We hope you take the time to enjoy the Labour Day long weekend that is now upon us and enjoy these last few weeks of summer, experiencing many of the events and activities taking place in your community and around the province. Please note, our office will be closed on Monday, reopening on September 2nd. | | |
I’ve got to hand it to civic politicians who have the patience of Job to sit through discussions and/or voting on the 200+ resolutions put forward for the Province’s attention as part of the Union of BC Municipalities’ (UBCM) Convention next month in Victoria. Imagine having to debate moose habitat considerations in landscape planning, or a review of the BC Library Act. In all seriousness…most of the local issues that require action on the part of the provincial government are extremely important to as few as one or as many as all BC communities.
From my quick perusal of the resolutions list, only a few of the motions pertain directly to tourism. One resolution I took note of was on investment in recreational tourism submitted by the City of Nelson that states, “Whereas rural communities near the United States border are experiencing economic challenges due to declining tourism, which is a vital source of income for local businesses and job creation; And whereas these challenges are primarily caused by aging infrastructure, limited marketing support, and intense competition from well-funded US destinations, making it difficult for rural communities to attract and retain visitors:
Therefore be it resolved that UBCM urge the Province of British Columbia to address declining tourism due to aging infrastructure, limited marketing support, and better-funded US destinations, by increasing targeted investment in recreational tourism infrastructure, including parks, trails, ski resorts, indoor facilities, and outdoor adventure amenities, and by providing enhanced marketing support to promote these areas to potential visitors from the United States;
And be it further resolved that the Province work collaboratively with local governments, Indigenous communities, and tourism stakeholders to develop a sustainable, long-term strategy for tourism investment in border regions, ensuring economic growth while protecting natural and cultural resources.”
Contrary to what the motion suggests regarding declining tourism, I’ve been assured by my DMO colleagues that the city and the Kootenay Rockies region are having a strong summer tourism season, although actual numbers vis-a-vis occupancy, revenues, and other key indicators won’t be known until mid-fall. Regardless, the recommendations are strong and valid.
For the record, while UBCM’s Resolutions Committee has not previously considered the recommendations contained in item EB91, it notes that the membership has consistently endorsed resolutions in support of recreational tourism, as well as calling on the Province to provide funding and staff to support the continued and sustained operation of provincial parks, recreational sites, trails, and backcountry areas. It goes on to say that communities throughout BC may be experiencing a similar decline in recreational tourism, and that Nelson may wish to consider the support that non-border regions of the province could provide to this resolution, if the wording did not exclude them.
Hear hear. TIABC concurs with the committee’s sentiments and will continue to lobby the Province to increase its investment in tourism infrastructure, which has been a key priority of ours for some time.
Over the years I’ve attended many UBCM resolution sessions and found them to be informative, lively and essential, although admittedly I’ve zoned out when certain topics are debated that have nothing to do with tourism. I’m sure my experience at the upcoming convention will be similar. For that matter, not even Job would have the patience to sit through a debate on topics such as mailing illegal substances via Canada Post, or solid waste management approvals. Thankfully there are civic politicians that do.
Walt Judas,
CEO, TIABC
| | Stay updated on the latest news and developments by checking out this week's compilation of important matters impacting and influencing our industry. | | |
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Stay Prepared - Travel Safely This Labour Day
Long Weekend
As people in BC prepare to celebrate the Labour Day long weekend before students return to school, the Province want to remind everyone to plan ahead, stay safe and be prepared for seasonal risks.
Hot summer weather and dry conditions continue to keep much of the province at increased risk for wildfires. Open-burning prohibitions are still in place in the province, including campfire prohibitions in the Coastal, Cariboo and Kamloops fire centres.
People are also encouraged to prepare for hot weather by staying hydrated, taking breaks in cool areas and knowing where local cooling centres are located.
The last long weekend of the summer also brings increased travel throughout the province. Drivers should be prepared for heavier-than-usual traffic volumes and possible delays.
Reminder of the following resources available:
- For B.C. Wildfire Service information and updates, visit HERE.
- For more information about fire prohibitions, visit HERE.
- To check road conditions, visit DriveBC HERE.
- To access the Province’s PreparedBC extreme-heat preparedness guide, visit HERE.
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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.
We look forward to seeing you in Kelowna next year!
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Destination Canada Launch Tourism Sprint Program
We are excited to share the launch of Destination Canada's Tourism Sprint Program (TSP). This competitive, application-based, cost-sharing initiative funds short-term projects focused on creating innovative tourism products and supporting new tourism investments.
The program aims to quickly address barriers to investment by providing targeted funding over a limited project timeline, unlocking broader tourism opportunities and enhancing Canada’s competitive position in the global marketplace.
Please note: The Expression of Interest (EOI) deadline is September 12th at 5:00 PM PST.
