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In Recognition of National Truth & Reconciliation Day
September 30th is National Truth & Reconciliation Day and also Orange Shirt Day in B.C. To mark this important date, TIABC is dedicating this edition of our weekly newsletter to honour the children who never returned home and the First Nation, Métis, and Inuit survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities. TIABC understands that public commemoration of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital component of the reconciliation process.
Tourism businesses and organizations can advance reconciliation by promoting understanding, respect, and meaningful engagement with Indigenous cultures by collaborating with Indigenous communities to accurately represent their history, traditions, and cultures in tourism experiences, supporting Indigenous-owned businesses and promoting employment opportunities, educating visitors and staff about the history and current issues facing Indigenous peoples, establishing a long-term partnership with communities, and highlighting and promoting Indigenous-led experiences.
September 30th also coincides with Orange Shirt Day and goes far beyond simply wearing orange in solidarity - it is an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day intended to raise awareness of the individual, family and community inter-generational impacts of residential schools, and to promote the concept of “Every Child Matters”.
Last year, TIABC Director Mike Retasket presented information about Orange Shirt Day. Today, he reflects on a new perspective in the following guest CEO message:
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Orange Shirt Day
The Orange Shirt Society was formed in Williams Lake, April 2013, to encourage and support communities, to recognize Orange Shirt Day, and to support reconciliation events and activities. Their goal is to create awareness of the individual, family and community inter-generational impacts of Indian Residential schools through Orange Shirt Day activities, and to promote the concept of “Every Child Matters.”
Every year on September 30th, we are encouraged to wear orange shirts to honour Indian Residential School survivors. Orange Shirt Day grew out of Phyllis Webstad’s story told for the first time in April 2013, of having the shiny, new orange shirt her grandmother bought for her, taken away on her first day of school at St. Joseph’s Mission Indian Residential School. It has become an opportunity to keep the discussion on all aspects of residential schools happening. Orange Shirt Day is also an opportunity for First Nations, local governments, schools and communities to come together in the spirit of truth and reconciliation and hope for generations of children to come.
The Orange Shirt has become a symbol of truth, hope, reconciliation and a commitment to a better future. By wearing an orange shirt on September 30th, you make a statement to support reconciliation and commit to the enduring truth that EVERY CHILD MATTERS.
Through Orange Shirt Day we can learn about Canada’s Indian Residential School System. Learn about treaties and historic and current relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. We can learn about what we can do to participate in events, like volunteering. All ages are welcome to free events which feature storytelling, drumming, orange shirt art, education and healing. Orange Shirt Day events are planned throughout all of Canada. Events like:
- Niagara Falls will be illuminated in orange to commemorate the missing and disappeared children who attended Indian Residential Schools.
- The third annual “Orange Jersey Project” hockey game took place at Sandman Centre in Kamloops.The Orange Jersey Project commemorates the Indian Residential School experience, witnessing and honouring the healing journey of the Survivors and their families through sports. For more information or to register your team go to https://orangejerseyproject.ca.
- Every Child Matters crosswalks amplify public engagement and promote awareness surrounding Indian Residential Schools by establishing spaces dedicated to honouring survivors and commemorating the thousands of children who never returned home.
- Quilts for Survivors, a heartfelt gift for survivors to reaffirm that they matter. A symbol of support, respect and love.
- The CN Tower, in collaboration with the Orange Shirt Society, is proud to announce that on September 30th, the Tower will be illuminated in orange to mark Orange Shirt Day. This lighting stands as a powerful symbol; of remembrance and commitment to the path of Truth and Reconciliation.
- On Monday, April 13, 2026, Orange Shirt Society will proudly honour a historic step in education and reconciliation with a graduation ceremony at BC Place Stadium. Bringing together the class of 2026 in a powerful gathering of unity, inclusion, and Truth and Reconciliation, the celebration will honour B.C.’s first class to complete K-12 education with Indian Residential School history fully integrated into their curriculum.
