Province Encourages British Columbia to Prepare for Seasonal Hazards

The provincial government has advised that people in British Columbia are urged to prepare for seasonal hazards as the warming weather increases the likelihood of climate-related emergencies, including spring flooding, wildfires and drought.

As noted in this week's news release by government, warming weather in the coming weeks will cause snowpack to melt, leading to increased spring runoff. When paired with heavy or extended rainfall, this can heighten the risk of flooding in rivers, streams and lakes.

Here is a reminder of the valuable resources available:

• To learn more about how to prepare for emergencies, including information about emergency kits, household emergency plans and hazard-specific guides, visit HERE.
• For information on evacuation alerts and orders, visit HERE.
• To learn about flood conditions and advisories, visit HERE.
• To learn about how to prepare for wildfires, visit HERE.
• To learn more about open burning safety, visit HERE.
• To register with Emergency Support Services, visit HERE.

Also visit Destination BC's Emergency Preparedness site that provides a wealth of emergency resources for the tourism industry, including communication tools, messaging guidance, and responsible travel graphics (see link below).

Government of Canada Assistance for Trade and Tariff Impacts

To help business owners navigate growing trade and tariff challenges, the Government of Canada has announced help to mitigate impacts and strengthen Canadian businesses. This includes:

• $500 million in new financing and advisory services through the Business Development Bank of Canada Pivot to grow loan
• $1 billion in new financing through Farm Credit Canada’s Trade Disruption Customer Support program for the agriculture and food industry
• $5 billion in additional funding over two years to support eligible Canadian exporters under Export Development Canada’s Trade Impact Program

Learn more HERE.

TIAC Election Outreach Campaign

Our national counterparts at TIAC are sharing their recently developed election outreach campaign which includes an electronic letter writing initiative to help make tourism a priority for all parties.

You are invited to amplify collective voices by using this simple and convenient tool to engage directly with candidates in your riding. Together, we can address the challenges facing our industry and influence government priorities and support for our sector.

Tourism AI Network Meet with Industry Leaders at BC Tourism Industry Conference

As part of the BC Tourism Industry Conference, Tourism AI Network Founder Peter Pilarski was a guest speaker and also interviewed several delegates to explore how tourism professionals across the province are embracing emerging technologies, deepening community ties, and strengthening the visitor economy in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

During his time at the conference, Peter had a series of in-depth conversations with industry leaders that included resort owners, nonprofit directors, destination marketers, educators, and AI advocates, all with a shared passion for elevating British Columbia’s tourism offerings.

Read Peter's latest blog "Embracing Innovation and Collaboration" in the link below. Highlights include interviews with TIABC CEO Walt Judas and TIABC members Erin Krivsky, (Okanagan College), Barbara Scott, (Sicamous Houseboats), Lisa White, (Tourism Kamloops), Gerardo Corro, (Tourism New Westminster), and Chatman Shaw, (Indigenous Tourism BC).

YVR Voted Best Airport in North America

Congratulations to Vancouver International Airport (YVR) who has once again been voted Best Airport in North America in the 2025 Skytrax World Airport Awards. YVR also ranked 13th in the world’s top 20 airports, an increase of four spots from 2024.

The Skytrax World Airport Awards are widely recognized as the global benchmark for airport excellence, based entirely on passenger feedback through the world’s largest independent customer satisfaction survey. The survey evaluates traveller experiences across different service and product key performance indicators – from check-in, arrivals, transportation, shopping, security and immigration through to departure at the gate. YVR is the only airport to be named Best Airport in North America 14 times in 16 years.  

Read the full announcement HERE.

Earth Day 2025

Earth Day has led the world in educating and mobilizing the public to take action to address critically important environmental issues and is celebrated as a global reminder of our shared responsibility to protect the planet.

Tuesday, April 22nd will mark the 55th anniversary of Earth Day, and everyone is invited to support Earth Day’s 2025 theme: OUR POWER, OUR PLANET™, calling on people to unite around renewable energy.

You are encouraged to join in for Earth Day by educating and advocating. Learn more, including how to register your event HERE.

Vancouver Unveils Official FIFA World Cup 26™Host City Poster

Earlier this week, Vancouver revealed its official FIFA World Cup 26™ Host City Poster, designed by BC artist Jamin Zuroski. Inspired by the region’s natural elements and Indigenous culture, the poster captures Vancouver’s connection to nature and the spirit of the beautiful game.

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This is the first time a FIFA World Cup™ has introduced official host city-specific posters. The FIFA World Cup 26™ Vancouver Host Committee celebrated by revealing a large, semi-permanent decal of the poster at BC Place Vancouver, on a window facing Terry Fox Plaza.  

All posters will be available for purchase beginning April 19th, with pre-orders available on FIFA’s registration page.  

Read the full announcement HERE.

