Vancouver, Coast & Mountains
Dec. 2025 Newsletter

Register Now: VCM Industry Forum

Join us for the 2026 Vancouver, Coast & Mountains Industry Forum on Wednesday, February 4 at the Delta Hotels Burnaby Conference Centre. This free, in-person event features updates on tourism trends, the 2026 outlook, Indigenous tourism, sustainability, and more.

This year’s theme, “Tourism Together,” highlights the power of collaboration to strengthen communities and grow BC’s visitor economy.

rEgister now →

Emergency Preparedness Resources

With the recent flooding affecting parts of the region, it’s timely to revisit the emergency communication tools available to BC’s tourism industry.

Whether you’re a tourism operator, sector association, or destination management organization, having clear, coordinated messaging ready during emergencies helps protect visitor safety and maintain confidence.

Destination BC’s Emergency Messaging Guidance is now available as a dynamic web resource. Previously shared as a PDF, this content is easier to access and navigate online.

Resources include:

• Templates, checklists, and planning tools
• Guidance for real-time response
• Trusted sources for up-to-date information
• Recommended mobile apps for frontline use

TOURISM EMERGENCY RESOURCES →

Travel Media Relations & Travel Trade Update

The Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region was pleased to participate in the 2025 CITAP+ Winter Function in early December, joining Destination BC’s market development team for the Asian markets. The annual event is a full day of connection and learning, including insightful educational sessions followed by a dynamic afternoon marketplace where the team shared information on the Iconics, product updates, and FIFA resources as receptive tour operators look to 2026. For more information about VCM’s travel media relations and travel trade activities, or to share story ideas and new product updates, contact Heather McGillivray at [email protected].

City of Vancouver and Whitecaps FC Sign MOU for Hastings Park Redevelopment

The City of Vancouver and Vancouver Whitecaps FC have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to pursue the development of a new stadium and entertainment district at Hastings Park—a project that will generate jobs and introduce a major new venue to the city, while ensuring the Whitecaps remain in Vancouver.

The proposed site falls within the current Hastings Racecourse footprint, including areas previously used for racecourse and casino operations, with the City retaining land ownership. Both parties also acknowledge the Tsleil-Waututh Nation’s agreement to purchase the existing casino business on the site.

LEARN MORE →

FIFA World Cup 26™: What the Match Schedule Means for Tourism

With Vancouver set to host teams from Australia, Switzerland, Qatar, New Zealand, Egypt, Belgium, and Canada during FIFA World Cup 2026™, Destination BC is sharing updates on how this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is being leveraged province-wide.

LEARN MORE →

SEE BC Sparks New Opportunities in Sport Tourism

Congratulations to Sport BC, Richmond Sport Hosting, and Toa Consulting on the inaugural Sport Event Exchange BC (SEE BC).

This new event brought together sport-tourism and sport-event hosting professionals to:

• Share insights
• Build connections
• Spark new opportunities

The day included engaging panel discussions, including a session on FIFA World Cup 2026™ BC-Wide Strategies for Engagement & Activation for Major Events, presented by Destination BC’s Imran Gill. 

LEARN MORE →

Outdoor Recreation and Adventure Tourism Generate $17B in Revenue

New research reveals the significant impact of BC’s outdoor recreation and adventure tourism sectors.

Conducted by the BC Ministry of Environment and Parks, Destination BC, the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC, and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, the study found:
 

• $17 billion in revenue earned in 2023
• $3.2 billion in wages and salaries
• Nearly $2 billion in provincial and municipal taxes

Destination BC has released a new activity profile on outdoor recreation.

FULL REPORTS →

New AI Tools from Destination Canada

Aurora AI is a new suite of free and easy-to-use tools that help tourism partners across Canada access meaningful insights. These tools are designed for businesses, tourism organizations, DMOs, industry associations, government, and industry leaders who need reliable, trusted tourism insights and data for impactful strategy and fast decision making.

Use Traveller Twin to identify key audiences, or Aurora Search to find data to support planning, pitches, or funding requests.

TRY AURORA AI →

Spreading Cheer at Tourism Chilliwack’s Christmas Appreciation Breakfast

Our team was pleased to attend Tourism Chilliwack’s annual Christmas Appreciation Breakfast, a valued tradition that brings together tourism partners from across the Fraser Valley.

Held bright and early, the event delivered warm food, festive spirit, and meaningful conversations. It was a thoughtful way to celebrate the people who help tourism thrive in Chilliwack and beyond.

It was a joy to reconnect with so many partners and friends in one room.

stal̕əw̓asəm Bridge: A New Name and Milestone for Pattullo Replacement

As final paving begins, the new bridge replacing the Pattullo has been officially named stal̕əw̓asəm Bridge, meaning “a space where you can view the river”—a name gifted by the Kwantlen First Nation and Musqueam Indian Band. With four lanes and dedicated paths for walking and cycling, the bridge enhances safety and mobility between Surrey and New Westminster. It will also feature Coast Salish art and bilingual signage in hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ and English, reflecting Indigenous values of kinship, trade, and stewardship.