You are encouraged to learn more about the TSP program and how to apply HERE.
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Reducing Noise Together: YVR’s 2025–2029 Noise Management Plan
Over the past few decades, the aviation industry has made significant strides in developing quieter aircraft, but modern aircraft alone aren't enough to address community noise exposure as urban areas grow around the airport.
As part of YVR's ground lease with the federal government, Vancouver Airport Authority is responsible for managing aircraft noise within 10 nautical miles of the airport. Every five years, they publish a Noise Management Plan that outlines their strategies and commitments to minimizing noise impacts on the community while supporting the airport’s safe and efficient 24-hour operations.
The 2025–2029 Noise Management Plan is now live. The new Plan builds on decades of progress and input from the YVR Aeronautical Noise Management Committee (ANMC), Musqueam, government partners, industry stakeholders, and the public, including more than 400 responses to a community questionnaire in 2024.
It focuses on 12 core areas grouped under four main themes:
- Sharing information with our community
- Collaborating with partners
- Improving monitoring and reporting
- Strengthening procedures
- Land use planning
- Musqueam partnership
Learn more and access the full plan HERE.
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Now Live! | Community Activation Playbook
Want to make the most of the opportunities presented by FIFA World Cup 26™? Vancouver's Host Committee has released their Community Activation Playbook, with tips on activating, permitting and public viewing parties.
This is Version 1.0 - The FIFA World Cup 26™ Vancouver Host Committee will update this Community Activation Playbook to answer new questions from the community and to include new information and evolving requirements as they become available.
In this Playbook:
- Ideas for celebrating creatively with country flags, soccer themes, and community pride.
- Information on when a FIFA Public Viewing License is needed and how to obtain one.
- Rules on brand use, including a reminder that FIFA marks, logos, wordmarks, slogans, and other branding cannot be used without formal licensing or an official partnership.
- Guidance for Vancouver-based businesses on hosting events during FIFA World Cup 26™ and obtaining permits via the City of Vancouver.
Access the Community Activation Playbook through the following link:
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ICYMI |nDestination BC - Call for Applications
Tourism Marketing Committee | 2026-2028 Term
The call for applications is now open! Help shape the future of tourism in British Columbia by joining the Tourism Marketing Committee (TMC) and work with Destination BC to build a successful, dynamic, and sustainable tourism sector for BC.
Destination BC is seeking six representatives for three-year terms beginning January 1, 2026. The TMC requires one representative from each of the following tourism regions: Cariboo Chilcotin Coast, Kootenay Rockies, Northern BC, and Vancouver, Coast & Mountains. Destination BC is also seeking two representatives from the Vancouver Island tourism region. No new representatives are required for the Thompson Okanagan region in 2026.
Deadline to apply is October 17th. Learn more and APPLY HERE.
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BC Rivers Day 2025
BC Rivers Day returns for its 45th annual celebration on Sunday, September 28th, marking one of the province's largest community-driven environmental events.
The Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC) has organized this day to bring together citizens, organizations, and communities to honour and safeguard the health of BC's rivers and waterways. The event encourages stewardship, education and community action while highlighting the importance of BC's rivers.
For more details about BC Rivers Day, and how to be involved, VISIT HERE.
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Opportunity | Tourism Prince George
Executive Director
Tourism Prince George is seeking an experienced, visionary, and community-minded Executive Director (ED) to lead the organization forward. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the ED is responsible for advancing Tourism Prince George’s strategic goals and targets, growing revenues, enhancing awareness of the community, driving operational excellence, and delivering exceptional value to visitors, partners, and the region.
The ED will inspire, guide, and develop a dedicated team, cultivate strong relationships with stakeholders, and ensure Prince George is positioned as a premier tourism destination in British Columbia.
If you are an inspiring leader ready to champion Prince George’s tourism future, please submit your cover letter and resume by Friday, September 12th to: Diane Bourret, 3GreenLights Consulting.
Learn more about this exciting opportunity HERE.
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EPISODE #39 - Deneen Allen
Meet Deneen Allen, Founder and CEO of Firecircle and Pure North Canada as she joins TIABC’s Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas for an inspiring conversation on entrepreneurship, innovation, and tourism development.
Deneen shares her journey from boutique hospitality ventures in Ontario to building Canada’s first online tourism and hospitality development hub. She reflects on the challenges and opportunities she’s encountered working with rural operators, Indigenous communities, and entrepreneurs across the country, highlighting the importance of brand, operations, design, and financial management in building sustainable businesses.
Deneen also discusses the regulatory barriers facing agri-tourism, the need for greater investment in tourism infrastructure, and how Firecircle is helping to close knowledge gaps for the next generation of operators.
| AN AI MOMENT WITH PETER PILARSKI | |
Welcome back to our bi-monthly feature with Peter Pilarski, founder of the Tourism AI Network. Peter shares his expertise to demystify the AI landscape and provide essential understanding, helping us to simplify technology, embrace innovation, and navigate the exciting world of AI.