I raise a couple of points here in our healing journey. Students who completed their schooling at Indian residential schools are not referred to as graduates, they are survivors. Terms like gravesites at residential schools point to a flawed system. Reconciliation will not be reconciliation if the people who were harmed are doing most of the work. We all have a lot of work to do.
These Orange Shirt Day support tourism events have a direct link to tourism. People travel to events and need accommodations, and food. Safe travels to those attending Orange Shirt Day events.
For more information visit https://orangeshirtday.org
Mike Retasket
TIABC Director
| | Stay updated on the latest news and developments by checking out this week's compilation of important matters impacting and influencing our industry. | | | |
Learn more about National Truth and Reconciliation
and Get Involved
This National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, TIABC encourages everyone to wear orange on September 30th and honour the thousands of survivors of residential schools.
We have compiled a list of meaningful ways to deepen your understanding and participation including how to look for an event in your area. By taking these steps, we can all contribute to understanding, healing, and a more equitable relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
Additional Resources on Ways to Participate and Get Involved:
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Look for an event in your area: through the Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) listings and step forward as an active witness to ensure, through thorough and honest education, that this never happens again.
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Find out whose land you’re on: The relationship between Indigenous peoples and land is sacred and unbreakable. Native Land has developed this interactive map that shows all of the indigenous communities across Canada and other countries.
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Educate yourself: Read the 94 Calls to Action and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
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Donate: to residential school survivors and invest in Indigenous economies. Donations to organizations like the Orange Shirt Society or Indian Residential School Survivors Society contributes to public awareness and programs that attend to Indigenous wellbeing. Also consider purchasing Indigenous art, eating at Indigenous restaurants, taking a tour with Indigenous guides, staying at Indigenous accommodations - Invest in Indigenous.
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TIABC Participates in TIAC's One Hill of a Party
Earlier this week, TIABC Director of Policy, Cassandra Zerebeski was in Ottawa to participate in a gathering of elected officials at TIAC's One Hill of a Party, celebrating the people and businesses driving Canadian tourism forward. The event brought together members of our industry, MPs, and decision makers to celebrate the people and businesses that power our industry and communities from coast-to-coast-to-coast. She also had the opportunity to watch Question Period and tour the Senate with Karen Sorenson, co-chair of the Parliamentary Tourism Caucus.
A special thank you to our partners that joined TIABC in representing B.C.'s tourism sector; Pacific Whale Watching Association, Rocky Mountaineer, and Wine Growers BC.
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World Tourism Day 2025
World Tourism Day has been celebrated annually on September 27th since 1980. The recognition was designated by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) to create "awareness of tourism’s social, cultural, political, and economic value and the contribution that the sector can make towards reaching the Sustainable Development Goals."
World Tourism Day 2025, under the theme "Tourism and Sustainable Transformation", highlights tourism’s transformative potential as an agent of positive change.
Key points to consider for a more sustainable world are:
- Effective governance and people-centric planning
- Innovation and responsible entrepreneurship
- Prioritize sustainable investments
Learn more about World Tourism Day and access informative resources HERE.
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SOS and Municipalities Urge Province to Act Now on Issues Related to Public Disorder
Mayors and councillors from small and large communities across the province joined Save Our Streets (SOS) on the steps of the BC legislature on Wednesday to call on Premier David Eby’s provincial government to address the widespread public disorder that has gotten dramatically worse in recent years.
The event was an opportunity for BC mayors and councillors to bring their concerns in person to the steps of the legislature and the provincial government which is being urged to take bold action to achieve the transformational change needed to address crime, violence, vandalism, addictions and mental illnesses.
The municipal officials are gathered in Victoria for the Union of BC Municipalities annual convention, where issues related to public disorder are taking centre stage in the 2025 program. This year, 14 UBCM convention resolutions are focused directly on public safety issues such as homelessness, poverty reduction, repeat offenders, addiction and mental illnesses.
