Family Day is on Monday, February 17th. TIABC's office will be closed and will resume regular operations on February 18th. We hope you have a wonderful Family Day long weekend. Relax, spend time with loved ones and participate in one of the many activities planned in communities across the province. | | |
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It didn’t take long for anti-American sentiment to reach a feverish pitch once Donald Trump assumed office, largely because of the trade dispute initiated by #47. Even Canadian sports fans have taken to booing the US national anthem (which has not been well received BTW) to protest impending tariffs and other head-scratching proposals by POTUS.
I’ve been asked multiple times by media about the consequences of possible tariffs and counter tariffs on the tourism industry. The short answer is it’s both an opportunity and a threat.
For example, I’m told the ramifications could include a decline in visitors that travel in recreational vehicles (RV). The cost to purchase an RV is expected to increase significantly given that most units sold in Canada are manufactured in the United States with imported Canadian steel and aluminum. Similarly, the cost of a bus ticket could also rise since parts and components to build or repair motor coach engines are largely manufactured in Canada but assembled stateside.
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TIABC and several of its industry partners have been working diligently on this file over the past couple of weeks. One of the tactics to position tourism as an opportunity to bolster British Columbia’s economy, is to send a message to politicians, media, community leaders, other business associations, and relevant stakeholders via an op-ed that touts the benefits of an industry that is sustainable, creates jobs, has the potential to grow market share from new export markets, and contributes to social, cultural, environmental and economic prosperity.
To that end, we’ve created a template that you can draw from, personalize, or use as a foundation to communicate with your customers, members, media, decision-makers and relevant audiences. I encourage you to amplify the message that BC’s tourism industry is very much poised for growth in spite of the broader issues like tariffs.
Tourism Primed to Lead BC’s Economic Prosperity in Challenging Times
Tourism is one of British Columbia’s largest business sectors with a foothold in virtually every community and region in the province. In 2024, the industry generated an estimated $22 billion in revenue and a projected $9 billion in GDP, and directly employed over 154,000 people in 16,300 businesses.
Aside from the domestic market, BC’s tourism industry relies on travellers from all over the world, particularly the United States, which represents some 50% of international expenditures in the province and 75% of all visitors from other countries.
Similar to the forestry, mining and manufacturing sectors, tourism is an export industry but with one notable difference. Rather than shipping commodities abroad for customers to buy, tourism generates revenue by bringing people here from other countries to purchase BC products and renewable experiences.
As the trade dispute between Canada and the United States continues to advance, BC’s visitor economy stands side-by-side with other natural resource sectors, businesses and senior levels of government to find solutions and opportunities in the event that tariffs are implemented in March.
In a recent survey of Tourism Industry Association of BC members, 70% of respondents indicated that tariffs are somewhat or very likely to have an impact on their business or community. The prospect of a fortified border, a recessed Canadian economy, anti-American sentiment, and higher costs for goods were among the concerns cited by tourism operators and destination management organizations in every region.
Regardless, the tourism industry has a unique opportunity to help lead BC’s economic prosperity through private and public investment in shovel-ready projects that will not only generate revenue and create jobs, but will also add to the incredible experiences and world class reputation British Columbia enjoys as a must-visit destination. At the same time, we need government assistance to create a level of certainty by eliminating unnecessary regulation while also speeding up decision-making on tenures and infrastructure that helps support good paying jobs, strengthens existing businesses, fosters partnerships with Indigenous nations, reinforces environmental stewardship, and generates revenue for communities and regions throughout the province.
In the meantime, as a sector we commit to collectively reinforcing sales and promotional efforts domestically and internationally to maintain existing markets, as well as retain a strong presence in the United States to strengthen relations with millions of Americans who enjoy visiting friends, family and colleagues throughout British Columbia.
During a time of great uncertainty and fear, the tourism industry is poised to be the catalyst to drive BC’s economy forward. It is also a bridge to celebrate myriad values such as diversity, respect, dignity, and equality that we share with visitors from around the world, including our closest neighbour, the United States.
