Canada Is Suddenly the Hottest Event Destination — Here’s What Planners Don’t Know Yet

Описание: Canada Is Suddenly the Hottest Event Destination — Here’s What Planners Don’t Know Yet
Featuring Natasha Botjill, CAN-Connect

Planning events in Canada is changing fast. In this conversation, we dig into what’s happening on the ground in Calgary — from tariff impacts and supply chain shifts to the rise in international conferences, local sourcing trends, and why planners are flocking to Western Canada for 2025–2027.

We hit everything from rooftop herb gardens to the sheer spectacle of the Calgary Stampede, plus what you need to know if you’re considering bringing your next conference, incentive, or activation north of the border.

If you’re watching the market, building your 2026 strategy, or curious about how Canada is handling the surge in demand, this quick update will give you real insights straight from the teams hosting the events.

(00:00) International planners are booking dates in Calgary that previously were easy to secure, reducing local availability.

(00:26) Tariff-related increases are affecting some parts of the hotel supply chain (AV equipment, imported furniture), but this property sources ~90 % of its food and beverage locally to mitigate impact.

(00:49) A U.S.-based planner recently chose a Canadian supplier instead of shipping supplies across the border — a shift that suggests growing reliance on local sourcing in Canada for event activations.

(01:14) The speaker gives a shout-out to the Calgary South branch of the hotel, praising its food and noting their rooftop garden / on-site greenhouse that grows herbs and microgreens even in winter.

(02:36) More international clients — especially from the U.S. — are showing interest in hosting events in Canada. Calgary (and broader Western Canada) is seeing increased event traffic.

(03:00) Unique attractions such as the Rocky Mountaineer luxury train and Calgary Stampede make the city especially appealing for event-planners seeking “new experiences.”
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(03:23) The Stampede is a major draw: described here as one of the biggest rodeos in the world — with fair rides, local food, and lively atmosphere. Hotels book months (or even a year) in advance during Stampede season.

(04:47) In terms of event types, there’s been a strong rise in conferences (rather than incentive-travel giveaways), especially in oil & gas sectors and among Canadian–U.S. companies.

(05:31) Overall report: More conferences than ever, especially in Western Canada. 2026 looks poised to be as busy as 2025 — perhaps even busier; planners are being encouraged to book early.

(05:48) Calgary offers proximity to the Rockies (a 2-hour drive), but climate can be extreme; winter weather swings driven by Chinook wind make cold winters unpredictable — a factor to consider if attendees come for winter events.