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Province Extends Vintage Replacement Support to Help BC Wine Industry Recover from 2024 Freeze
Wine Growers British Columbia (WGBC) has announced that the Government of British Columbia is extending support for local wineries still recovering from the catastrophic polar vortex of January 2024, which caused widespread damage to vineyards. Continuing this support for one more year will help wineries maintain operations and keep skilled workers employed while newly replanted vines mature.
Temporary vintage replacement supports will be extended through the 2025 production year, and allows eligible wineries to craft wines in BC with grapes or juice from outside the province, complementing the 100% BC wines of 2025 and sustaining consumer supply into 2026.
Read the full announcement from WGBC HERE.
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UPDATES FROM THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT
Minister’s Statement on Heritage Conservation Act Engagement Process
The following is an excerpt from Honourable Ravi Parmar, Minister of Forests, who provided a statement earlier this week about extending the engagement process for modernizing the Heritage Conservation Act in B.C.:
“We have formally been engaging to help find solutions and ways to update the Heritage Conservation Act, to make permitting faster and easier, help people and communities rebuild quicker after disasters, protect heritage sites more effectively and strengthen the role of First Nations in decision-making about their own heritage and ancestors...
...“The status quo is not an option. We invite more people in BC the opportunity to come to the table. That is why I am announcing today that we are extending the engagement to mid-November to ensure all people in BC, including local governments, have their voices heard.
“...As we continue to engage, I want to be clear that there have been no decisions made to date. We want to hear from people affected so we can ensure the legislation we will draft will meet the needs of people in B.C. in the best way.
The opportunity still remains for anyone in BC to provide written feedback online HERE.
The current engagement process will remain open until November 14th.
Read the full statement from Minister Parmar HERE.
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Updates Regarding the Pay Transparency Reporting Requirements
The Pay Transparency Act became law in 2023, and employers above a certain size must post pay transparency reports annually. In 2025, employers with 300 or more employees are required to publicly post pay transparency reports.
Key Dates & Information:
- Employers must publicly post pay transparency reports by November 1 each year
- 2025: Applies to employers with 300+ employees (total B.C. employee count as of Jan 1, 2025)
- 2026: Expands to 50+ employees (as of Jan 1, 2026)
Resources:
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Help Pitch BC’s Tourism Sector to the World!
The first phase of the Beautiful Seats campaign, launched in May 2025 and reached millions across digital video, TV, social media, and media partnerships.
While thousands of fans will compete for a seat at BC Place during the World Cup - not all will get tickets. However, with your content, Destination BC can extend its Beautiful Seats campaign, to show the world that British Columbia offers another kind of seat, a beautiful seat, with a breathtaking view of our province.
Your content could be featured in international campaigns, print, platforms, and events.
Learn more including how to share your Beautiful Seat photos or videos by November 30th in the link below. It’s a simple, free and powerful way to put your destination in front of a global audience.
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Colourful Trio of Mascots Unveiled for
FIFA World Cup 26™
In the ongoing build up to FIFA World Cup 26, FIFA has unveiled the three Official FIFA World Cup 26™ Mascots, each highlighting one of the host nations of the world’s greatest sporting event. The mascots have been thoughtfully developed to reflect the vibrant culture, heritage and spirit of their respective countries, coming together to symbolise unity, diversity and the shared passion for the game.
Introducing Canada's Maple the Moose, Mexico's Zayu the Jaguar, and the United States' Clutch the Bald Eagle who will represent host countries Canada, Mexico and USA.
Learn more HERE.
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Kootenay Rockies Tourism Announces New CEO
The Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association has announced the appointment of Brad Parsell as Chief Executive Officer, effective December 1, 2025. Brad will succeed Kathy Cooper, who is retiring after 14 years of service as CEO.