In the context of tourism and tariffs, TIABC's messages are clear:
A. No matter their political views, we value and welcome our American friends who represent BC’s largest international visitor market.
B. Businesses, sectors, as well as community, regional and provincial destination management/marketing organizations (DMO) will continue sales and promotional efforts in the United States while also pursuing opportunities to grow market share domestically and internationally.
C. DMOs will continue to promote local and iconic experiences throughout BC to encourage residents to travel within the province and Buy BC.
D. Tourism is a catalyst for economic growth and is in the best position to quickly diversify into new export markets like India, Dubai, Taiwan, Singapore, Japan, Korea, and Brazil.
E. The Canadian dollar is low relative to the American dollar so the value for experience for US visitors is exceptional.
F. While some communities are experiencing cancellations or a decline in US visitation, others are seeing record numbers of American visitors, and bookings are trending well for the coming months.
TIABC is actively working on this file from multiple angles, including but not limited to:
A. Engagement with provincial and territorial counterparts to support TIAC on advocating for incremental government investment to bolster tourism marketing efforts in key international markets including the United States, as well as a support package should tourism significantly decline as a result of tariffs.
B. Collecting and remitting research and data to TIAC on areas such as operator sentiments vis-a-vis the impact of impending tariffs, as well as booking patterns of American and other international visitors to BC to help inform further federal advocacy initiatives.
C. Coordination of a proposed virtual roundtable with key stakeholders and decision-makers to share information, data, and strategies to mitigate the impacts of impending tariffs.
D. Media interviews, social media communication and key messages on impacts and opportunities to various audiences.
E. Liaison with the province and Premier’s Task Force to provide relevant tourism data and strategies for government investment in BC’s visitor economy.
F. Regular industry engagement such as surveys to ensure any potential issues are identified for lobbying and advocacy efforts.
In these early days it’s difficult to know the extent to which the proposed tariffs and counter tariffs will affect tourism and BC’s broader economy. Suffice it to say, we continue to monitor the daily developments and will endeavour to keep you posted on TIABC actions pertaining to this critical issue.
I bristle when people boo national anthems at sporting events, mostly because it doesn't accomplish anything and actually creates a greater wedge. Moreover, I don’t understand anti-American sentiment over this issue since many US citizens disagree with what their president is doing in bullying a close ally. So whether it’s friends, family, colleagues or customers from the United States, they deserve to be welcomed in spite of the politics that can so easily divide us.
As Premier Eby so eloquently said to Team USA at the opening ceremonies for the Invictus Games, “It doesn’t matter what the politicians say, because if you need us, you just say the word USA, and if we ever need you, you’d be there in a second.”
It goes without saying, our tourism industry is counting on it.
Walt Judas
CEO, TIABC
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Stay updated on the latest news and developments by checking out this week's compilation of important matters impacting and influencing our industry. | |
TIAC Delivers Briefing on Tariffs, Potential Impacts and Key Messaging for Industry
As we all navigate this evolving landscape, the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) want to remind our industry of the importance of the deep ties between Canada and the U.S. Seventy percent (70%) of our international visitors coming from this market and these connections are built on years of friendship and shared experiences, and we must continue to foster them.
President and CEO, Beth Potter is reinforcing that "while we hope that recent developments do not deter Americans from visiting Canada, we encourage Canadians to embrace domestic travel, just as they did in the post-COVID recovery. Exploring our own backyard not only supports local economies but also strengthens our national tourism industry. Canada is open for business, and we are ready to welcome visitors from the U.S. and around the world with open arms."
TIAC has prepared a detailed briefing on the tariffs, potential impacts, and TIAC’s advocacy work that includes key facts and messages prepared by government officials.
