Tourism Abbotsford is aiming to help the local economy bounce back from the challenges of COVID-19 and they believe event tourism can be the fuel behind that recovery.
According to data from Tourism Abbotsford, the economic impact from hosting 270 events per year is approximately $55 million, and with those numbers in mind the organization announced on Tuesday (Feb. 2) that an Events Advisory Committee has been formed to strengthen and attract more events.
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The purpose behind the committee is to increase and highlight Abbotsford’s position as a premier destination for events.
“Events are woven within the fabric of Abbotsford. They consistently bring the community together and are an integral part of our local visitor economy,” stated Daniel Laverick, board president of Tourism Abbotsford in a press release.
The committee is made up of representatives from: Tourism Abbotsford’s board of directors and staff, the city of Abbotsford, Abbotsford Centre, Tradex, Sport Abbotsford, the Chamber of Commerce, the Fraser Valley Indo-Canadian Business Association and event rights holder.
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Application are currently being accepted for the event rights holder position on the committee, with qualified applicants being locals who are experienced at hosting recurring annual events and those familiar with the benefits that tourism brings.
The Events Advisory Committee is expected to: nurture existing event, grow a portfolio of new events by helping event organizers bring their visions to fruition, increase transparency and facilitate dialogue amongst stakeholders, create connectivity amongst event organizers, and streamline partner roles and responsibilities.
“Signature events like the Airshow, Run for Water, Agrifair, Berry Fest, Nagar Kirtan Procession, Canada Day, and Jam in Jubilee provide local citizens with an array of things to do and help draw visitors to Abbotsford from neighbouring communities,” stated Craig Nichols, the executive director of Tourism Abbotsford. With facilities like Tradex, Abbotsford Centre, and Rotary Stadium, Abbotsford provides opportunities for shared experiences throughout the year.”
For those that are interested in applying for the Event Rights Holder position and to learn more, visit the Partner Bulletins section on Tourism Abbotsford’s website. The deadline to apply is Feb. 19, 2021.
Tourism Abbotsford has helped form the new Events Advisory Committee to build and attract local events. (Instagram photo)