Brad previously served as General Manager of the Fernie Lodging Company and later as Executive Director of the Fernie Chamber of Commerce, where he championed initiatives such as the Work in Fernie workforce attraction program, the creation of a downtown co-working space and the development of Fernie’s Tourism Master Plan. In 2022, Brad became Executive Director of Tourism Tofino.
TIABC's Board of Directors extends our congratulations to Brad and looks forward to working with him in his new role.
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YOU’RE INVITED - TIABC Roundtable Series
Connecting with Members and Tourism Collaborators
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Please register for the 4VI and Wilderness Tourism Association Sustainability session HERE.
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Please RSVP for any TOTA sessions via: Judie@totabc.com
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Please Join Us! | 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference
Planning for the 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference has already begun, and you're encouraged to Save the Date for this must-attend conference. BC TIC will be held at the Delta Hotel, Grand Okanagan Resort in Kelowna, March 4–6, 2026.
Stay tuned for updates on registration, conference schedule, travel & accommodation, sponsor opportunities, and programming. More information will be shared on our conference website at bctourismconference.ca shortly.
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Sponsorship Opportunities NOW AVAILABLE!
Our sponsors are critical to what makes the BC Tourism Industry Conference a consistent success. Aside from helping to offset the costs of staging this event, sponsors deliver benefits to delegates that help grow their businesses, as well as BC’s visitor economy as a whole.
If your company is keen to connect with tourism leaders and stakeholders throughout British Columbia and Canada, we encourage you to partner with us for the 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference.
Contact us at sponsorship@bctourismconference.ca and learn more about the sponsorship opportunities in the link below.
We look forward to seeing you in Kelowna next year!
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ICYMI - EPISODE #41 - Heather MacDonald
Meet Heather MacDonald, Chief Integrative Officer of Gibbons Whistler as she joins TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas for an engaging conversation on leadership, workforce challenges, and the resort community’s future.
Heather shares her journey from Perth, Australia to Whistler, starting as a server at Black’s Pub and working her way through finance and operations to help lead one of Whistler’s most dynamic tourism companies. She reflects on her experiences during the 2010 Winter Olympics, the growth of Gibbons into food and beverage, accommodation, recreation, and events, and the company’s mission to create joy for guests, staff, and the community.
Heather also discusses pressing issues like housing, workforce recruitment, immigration policy, and sustainability, while offering her perspective on Whistler’s growth and potential to once again host the Olympics.
| AN AI MOMENT WITH PETER PILARSKI | |
AI Shouldn't Just Serve the Big Players
Small businesses are the heartbeat of tourism, and they deserve more than a seat at the AI table. In this week's AI Snippet, I respond to the new McKinsey x Skift report on agentic AI and its future in travel.
Here’s the core message:
AI isn’t just about optimizing operations for large corporations. It’s a chance to empower local operators, enhance authentic experiences, and make sure everyone in our industry thrives, not just the few with the biggest budgets.
The AI revolution is here. Let’s ensure SMEs are at the center of it.
Read more in the link below.
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Cranbrook Tourism Rebrands as Visit Cranbrook
After years of sharing Cranbrook’s natural beauty, cultural treasures, and outdoor spirit with the world, Cranbrook Tourism is proud to step into a bold new era with the launch of its new name and identity: Visit Cranbrook.
At the heart of the new brand is a guiding belief: every trail, building, and bend in the road holds a tale. The new identity is inspired by the idea that Cranbrook’s true character isn’t always obvious at first glance. It's tucked into railcars, etched in fossils, echoed in mountain peaks, and carried in the hearts of its people.
To preview the brand and explore Cranbrook's stories, visit HERE.
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The Parkside Hotel & Eagle Wing Tours Partner with Ric O'Barry's Dolphin Project
TIABC members The Parkside Hotel & Spa and Eagle Wing Tours are partnering with Dolphin Project this October to host an exclusive fundraising weekend with world-renowned dolphin conservationist Richard "Ric" O'Barry, former trainer of television's beloved Flipper.