1). Facts and Data – U.S. partners
These messages can be used to inform U.S. government officials and businesses on the close Canada-U.S. trading relationship, explain how the U.S. tariffs on Canadian imports would impact Americans, and encourage U.S. partners to advocate against these tariffs.
2). FACT SHEET
Canadian businesses play an important role in ensuring the Government of Canada’s actions on border security are known and understood within the United States.
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Letter to Government | Impact of Tariffs on the Canadian Motor Coach Industry
Earlier last week, Motor Coach Canada (MCC) wrote a letter to Hon. Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs regarding the Government of Canada’s announcement to impose tariffs on buses, and possibly bus parts as a portion of the phase two retaliatory tariffs on imported U.S. goods.
The letter explains how the impending tariffs on buses and parts will impact the supply chain on both sides of the border, creating severe economic consequences not only for Canadian motor coach manufacturers but for the average Canadian that depend on motor coaches and buses for transit or tourism purposes and specifically for Canadians employed in these sectors.
MCC notes that buses are a critical part of the transportation ecosystem in Canada and urges the Government of Canada to exclude buses, parts, supplies and materials used to
produce motor coach buses from the phase two package of tariffs.
Read the letter HERE.
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TIABC Working With Ministry of Housing to Address
STR Regulations & Registry
Since the new short-term rental registry was introduced just over three weeks ago, several TIABC members and stakeholders have reached out with questions vis-a-vis registration obligations by accommodation providers in resorts, tourism dependent communities, and jurisdictions currently exempt from STR regulations. In addition, operators have expressed concern about the added expense and unintended consequences of the registry requirements.
We've shared all of the questions with the Ministry of Housing to seek answers or provide clarity to information that appears confusing or incomplete. Importantly, TIABC is working with the policy team on elements of the regulations that require adjustments to avoid penalizing proprietors of accommodation that was intentionally built for visitors. The STR legislation was intended to target units (e.g. houses, apartments, condos, carriage homes) originally built as residences for owners or long-term tenants.
With the February 28th registration deadline looming, we will share more information in the week ahead. In the meantime, registration information can be found here:
- Short Term Rental Registration | Strata Platform
- Short Term Rental Registration| Host
- BC's Short Term Rental Legislation
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go2HR Release January 2025 Labour Market Results
go2HR has shared the January 2025 Labour Market Update for BC’s Tourism and Hospitality sector. While employment saw a slight decline this month, certain regions and sectors continue to show resilience, highlighting opportunities for targeted recovery efforts.
Labour Market Overview:
- Employment in the sector decreased by 1.2% from December 2024 to January 2025.
- Employment remains 10,000 jobs below January 2019 levels, indicating continued challenges in workforce recovery.
Regional Insights:
- Employment declined across all regions except for the Lower Mainland, which saw an increase.
- The Thompson Okanagan and Vancouver Island regions continue to exceed pre-pandemic employment levels, while the Cariboo, Lower Mainland, Northern BC, and Kootenay regions remain below.
Sectoral Performance:
Increases: Recreation & Entertainment sector employment rose in January.
Declines: Accommodation, Food & Beverage, and Transportation & Travel sectors saw job reductions.
Workforce and Labour Force Trends:
- The labour force increased by 0.3% in January 2025. Gains in the Lower Mainland outweighed losses in other regions.
- The percentage of full-time workers remained steady at 59%.
- The unemployment rate increased to 6.1%, exceeding pre-COVID levels.
To learn more, visit the go2HR BC Tourism and Hospitality Employment Tracker HERE.
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Government Confirm 2025 Minimum Wage Increase
Effective June 1, the general minimum wage in BC increases from $17.40 to $17.85 per hour. This follows the changes made in Spring 2024 to the Employment Standards Act, which mandated annual wage increases.
Minimum wage rates for residential caretakers, live-in home-support workers, camp leaders, and app-based ride-hailing and delivery services workers will receive the same 2.6% increase on June 1st. On December 31st, the minimum piece rates for 15 hand-harvested crops will also increase by the same percentage.