Tourism Prince George Seeking Northern BC Artists to Design Mural for Container Market

Tourism Prince George is inviting Northern BC artists to submit expressions of interest for a vibrant new mural at Canada Games Plaza. This creative opportunity is open to all artistic disciplines, with a project budget of up to $17,000.

The mural will be featured on one of five shipping containers at a container market set to open next month. This new initiative, is designed to foster cultural connections for visitors and residents alike. The market aims to be a welcoming gateway to the heart and spirit of Prince George. Tourism Prince George hopes the new community hub will connect locals and visitors through art, culture and shared experiences.

Learn more, including how to submit the Expression of Interest HERE.

Job Opportunity | Director of Marketing

Tourism Richmond is seeking a "trailblazer marketer" to fill the role of Director of Marketing. Reporting directly to the CEO, this role is built for a candidate who is equal parts strategist, storyteller, and data whisperer.

As the Director, Marketing, you will be responsible for these key functions:

• Department & Team Management
• Marketing Strategy Leadership
• External Relations Management
• Internal Relations Management

Learn more about this position, please HERE. Applications will be accepted until noon PST Friday, May 2, 2025.

Just launched! - Postcards from BC: Season Two! We hope you will enjoy this season as we highlight TIABC members out exploring and enjoying everything British Columbia has to offer. Now more than ever, it's time to celebrate the beauty, energy, and unforgettable experiences found right here at home.

Would you like to be part of our weekly Postcards from BC feature? Send a photo of you enjoying a BC destination to deborah@tiabc.ca.

Meet in Penticton Study Reveals $98.3 Million Economic Impact of

MICE Industry In 2024

A recently released report by Meet In Penticton, a division of Travel Penticton, spotlights that 485 meetings, conferences, exhibitions and events contributed $98.3 million to the city's economy last year. The study was done in collaboration with the city's two largest conference venues -- the Penticton Trade & Convention Centre and Lakeside Resort.

This impact stemmed from direct and indirect spending related to MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) events. The MICE sector also provides numerous job opportunities, boosts local supply chains, and generates increased tax revenue for the destination. 

Also captured in the report is the economic impact of $26.4 million in direct organizer spending.

Thompson Okanagan Summer Tourism Outlook Positive

In a recent interview with Black Press, Sandra Oldfield, Chair of the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association and TIABC Director stated that despite the current global economic chaos, the outlook for the 2025 tourism season in the Okanagan remains positive.

She said spring and summer bookings across the industry are already up from last year. and the tourism season will be strong as Americans will continue to travel to the region and Canadians will choose to stay closer to home.

She also commented that "communication and shared marketing opportunities among tourism operators remain critical, given the industry's ability to pivot and be flexible in the face of changing economic situations, national and international political situations or a pandemic."

Read the full interview HERE.

Wilderness Tourism Association | Bid for BC's Wildest Spaces

The Wilderness Tourism Association (WTA)’s online auction is now open and every bid helps protect the ecosystems, keystone species, and communities that define British Columbia's tourism landscape.

Here’s how it works:

• Explore exclusive experiences donated by BC’s leading wilderness tourism operators.
• Place your bid.
• Win and score a once-in-a-lifetime trip and contribute to the future of sustainable tourism in BC.

From guided backcountry expeditions and remote lodge stays to marine wildlife tours and cultural journeys, this is your chance to support the stewardship of BC’s ecosystems through responsible adventure.

️ Bidding closes Wednesday, May 14, at midnight PST. Learn more and bid HERE.

The Sport Fishing Institute of BC Present Big Spring Raffle 2025

The Sport Fishing Institute of BC (SFI) has launched its annual Big Spring Raffle. Tickets are now on sale. By supporting the SFI, you are also supporting the protection and promotion of the traditions, lifestyle, and employment of many British Columbians.

• Early Bird Prizes drawn on May 30th
• Grand and Final Prizes are drawn on July 11th at 12:00 pm!
• Ticket purchase deadline—July 10th or while they last!

The SFI represents the voice of the angling community particularly in coastal BC, constantly reminding DFO that sustainable and predictable angling opportunity is important to individuals, businesses, families and communities across the province. Your support through the 2025 lottery will help secure a better future for our fishery and the resources it depends upon. Learn more about the exciting prizes, and purchase your tickets HERE.

Unlock the Secrets to Effective Workplace Communication

Did you know employees spend up to 17 hours a week resolving misunderstandings from miscommunication? In the fast-paced tourism & hospitality industry, that’s valuable time that could be spent creating positive guest experiences. 

go2HR invites you to join Beata Chami, an organizational psychologist and certified coach, for their "Engage & Inspire: Strategies to Elevate Workplace Communication" webinar.

Date: Wednesday, April 23

Time: 10:00 am - 11:00 am (PST)

Designed for managers and supervisors, this session will help you elevate your communication skills and improve your workplace interactions. Don’t miss out! Secure your spot today and enhance your communication skills to confidently navigate conversations across your organization. 

Register for this free webinar HERE.

