources Association for BC's tourism and hospitality industry.

Date: November 12

Time: 12:30 pm (PST)

Learn more and register HERE.

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, 2024

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.

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. Dive into the joy of Holiday Splash starting November 12.

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

Food Synergy at The Cinematheque

Celebrate the launch of the first-of-its-kind feature documentary highlighting food heroes in BC and across the world fighting food loss and waste. Enjoy culinary delights of upcycled treats brought to you by the JW Marriott’s very own Chef Kunal Dighe in a night of visual and gastronomic culinary delights.

Date: November 12 @ 6:30 pm

Location: The Cinematheque

Price: $18 (including some food from Chef Kunal)

This in-person event promises to be a feast for the senses, celebrating the love of food in a cinematic setting, with analysis and discussion of food waste reduction practices from farm to table. Don't miss out on this exclusive event!

Learn more and purchase your ticket 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.

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 | 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!