The minimum wage rates increase on June 1 of each year, except for the minimum agricultural piece rates that increase on December 31 of each year to ensure crop producers will not have to adjust wages in the middle of the harvesting season.
Read the official announcement from government including learning more about BC's minimum wage HERE.
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Foodservice Sector Reaches Highest Employment | Attributes GST Holiday
According to a message from Restaurants Canada and the latest Labour Force Survey by StatsCan, employment in the foodservice sector increased to its highest level since the start of the pandemic in January. This has been spurred by guests taking advantage of the GST/HST holiday, notes Restaurants Canada, as the industry added 34,600 new jobs since November 2024, representing one in six new jobs created across the country.
January and February tend to be the slowest times for the restaurant industry, which often leads to lower employment levels. Restaurants Canada has been calling on the federal government to exempt all food from GST and HST or at least extend the tax relief until the tariff dispute with the U.S. is resolved. More than half (53%) of restaurants are operating at a loss of just breaking even, compared to just 12% pre-pandemic, largely as a result of reduced consumer spending.
The GST/HST tax holiday ends February 15th. Read the full announcement from Restaurants Canada HERE.
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Destination Canada Launch Wealth & Wellbeing Index
Destination Canada has released a first-of-its-kind measurement tool that looks beyond traditional metrics like visitor spending and arrivals to assess the comprehensive benefits tourism brings to Canadians.
Tourism’s Wealth & Wellbeing Index highlights the sector's role in empowering communities, preserving culture, protecting Canada’s natural assets, and driving economic growth - demonstrating tourism’s potential to empower local economies while enhancing Canada’s global competitiveness.
The Index serves as a strategic tool for industry leaders, policymakers, and businesses, offering data-driven insights and best practices from across the country to inform decision making and the ability to capitalize on tourism’s growth potential.
Learn more HERE.
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Last week, TIABC posed the following question to our readership:
How likely will cross-border tariffs affect your business?
There was a strong response to the question, resulting in the following responses:
Very Likely/Somewhat Likely - 70%
Neither Likely or Unlikely - 7%
Somewhat Unlikely - 5%
Very Unlikely - 5%
Do Not Know - 12%
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New Resources Available for Small Businesses and Tourism Operators
An update from the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness has advised of the addition of the "Small businesses and tourism operator preparedness social media package" to their website.
This has been prepared for destination management organizations and tourism associations to encourage their members to prepare for emergencies, mainly marketing PreparedBC’s Emergency Plan for Tourism Operators.
As a reminder, printed copies can be ordered free of charge through Crown Publications:
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Heritage Week | February 17 - 23
Heritage is made up of the pastimes and traditions that shaped the identity of communities. This year’s Heritage Week: Pastimes in Past Times celebrates the many ways people spent their leisure time throughout history, exploring how these activities have contributed to the cultural fabric of today.
Take time next week to discover something new about the pastimes that have shaped the heritage of the place you call home.
Learn more, including how to participate in Heritage Week HERE.
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Destinations Professional Day - February 19
Destinations International (DI), is launching an initiative to gain recognition for the important contributions of the tourism sector and those who work in it by promoting the annual celebration of February 19th as “Destination Professionals Day.” The first observance will be next week.
The objective of an annual observance is to raise awareness and appreciation for the important role of destination organization professionals, celebrate them, and highlight the varied and exciting career tracks the sector offers as a means of attracting future generations of destination professionals
To support this initiative, DI has developed a comprehensive toolkit that includes FAQ's, suggested talking points, a press releaste template and graphics. Access the toolkit HERE.
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Nanaimo Cruise Industry Set for Growth in 2025
The Nanaimo Port Authority has reported that following two successful arrivals in 2024, four ships are scheduled to stop in the Harbour City this year and the arrivals represent a lot of hard work behind the scenes.