CONFERENCES & SPECIAL EVENTS

Abbotsford Tulip Festival

Lakeland Flowers returns with a three-month cascade of flowers, beginning with the Abbotsford Tulip Festival. Positioned as Canada’s premiere tulip festival with 35 acres of tulips and lupins, the fields are set to create another remarkable display of colour.

Dates: Until May 11

For more information about the event, visit HERE.

Tourism Chilliwack | Dine Chilliwack

Tourism Ch’illiwack is springing forward and hosting a Dine Chilliwack promotion offering two-for-one deals, prix-fixe menus and more at local restaurants, wine bars, breweries and attractions from April 11 to 27 exclusively, where forks are optional and stretchy pants are highly recommended! 

The two-week celebration gives locals and visitors alike a chance to explore Chilliwack’s vibrant culinary community and support local businesses while sampling the many flavours and unique fare that can be found throughout the region.

Learn more about Dine Chilliwack and participating establishments HERE.

BCHA 2025 Summit

Shaping Tomorrow: Leading and Growing Together

This year's BC Hotel Association (BCHA) Summit centers around the theme, Shaping Tomorrow: Leading and Growing Together—a call to embrace new opportunities and realize untapped potential. 

Dates: April 22-23

Location: The Westin Bayshore, Vancouver

With a bustling Marketplace, endless networking opportunities, and a dynamic program in store, now is the time to secure your spot. Don’t wait—register today and be part of a collaborative, captivating, and cutting-edge Summit.

Learn more and register HERE.

2025 Pig Out Festival

For those who are already dreaming of spring, this much-loved food and wine event is returning to the heart of Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country set against the stunning vineyard backdrop of Cellar Door and More. 

Date: May 3

Location: Cellar Door Winery (and more)

The 2025 theme, “When Pigs Fly,” takes the festivities to new heights by incorporating creative poultry-inspired dishes, crafted by talented local and guest chefs. 

Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

BC Hospitality Foundation | Hospitality With Heart

The BC Hospitality Foundation is excited to announce Hospitality with Heart a week-long campaign uniting British Columbia’s hospitality and tourism industries in support of the BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF).

Dates: From June 1-8

Please join in giving back to an industry that continually supports its people.

Learn more HERE.

BC Aviation Council | BCAC Conference

"Innovation - All Eyes on the Horizon"

The BC Aviation Council will be holding their annual conference in Kamloops (YKA).

Date: June 2-4

Location: Delta Hotels, Mariott

Note: TIABC members are eligible to register at the BCAC member rate.

Learn more and register HERE.

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

Location: Vancouver Island Conference Centre, Nanaimo

Connect with Chamber of Commerce and Board of Trade executives, business leaders and association stakeholders from across the province who play a key role in shaping policy, fostering networking opportunities

and driving economic growth throughout British Columbia.

Early bird rates end March 31st! Learn more about the AGM and Conference and register HERE!

BC Trails Day 2025

BC Trails Day is returning, marking the 5th annual celebration of British Columbia’s exceptional trail networks. This province-wide event promotes environmental stewardship, responsible recreation, and equitable access to outdoor spaces.

Date: June 7

If you are already organizing an event, be sure to REGISTER to ensure additional promotional support and access to upcoming resources, contests, and important updates.

Learn more about BC Trails Day, access the Event Host Guide and how you can participate HERE.

BC Hospitality Foundation | Tee Up for Two Unforgettable Golf Events

Join the BC Hospitality Foundation for two premier golf events this summer—each offering an incredible day of competition, camaraderie, and hospitality at its finest. Whether you're in Vancouver or Victoria, these tournaments promise an unmatched experience on the greens. i

Mark Your Calendars:

• July 17| 15th Annual Vancouver Golf Tournament | Tsawwassen Springs
• August 20| 9th Annual Victoria Golf Tournament | Olympic View Golf Club

Visit HERE to learn more and to book!

Wine Capital Weekend Returns to Oliver!

The Oliver Tourism Association is thrilled to announce that Wine Capital Weekend will return for another unforgettable celebration. As the Wine Capital of Canada, Oliver welcomes locals and visitors alike to experience three days of wine, craft beverages, food, live music, team competitions, and family-friendly fun.

Dates: September 19 - 21

The weekend will once again feature:

• Kick-Off Party at District Wine Village – This year’s musical act will be GLASS TIGER
• Cask & Keg Festival – A celebration of craft beer, cider, and spirits featuring delicious eats, live entertainment, yard games, a family zone, and the crowd-favourite Beer Olympics.
• Festival of the Grape – The South Okanagan’s premier wine tasting event returns for its 26th year.

Learn more, including how to participate HERE.

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. 

Stay tuned for more details, including registration and speaker updates.

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, 2026

Location: Delta Hotel, Grand Okanagan Resort, Kelowna

Mark your calendar - we can't wait to see you there and celebrate our incredible industry together!

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, 2026

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.