LEARN MORE →

BC’s First Harbour Swimming Deck Announced in North Vancouver 

The City of North Vancouver and national charitable organization Swim Drink Fish Canada have unveiled plans for a landmark swimming deck in Burrard Inlet, anticipated to open in 2027. 

It will feature:
 

• Protected swim zones
• Accessible shallow pool
• 50-metre lanes
• Diving platforms and lounging areas

This flagship project launches the new WAVE Prize. Grants of $3–15 million are available to local governments and First Nations communities across BC to support projects that revitalize waterfronts and reconnect communities with clean, swimmable waters. Apply for the WAVE Prize by Jan. 9, 2026.

LEARN MORE →

Floating Wellness Experience Anchors at Vancouver Maritime Museum

A new wellness destination is coming to Vancouver’s waterfront, as HAVN Saunas secures a new home at the Heritage Harbour Marina, beside Hadden and Kitsilano beaches. In partnership with the Vancouver Maritime Museum, the floating sauna and hydrotherapy facility will launch at the northern tip of Vanier Park by mid-2027. 

This innovative collaboration brings a design-forward, public wellness experience to the city, while generating new revenue to support the Museum’s educational and community programming. 

LEARN MORE →

New Westminster Sparks Innovation with First-Ever NWX Tourism Contest

Tourism New Westminster, supported by Pooni Group, Destination BC, the City of New Westminster, and Vintop Development, recently held the first-ever New West Experience (NWX)—a creative challenge aimed at inspiring fresh, bookable tourism experiences in the city. 

From a strong pool of entries, four winning concepts were selected: 
 

• Royal City Wrestling Nights and Strum & Sip: Tied Non-Student Business Experience 
• TEDx NewWest: Student Business Experience 
• Bioluminescent Experience: Tourism Improvement Idea 

LEARN MORE →

Business Feature: WildPlay Maple Ridge

Think ziplines and tree-top obstacles are off limits for guests with disabilities? WildPlay Maple Ridge proves they aren’t. The team focuses on flexible planning, thoughtful support, and an environment that helps guests take on challenges at their own pace.

Following a recent visit, Spinal Cord Injury BC (SCI BC) recognized the park’s inclusive approach. Their assessment highlighted clearer wayfinding and steady, confidence-building guidance offered by staff. 

“Adventure should invite people forward, not hold them back,” says Tom Benson, co-founder and CEO of WildPlay Element Parks. “When guests connect with us ahead of time, we shape the experience together that respects choice, creates trust, and still offers real challenge and play.”

Guests with disabilities are encouraged to reach out to WildPlay before their visit so the team can prepare an experience that supports their requirements and keeps the spirit of adventure front and centre.

“It’s always great to see outdoor experiences designed with access in mind,” says Nancy Harris, SCI BC’s Regional Development Liaison and Access BC Lead. “WildPlay Maple Ridge has implemented a range of features and safety protocols to support inclusion. Washrooms and other amenities are painted with high-contrast colours to improve usability.” 

The Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region has an ongoing partnership with SCI BC to help tourism businesses update the accessibility attributes on their SuperNaturalBC.com listing. To request this service, please contact [email protected].

Support Inclusive Hiring Through the Tourism Workplace Accessibility Clinic

Tourism employers with staffing challenges are invited to participate in the Belong project, led by Tourism HR Canada and supported by go2HR. This free clinic helps you tap into a skilled but often-overlooked local talent pool: people with disabilities.

The clinic provides practical support to help you hire inclusively, access training, understand workplace accommodations, and build a welcoming culture.

LEARN MORE →

Canadian Ski Council and GreenStep Launch National Ski Industry Stewardship Program

The Canadian Ski Council, in partnership with GreenStep, has launched the National Ski Industry Stewardship Program—an initiative designed to advance environmental, socioeconomic, natural, and cultural leadership across Canada’s ski industry. Designed to help ski areas respond to climate change and shifting community and industry needs, the program will roll out in four phases: regional workshops, a national stewardship survey, development of a Canadian Ski Area Stewardship Playbook, and implementation of a national training program.

LEARN MORE →

Tourism Sustainability Training Courses – Spring 2026

Synergy Academy, a new learning initiative by Synergy Enterprises, offers practical, action-oriented sustainability training for the tourism industry. These five-part virtual courses are designed for Destination Management Organizations, First Nations, tourism operators and sustainability leads ready to move from intention to impact. Participants will gain tools and insights to integrate sustainability into their operations, strategy, and decision-making processes. The next courses run from March 3–31 and March 4 – April 1, 2026.

LEARN MORe & register →

Register for the 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference

Join tourism professionals from across the province at the 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference, taking place March 4–6 at the Delta Hotels Grand Okanagan Resort in Kelowna. Early bird registration is now available—register by Jan. 14, 2026 to take advantage of discounted rates and reserve your place at one of the industry’s most anticipated annual gatherings. Details on keynote speakers, session topics, and the full conference program will be shared in the coming weeks. 

ReGISTER HERE →

Register for IMPACT® Sustainability Travel & Tourism Conference 2026

Registration is now open for the IMPACT® Sustainability Travel & Tourism Conference, taking place Jan. 25–28, 2026 at the Victoria Conference Centre. Hosted by Destination Greater Victoria, this influential event brings together tourism professionals, government representatives, and community leaders to examine the industry’s growing responsibility as both a vital economic engine and a catalyst for environmental, social, and cultural change.