The focus for the Nanaimo Port Authority continues to be on smaller vessels and cruise lines, with the region’s ability to offer carefully curated tours and programs. Their partnerships with Tourism Nanaimo, Snuneymuxw First Nation and regional business operators have helped to create a complete experience for visitors, according to the Nanaimo Port Authority.
Read more HERE.
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ORCBC Release "Outdoors for All"
The Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC) has introduced Outdoors for All: An Inspiration Guide for Creating Welcoming Outdoor Recreation Spaces. The new guide is designed to help outdoor groups take meaningful steps towards building more inclusive and accessible communities.
To accompany the release of the guide, ORCBC hosted a webinar on "How to Make the Outdoors more Welcoming to All".
- Watch the webinar recording HERE.
- Download the Outdoors for All guide HERE.
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RFP | Indigenous Advisory Services to
Destination Greater Victoria
Destination Greater Victoria (DGV) is seeking proposals from qualified firms or individuals with in-depth experience in Indigenous cultural and community advisory services and with deep experience in economic reconciliation. The selected partner will play an important role in providing advisory services that align with DGV’s initiatives to support the uplifting of authentic Indigenous tourism businesses. DGV has in-house capacity and has partnerships with a variety of Indigenous tourism associations. We invite experts who are committed to Indigenous inclusion and sustainable tourism to join us in this endeavor.
Deadline for submission is March 7, 2025. Learn more HERE.
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Input Needed | Proposed Bridal Veil All-Seasons
Mountain Resort
The Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport has received an Expression of Interest for a proposed all-seasons resort east of Chilliwack. Referred to as the Bridal Veil Mountain Resort, the project is envisioned to be Canada’s first all-seasons mountain resort that’s jointly planned, constructed, and majority-owned by First Nations, the Stó꞉lō Peoples.
The public is invited to complete a questionnaire indicating their interest and potential uses for the resort. The questionnaire takes approximately 5–10 minutes to complete and must be submitted by February 28th at 4pm.
The engagement and project page, with link to an online survey is available HERE.
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We’re hard at work at finalizing details to the 2025 conference program. Expect exceptional sessions by our valued partners at Destination BC, Indigenous Tourism BC, and Destination Canada, along with an outstanding selection of breakout sessions that will provide tools & insights, highlight innovations, and spark thought-provoking discussions.
Detailed programming including updates on keynote speakers, engaging sessions and networking opportunities are available on the conference website.
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Closing Plenary Speaker Hege V. Barnes
Collaborative Pathways: Learning, Leading, and Acting Together for Sustainability: Innovation Norway
In this thought-provoking keynote, Hege Vibeke Barnes will challenge the traditional notion that all growth is good.
Drawing from her experience at Innovation Norway, she will explore how to balance the business case for tourism growth with the urgent need for climate action and responsible travel practices.
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We value our members and are excited to share with them the latest news, successes, and achievements! | |
Greater Victoria Harbour Authority to Receive $22.5M for Victoria Shore Power Project
Earlier this week, Hon. Anita Anand, Minister of Transport and Internal Trade, joined the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) to announce $22.5 million will be received to advance the Shore Power Project under the Government of Canada’s Green Shipping Corridor Program.
This funding is a significant step toward electrifying the deep-water port at The Breakwater District, reducing emissions and supporting long-term economic growth in Greater Victoria. It will also contribute to the broader Green Shipping Corridor across the Pacific Northwest, accelerating the transition to low-carbon and net-zero technologies in the marine sector.
Shore Power is a critical first step in electrifying Ogden Point. It will ensure the terminal can provide the necessary power for cruise ships, vessels, and commercial operations like HeliJet and SSA Marine, as well as over 30 businesses and future partners.
To learn more about the announcement, read the news release from GVHA HERE.
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The Parkside Hotel & Spa Honoured With Vancouver Island 2024 Sustainability Award
Announced earlier this week, the Parkside Hotel & Spa has been awarded the Environmental Sustainability Award at the 2025 Vancouver Island Business Excellence Awards, recognizing innovation in sustainable practices, setting a precedent for environmental responsibility.
