NATIONAL: Destination Canada's latest Quarterly Tourism Snapshot, which provides an ongoing monitor of the performance of Canada’s tourism sector, was published at the end of August. Key insights include that travel to Canada is in demand, with Google search from international markets exceeding 2019 levels; tourism spend progressed to 72% of its 2019 level; and domestic air travel has improved to 90% of its 2019 level, while international seat capacity to Canada stands at 84%.
CALGARY: Special Olympics Canada has announced that Calgary will be the host of its next Special Olympics Canada Winter Games in 2024. According to Blair McIntosh, Special Olympics Canada’s VP of sport, the city submitted a strong bid focused on “the care and comfort of our athletes.” Calgary will welcome approximately 1,300 participants for the Games, along with officials, honored guests, and many friends and family. Tourism Calgary expects the event to have an economic impact of more than $9 million on the local economy.
HALIFAX: The Atlantic International Film Festival returns this year Sept. 15-22. The festival is an eight-day celebration of Nova Scotian, Canadian, and international filmmaking. Alongside a full program of in-person screenings at Cineplex Park Lane, this year marks the return of events. Attendees can experience the Opening Night Gala, Closing Night Party Atlantic Awards Ceremony, and engaging filmmaker panels and Q&As. Ticket packages start at $64.99.
TORONTO: Destination Toronto has launched its first U.S.-facing marketing campaign since 2019, titled "You Gotta See What We See," showcasing "Toronto through the eyes of passionate insiders." The campaign features Canadian actor Simu Liu (Marvel's Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings); acclaimed chef Nick Liu; Mariah Amber, live and digital host for the Toronto Raptors; Santee Siouxx, a Dakhota and Odawa content creator who focuses on Indigenous history, representation, cultural appropriation, and sustainable brands; and Sonia Mangat, host and reporter on CTV's ETalk and CP24 Breakfast. Each will be featured in a video that showcases the insider’s favorite spots in the city, their unique perspectives on what makes Toronto special, and stories about what they love about the city.
VICTORIA, B.C.: Rifflandia returns after a four-year hiatus to Victoria’s Royal Athletic Park Sept. 15-18. The four-day music festival will feature headliners Lorde, Charlie XCX, and NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal as DJ Diesel. Along with a robust lineup of live music, festivalgoers can also enjoy food and artisan vendors. Tickets start at $72.45.
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