The three-day event will feature an intimate evening presentation at The Parkside Hotel, as well as two whale-watching excursions with Eagle Wing Tours. The event will take place from October 17-19 with all proceeds directly benefitting Dolphin Project, the non-profit organization O'Barry founded in 1970 to protect dolphins worldwide.
Learn more HERE.
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Birthplace of Adventure Spark Program
Destination BC’s Birthplace of Adventure “Spark” Program is designed to support innovative tourism initiatives in southeastern British Columbia through mentorship and grant funding.
Open to individuals, start-ups, established small businesses, and non-profit organizations, the program addresses the challenges of developing new tourism concepts, experiences, and partnerships. Selected participants will be matched with experienced tourism mentors and receive seed funding to advance their projects to the next stage of development or implementation.
Learn more and apply by October 30 HERE.
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2025 Spirit of Hospitality Lottery
The BC Hospitality Foundation is thrilled to launch its biggest fundraiser of the year: the 7th Annual Spirit of Hospitality Lottery, proudly presented by the Hotel Association of Vancouver and media sponsor CHEK News.
This is an all-Canadian lottery giving you the chance to win unforgettable experiences right here at home while supporting a cause that makes a real difference in the lives of BC’s hospitality and tourism workers who are facing financial crisis due to health challenges.
Learn more HERE and purchase tickets in the link below.
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SEA TO SKY GONDOLA
The Sea to Sky Gondola located along the world-famous Sea to Sky Highway/Highway 99, two kilometres south of Squamish.
The Sea to Sky Gondola is a privately owned recreational aerial tramway, offering views over Howe Sound along with cafes, a lodge, hiking trails, and a suspension bridge, the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge. The majority of the area is located inside of Stawamus Chief Provincial Park
Learn more about the Sea to Sky Gondola HERE.
Photo Credit: Sea to Sky Gondola
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Let's Work Together on What Matters Most
To bolster industry advocacy efforts, membership in the Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) is a good investment.
Becoming a member of TIABC offers many significant benefits that can enhance your business, elevate your voice on the issues that matter, and contribute to the success of BC’s visitor economy. As well, you will gain ease of access to a collaborative network of businesses, partners and allies that support the tourism industry, both nationally and provincially.
NEW! Associate Member Category
If you’re a tourism operator and already an active member of another sector association or DMO and cannot afford a full membership in TIABC, consider supporting us by becoming a TIABC Associate. For a nominal annual fee you’ll receive streamlined benefits and opportunities, including adding your voice to the conversation about the future of our sector.
Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information, visit our website HERE or the link below.
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Destination Dialogues 2025 | Rethinking Experience Development: From Ideation to Export Ready
Join Destination Canada for a free 90-minute session to explore how destinations, businesses, and community leaders can develop regenerative, Indigenous tourism experiences in rural, remote, and northern areas of Canada.
Date: October 8
Time: 9:00 am (PDT)
This session is tailored for tourism and destination development professionals in Canada. It will share best practices in rural experience development, leaving you informed, inspired and empowered to create regenerative travel experiences deeply rooted in your community.
This year's session theme will focus on Indigenous tourism in collaboration with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada.
Learn more and register HERE.
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Implementing Psychological Health & Safety in the Workplace
How do you tackle workplace stress, bullying, or burnout before they escalate? Join go2HR for a practical session on implementing Psychological Health & Safety in you workplace.
Date: October 9
Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am (PDT)
Learn how to identify common psychological hazards in the Tourism & Hospitality industry and create a culture where employees feel safe speaking up.
Learn more and register HERE.
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Malahat Skywalk Launches New Four Winds Event
A Celebration of Indigenous Culture and Art
The Malahat SkyWalk is collaborating with the Malahat Nation to host Four Winds, a two-day event created to honour and celebrate Indigenous culture and art. This is a unique gathering, where visitors are invited to listen, witness, and take part in meaningful moments shared by Indigenous artists, makers, and entrepreneurs from several Nations across South Vancouver Island.