Designed with purpose and an early adopter of sustainable practices, The Parkside Hotel & Spa is the first hotel in Canada (and the first urban hotel globally) to join Beyond Green's portfolio of the world's most sustainable hotels.
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Destination Greater Victoria Deliver 2024 Highlights and 2025 Initiatives
Destination Greater Victoria (DGV) presented its 2025 business plan to its members this week and are proud to share a video to highlight some noteworthy accomplishments from 2024, and key initiatives for 2025.
- Watch the video HERE.
- If you weren’t able to attend, you can read DGV's 2025 Business Plan HERE.
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Now is the Perfect Time to Book Your 2025 Fishing Trips
TIABC member Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC want to remind everyone that many campsites and fishing lodges book up months in advance and encourage avid anglers to set aside some time now to plan with your friends and family.
To assist in your planning, they have prepared a month-by-month Guide to Freshwater Fishing. By planning your approximate fishing calendar for the year ahead, you’ll optimize both your time on the water and number of hook-ups.
Check out the Fishing Guide HERE.
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BC WILDLIFE PARK
The Kamloops Wildlife Park Society (also known as the BC Wildlife Park) is governed by a volunteer board directors and attained national status in 1987 when it received accreditation from the Canada's Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA).
The BC Wildlife Park connects people to BC's wildlife and wild places in order to encourage a sustainable society within a healthy natural environment. It's mission is to encourage the appreciation of and respect for BC's wildlife, and to assist in preserving biodiversity through education, research, captive breeding and rehabilitation services.
Learn more about the BC Wildlife Park HERE.
Photo: Courtesy of BC Wildlife Park
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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.
Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information, visit our website HERE or the link below.
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BCTCRI Workshop #7: Marketing & Storytelling
Join Destination BC for the Community Destination Stewardship Initiative's upcoming workshop on Marketing & Storytelling in the context of climate resilience in the tourism industry. Through this workshop, participants will learn about the powerful impact of marketing and storytelling in advocating for climate resilience in the tourism industry.
Date: February 19
Time: 10:00 am (PST)
Register HERE.
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JUST RELEASED | Unlock the Power of Generative Al in Tourism Workshop Series
TIABC and Tourism AI Network are partnering together to empower BC's tourism professionals with AI training by offering an opportunity to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the tourism industry.
Join Peter Pilarski from Tourism AI Network for this 6-part virtual workshop series:
- March 10: AI in Action: Foundations of Generative AI
- March 14: AI in Action: Unlocking ChatGPT’s Potential
- March 18: AI in Action: Harnessing AI for Personal Productivity
- April 7: Unlock the Power of Your Data with Effective Governance
- April 10: Unlock the Power of AI to Elevate Customer Service in Tourism
- April 11: Marketing Applications of Generative AI in Tourism
Workshops are open to everyone. Attend one session or the full series and gain practical tools to drive your success in tourism.
Cost: $149 CAD per session. Seats are limited! Learn more and register in the link below.
Note: TIABC members enjoy special savings: Use promo code TIABC10 for a 10% discount on individual sessions or TIABC15 for a 15% discount on the full series bundle.
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CONFERENCES & SPECIAL EVENTS | |
Malahat SkyWalk Family Day Weekend
Looking for the best thing to do on Vancouver Island this Family Day weekend? Look no further! At Malahat SkyWalk, they are offering 50% off single admission tickets so you can enjoy live music, and views so good, they’ll leave you speechless (but your camera roll full). Pack up the family, lace up your comfy shoes, and let’s make some memories in the treetops!
Dates: February 14-17
Learn more about the weekend activities HERE.
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Okanagan Winter Wine Festival
This winter, the Okanagan is serving up two spectacular wine events that promise unforgettable moments, exquisite flavours, and world-class wines!