Is Your Team Ready for the Future of Work?
This Labour Day weekend, as we reflect on the nature of our jobs, I’m sharing some reflections on the impact of the AI revolution on the skills needed to move us forward. What if thriving in this new era isn't about mastering the latest tech, but about doubling down on what makes us uniquely human? A recent World Economic Forum report reveals that the most in-demand skills for 2025 are "human skills" like emotional intelligence and leadership.
I argue that one critical skill is missing: discernment. In an age of algorithmically generated content, the ability to question and critically evaluate information is more important than ever. The rise of AI means every member of your team will need to learn how to lead - not just people, but also the powerful new “AI agents” they'll be working with. The future isn't about replacing people with AI, but about empowering them to work alongside it.
Read the full article below:
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Destination Vancouver Launch California Consumer Campaign
This fall, Destination Vancouver is turning heads in the Golden State with a playful new campaign that positions Vancouver as the ideal destination for a spontaneous, invigorating escape. Running through to December 31st, the "Vancouver Fling" invites travellers in Los Angeles and San Francisco to Find Your Refresh with a short hop north of the border.
Through striking visuals and playful captioning, the campaign encourages travellers to embrace the thrill of a getaway that’s close enough to keep things casual yet far enough to feel like a true escape.
By leaning into Vancouver’s distinctive blend of city and nature, the campaign shows up in unexpected places with emotionally resonant messaging. The result: building brand affinity, strengthening consideration, and ultimately driving visitation. In a crowded advertising landscape, Vancouver’s bold Californian push is already making its mark. Learn more through the video below.
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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.
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PARKRIDGE RESORTS
Parkbridge Resorts (also known as Parkbridge Communities and Resorts) operates several types of properties across British Columbia, particularly RV camping and "Ready to Camp" lodging resorts, along with residential land-lease communities. Resorts include; Gallagher Lake Camping & RV Resort, Riverside Resort, Rondalyn Resort and Oceanside. These resorts provide a variety of stays; overnight RV sites, "ready to camp" options and long-term season stays that are ideal for snowbirds.
Learn more about Parkbridge Resorts HERE.
Photo Credit: Gallagher Lake Resort
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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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The Consumer Journey: Bringing BC’s Iconic Destination Brands to Life
Join Destination BC for an exclusive virtual event showcasing the full consumer launch of our Iconic Destination Brands across the global travel ecosystem.
Date: Thursday, September 18
Time: 10:00 am (PDT)
In this session, we’ll explore how the Iconic brands are coming to life across key touchpoints in the consumer journey. You’ll get a look at the evolution of the Super, Natural British Columbia® brand and the Let the Outside In creative platform, our media plan and activations across travel trade, travel media, and access to new tools for industry partners to leverage awareness of the new brands.
Learn more and REGISTER HERE.
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WORTHshop: Mental Health, Burnout, Boundaries & Recovery
What would change if we talked about what’s really going on at work? This session with Kimberly Flear (Founder, Last Call Coaching) explores how pressure, performance, and perfectionism show up across the visitor economy, and how we can interrupt the cycle with compassion, boundaries, and recovery-informed leadership. Expect real talk, practical tools, and simple shifts that can create psychologically safe, resilient teams. All are welcome.
Date: September 18 | 12 pm
Location: Virtual & Vancouver
Learn more and REGISTER HERE.
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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.
| | | CONFERENCES & SPECIAL EVENTS | |
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:
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Kick-Off Party at District Wine Village – This year’s musical act will be GLASS TIGER
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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.
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Festival of the Grape – The South Okanagan’s premier wine tasting event returns for its 26th year.
Learn more, including how to participate and purchase tickets HERE.
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FIFA World Cup 26: Industry Update
Join Destination Vancouver, the FIFA World Cup 26™ Vancouver Host Committee, and tourism partners for an update on preparations for FIFA World Cup 26™.
Date: Monday, September 22
Time: 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm (PDT)
Location: Vancouver Convention Centre (West), Rooms 211-214
This session will provide up-to-date information on tournament planning, highlight the opportunities and milestones ahead, and how Vancouver is preparing to deliver an outstanding FIFA World Cup 26™ experience.
RSVP early to ensure your place through THIS LINK.
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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.
Early Bird Registration (until July 31): $199 + GST
General Registration $299 = GST
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.
Early bird registration extended until Sept. 12. 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. Early bird registration ends Sept. 15.
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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. Early bird tickets go on sale in early September — stay tuned!
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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, QC
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
Early-bird registration is open until August 13, 11:59 pm. Learn more and register 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 (PST)
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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