Dates: September 27 & 28
For more information on the Four Winds event, free return Victoria shuttle service, and more, please visit HERE or contact them directly at 1.833.625.2428.
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Greater Victoria Harbour Authority AGM
Join the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) for their AGM. This year’s meeting is virtual. No need to RSVP. Everyone is welcome. Review the highlights from the 2024-2025 fiscal year and learn about GVHA’s plans for the harbour. If you can’t attend, a recording will be available on the GVHA website by October 3.
Date: September 29
Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m (Virtual)
If you have questions for our leadership team, please email them to the GVHA communications team in advance. Questions will also be accepted via chat during the meeting.
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4TVI | 2025 Vancouver Island Stewardship Summit
You are invited to the 4TVI Vancouver Island Stewardship Summit. The 2025 program will focus on the efforts of stewardship through destination management and collaboration. Speakers will provide tangible, inspiring presentations for attendees. The full day event will also include a State of the Region presentation.
Date: October 2-3
Location: Coast Bastion, Nanaimo
Registration is now open. Learn more and register HERE.
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Northern BC 2025 Tourism Summit
The Northern BC 2025 Tourism Summit, a must-attend event for anyone passionate about the development of a strong tourism sector in Northern British Columbia.
Ready to connect, learn, and lead the future of tourism? The Northern BC 2025 Tourism Summit is your opportunity to be part of the region’s most dynamic gathering of tourism professionals, entrepreneurs, and community changemakers.
Dates: October 15-17
Location: Courtyard by Marriott, Prince George
Learn more and register HERE.
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CCCTA Tourism Summit and AGM
Join the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association (CCCT) for an extraordinary event – the annual 2025 Tourism Summit & AGM.
Dates: October 17-19
Location: Quesnel
Join delegates from across the region and all areas of BC tourism to network, gain knowledge and support the tourism industry and economy. The event is designed to educate, provide network opportunities, influence new ideas and recognize our amazing industry leaders here in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast.
Learn more about the Summit and AGM HERE. Registration is now open HERE.
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Mark Your Calendar | TOTA AGM and Summit
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has announced the dates for the 2025 TOTA AGM & Summit.
Dates: October 22-23
Location: KF Centre for Excellence, Kelowna
Last year's Summit was a sold-out event that brought together tourism industry professionals from around the region for two days to network, engage in industry-specific workshops, and learn from experts.
Learn more and register HERE.
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GreenStep Offering Free Climate Action Workshops in Kelowna
Businesses in Kelowna are invited to join a 4-part virtual Climate Action Training series, delivered in collaboration with the City of Kelowna.
Cohort 2: Starts October 23rd.
Learn more and register HERE.
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Western Ideas Forum & AccomEx
Registration is now open for the inaugural Western Ideas Forum & AccomEx.
Dates: November 3-6
Location: St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino, Cranbrook
Come join campground, RV park, glamping, and outdoor hospitality operators from across Western Canada for three days of:
- Inspiring speakers and expert-led sessions
- Practical workshops tailored to your business
- Networking opportunities with industry leaders and peers
- An exhibitor showcase featuring products and services designed for your operation
Learn more and register HERE.
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Save the Date!
Boating BC 2025 Conference: Rocking The Industry – Navigating Disruptive Times
Presented by Mercury Marine, this is the must-attend event for marine professionals across the province — a dynamic two-day experience packed with industry insight, leadership, and valuable networking. We’re also excited to announce our first confirmed speaker: Vaughn Palmer of the Vancouver Sun, returning to share his always-popular perspectives.
Dates: November 18-19
Location: River Rock Casino Resort, Richmond
To learn more about the conference sponsorship opportunities, visit HERE.
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TIAC - 2025 Tourism Congress
Tourism is more than travel—it is a tool for unity across Canada. TourismCan celebrates the industry that unites the country through building economies, communities, careers, innovation, and policy. Tourism is the thread that ties Canada together.