REGISTER HERE →

Host an Event for BC Heritage Week 2026

BC Heritage Week returns Feb. 16–22, 2026, coinciding with BC Family Day and Canada’s National Heritage Day. This province-wide celebration invites British Columbians to reflect on and share the stories that define their communities, with the 2026 theme, “Stir the Pot,” highlighting food as a personal yet universally shared expression of heritage. Tourism organizations are encouraged to take part by hosting heritage-themed events—planning resources and ideas are available on the BC Heritage Week website. 

LeARN MORE OR REGISTER AN EVENT →

New Trail Catalyst Fund Supports Trans Canada Trail Projects

Communities along the Trans Canada Trail may be eligible for the newly launched Trail Catalyst Fund, created to enhance the Trail’s quality, connectivity, and long-term sustainability. Eligible applicants include groups that own or manage sections of the Trail, with funding also available for broader trail initiatives such as tree planting, youth wage subsidies, and trail development in First Nations communities. Applications are accepted year-round and reviewed quarterly. The next intake deadline is Dec. 31, 2025.

lEarn more →

Apply Now: Outdoor Recreation Fund of BC

The Outdoor Recreation Fund of BC is now accepting applications for projects that enhance and promote outdoor recreation throughout the province. Open to non-profit organizations, First Nations communities, and local governments, the fund supports a wide range of initiatives, including trail development, infrastructure improvements, stewardship efforts, and community engagement activities that encourage responsible recreation. Applications are open until Jan. 20, 2026. 

lEarn more →

• CPKC Holiday Train (Agassiz): Celebrate the season with food trucks, children’s games, and meet-and-greets with Santa & Mrs. Claus. The holiday train rolls in at 5:45 p.m., setting the stage for a live performance by Barenaked Ladies. Don’t forget to bring a donation for the local food bank! Date: Dec. 19 (4:30–6:30 p.m.)

• Lights by the Lake (Harrison Hot Springs): Step into a winter wonderland along the waterfront, beautifully lit through Jan. 11. Enjoy festive fun with free hot chocolate, Christmas storytime, live music by Ahshï, and photos with Santa and Sasquatch. Date: Dec. 20 (5–7 p.m.)

• Blackberry Winter Arts Market (Port Moody): This lively market has celebrated local makers for over 28 years. Browse original art, handcrafted goods, and festive experiences perfect for holiday gifting. Dates: now to Dec. 22, 2025

• Holly Jolly Chilliwack (Chilliwack): Chilliwack’s District 1881 glows with lights, festive markets, cozy train rides, and a towering 40-foot Christmas tree, making it a holiday destination for the whole family. Dates: now to Dec. 24, 2025

• The Shipyards Christmas Market (North Vancouver): Now in its second season, this festive market features over 100 wooden stalls filled with handcrafted gifts, twinkling lights, and live music. Enjoy ice skating and European holiday fare like bratwurst and mulled wine. Dates: now to Dec. 24

• Bright Nights at the Noel Holiday Light Festival (Cloverdale): The Noel Holiday Light Festival transforms over 30,000 square feet into a sparkling wonderland with nearly three million lights, now featuring the iconic Bright Nights display from Stanley Park. Enjoy rides, live music, and a one-kilometre light trail, with admission supporting the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund. Dates: now to Dec. 28, 2025 (closed Dec. 24 & 25)

• Sip & Sparkle: Light Up Langley (Langley): Raise a glass to the holiday season with festive tastings at Langley’s wineries, distillery, brewery, and cidery—each aglow with lights. Running weekends in December, it’s a spirited way to sip, sparkle, and support the Langley Food Bank. Dates: now to Dec, 31, 2025

• Holiday Lights in Langley City (Langley): Step into a festive wonderland in Langley, where holiday cheer twinkles at every turn. Follow a self-guided tour of dazzling light displays and merry scenes—just grab a map and choose your route, whether by foot or car, to discover points of interest throughout the community. Dates: now to Jan. 6, 2026

• Free Outdoor Skating (Surrey): Surrey Civic Plaza is now home to the city’s first free outdoor skating rink, launched during the city’s annual Tree Lighting Festival. This 4,000-square-foot rink offers skate rentals and group bookings for gatherings or seasonal fun in the heart of the city. Dates: now to Feb. 16, 2026

• Artful Pints (Port Moody): Get creative at monthly Art Nights at The Parkside Brewery, held on the first Wednesday of each month on Brewer’s Row. Enjoy a hands-on project led by local artists, and leave with a one-of-a-kind creation and maybe a new favourite beer. Dates: Jan. 7, Feb. 4, March 4, April 1, 2026

• Whistler Pride Festival (Whistler): Whistler has been home to Pride celebrations for over 30 years, and now that legacy is being carried forward with a new Whistler Pride Festival, produced by Tourism Whistler. This week-long celebration of inclusion will feature on-mountain adventures, après gatherings, and community events.​​​​​​​ Dates: Jan. 25 – Feb. 1, 2026