Taste Lake Country
Date: February 22
Time: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm
Location: Scenic Sip Route
Winter Sips North
Date: March 1
Time: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Location: Hotel Eldorado, Kelowna
Learn more about these events and purchase tickets HERE.
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Sunshine Coast Flavour Festival
Indulge in 10 days of culinary adventures from Gibsons to Lund. Enjoy exclusive menus, special offers, and unique events from over 35 local food and drink artisans, including restaurants, cafes, tasting rooms, food trucks, and specialty shops. This is your chance to sip, savour, and celebrate the vibrant culinary scene of the Sunshine Coast.
Dates: February 28 - March 9
Learn more HERE.
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SPARK! - BC Liquor and Cannabis Conference |
ABLE BC is excited to announce the highly anticipated, third annual SPARK conference returns revamped and revived with a focus on liquor primaries, private liquor stores, and now private cannabis stores. SPARK is being held in conjunction with the annual BC Tourism Industry Conference.
Date: March 5
Location: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre
Get pumped for a full day of advocacy updates, networking with like-minded business owners, and learning from industry experts in the liquor and cannabis fields. Learn more and register HERE.
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Flourish 2025
Flourish is Vancouver Community College (VCC) Foundation's annual fundraising experience. It’s an opportunity to come together to support their students as they change their lives through the power of real learning and hands-on education.
Join in for an evening of food and wine, and help the community thrive.
Date: March 5
Time: 7:00 - 10:00 pm
Location: VCC Broadway Campus, 1120 E. 7th Ave., Vancouver
Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.
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WORTH Leadership Summit
Join WORTH for Western Canada’s only summit dedicated to women in recreation, tourism, and hospitality—an inspiring event designed to uplift women, elevate organizations, and drive progress across our industry.
Date: March 11
Location: Westin Bayshore, Vancouver
Held on the week of International Women’s Day, the WORTH Leadership Summit is for anyone dedicated to uplifting women in recreation, tourism, and hospitality—regardless of gender. Whether you’re a manager, entrepreneur, or aspiring leader, the Summit offers valuable insights and connections to fuel your growth.
TIABC members use discount code TIABC10 for a 10% discount on registration. Discount Code: TIABC10. Learn more and register HERE.
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Capilano University | 2025 Tourism Hiring Fair
In celebration of National Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning Week, Capilano University is inviting you to connect with tourism co-op and practicum students at their Tourism Hiring Fair. This event brings together tourism and hospitality industry leaders, experienced professionals, and talented and motivated tourism/hospitality students.
Date: March 13
Time: 10:30 am - 2:00 pm (PDT)
Location: Birch Building (Lower Cafeteria), Capilano University North Vancouver Campus.
Format: In person.
Students will be divided into groups and attend the Hiring Fair only during their allocated time slot.
- Non-profit organizations, email annakuziakina@capilanou.ca for a 100 CAD discount code before you purchase your ticket.
- After purchasing a ticket on Eventbrite, you will receive an email regarding the next steps
Tickets are limited. Register HERE.
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Guide Symposium
Join the Commercial Bear Viewing association and the Marine Guides Association of Canada for two days of inspiring talks, skill-building workshops, and lively discussions on elevating the art of guiding.
Connect with fellow guides, share stories, and build lasting friendships.
Dates: March 15-16
Location: Vic Theatre, Victoria
Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.
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Mark Your Calendars — BCHA Summit
The 2025 BCHA Summit is returning to Vancouver! The Summit brings together a distinguished gathering of hospitality industry leaders, including hoteliers, chief decision makers, and key stakeholders from across British Columbia.
Date: April 22-23
Location: Westin Bayshore, Vancouver.
The BCHA Summit offers a dynamic program, Marketplace with 50+ exhibitors, and the prestigious Awards of Excellence.
Early bird registration closes February 21st! Visit the conference website and learn more HERE
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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.
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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.
More information and registration to be available soon!
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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.
Stay tuned for more details, including registration and speaker updates.
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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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