Dates: November 18–20
Location: Hilton Lac-Leamy, Gatineau, Quebec
Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Engage with industry leaders and stakeholders from across the country
- Participate in critical discussions on the future of Canadian tourism
- Recognize and honour the strength, resilience, and ingenuity of Canada’s tourism sector
Learn more and register HERE.
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Annual SFI Big Splash Gala, Fundraiser and Policy Conference
During the day, make plans to attend the SFI Annual Industry Policy Conference, held at the Vancouver Convention Centre - West. This annual event is an unique opportunity for those in the sport fishing industry and community to meet, hear from, and exchange perspectives on the issues facing the public fishery with elected officials, public servants.
Date: Friday, November 21
Location: Vancouver Convention Centre – West
This year's theme is Balanced and Sustainable and ticket sales are now open! Early bird tickets are only available until October 31st!
Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.
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Sport Event Exchange BC 2025
Sport Exchange BC 2025 will be a one-day sport tourism industry forum bringing together BC's destination marketing organizations, municipalities, provincial sport organizations, multi-sport organizations, disability sport organizations, BC-based national sport organizations, sport event rights holders, and venue owners/operators. Designed to strengthen collaboration, build capacity, and spark new opportunities in sport event hosting, this initiative is a first-of-its-kind knowledge exchange and relationship-building event in the province.The event will feature engaging panel discussions, networking sessions, and opportunities to explore partnership models between sport organizations and tourism professionals.
Date: Friday, November 21
Time: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Location: Sheraton Vancouver Airport Hotel
The event will feature engaging panel discussions, networking sessions, and opportunities to explore partnership models between sport organizations and tourism professionals. Learn more and REGISTER HERE.
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IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism Summit - 2026
Registration is now open for 2026's iteration of the IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism Summit Victoria
Dates: January 25-28
Get ready to explore Aligned action, shared direction, and real progress alongside global changemakers. With a brand-new Workshop Series, immersive case studies, and hands-on tools to take home, IMPACT 2026 will equip you to transform your destination into one that's not just visited, but nurtured.
Learn more and secure your spot HERE.
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SAVE THE DATE | 2026 International Indigenous Tourism Conference
The 2026 International Indigenous Tourism Conference (#2026IITC), hosted in partnership with Indigenous Tourism Alberta and Explore Edmonton, will be held on unceded Treaty 6 Territory in Amiskwacîwâskahikan (Edmonton).
Dates: February 17-19
The many Nations that call the area home, including Cree, Saulteaux, Blackfoot, Sioux and Métis People, are excited to welcome you to their territory at this amazing celebration of Indigenous tourism. Save the date!
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SAVE THE DATE | 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference
It's hard to believe the 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference is behind us! While planning for 2026 won't begin until early fall, we're excited to announce the date and location:
Dates: March 4-6
Location: Delta Hotel, Grand Okanagan Resort, Kelowna
Mark your calendar - we can't wait to see you there and celebrate our incredible industry together!
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Save the Date | BC Outdoor Recreation Conference 2026
The Outdoor Recreation Council of BC is celebrating 50 years of advocacy in 2026, and we’re marking the occasion in a big way! Join us at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, BC, for this milestone event.
Dates: May 20-22
Location: Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops
This conference will bring together outdoor recreation leaders, advocates, and enthusiasts from across British Columbia to reflect on our past, celebrate our achievements, and shape the future of public recreation. Look forward to engaging speakers, insightful panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and valuable networking with recreationists, land managers, and decision-makers.
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TIABC recognizes that our members, stakeholders and staff occupy the ceded, unceded and traditional territories of Indigenous Nations across British Columbia. We sincerely appreciate the opportunity to live, work and play on the lands that our Indigenous friends and First Nations ancestors honour and care for.
#970 - 1050 West Pender Street | Vancouver, BC | V6E 3S7 | 604.685.5956
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