Kelowna's vibrant spirit and welcoming energy set the stage for meaningful dialogue, shared learning, and fresh ideas at this year's Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) AGM & Summit, held on October 22 and 23 at the KF Centre for Excellence.

Industry leaders, tourism operators, and community partners from across the Thompson Okanagan and beyond came together for a dynamic gathering under the theme, "New Routes, Bold Futures: Navigating Tourism's Transformation." The Summit focused on sharing learnings, inviting discussion on how the tourism industry is evolving with changes in technology and consumer behaviour, and what our region can do to seize new opportunities. 

Sessions focused on:

• Preparing the region for more travel trade
• Rethinking tourism challenges in the area
• Providing new and unique culinary, wellness, and agritourism offerings for visitors and residents
• Putting research and insights into action to drive business success and further resident support

Tourism Kelowna was proud to sponsor the harvest-themed Welcome Reception, held amongst vintage airplanes in KF Centre's hangar. The reception helped set the tone for meaningful connections and lively conversations that reflected our region’s spirit of generosity and abundance.

We extend our sincere thanks to the local partners whose support and expertise helped showcase the best of the Okanagan at the Welcome Reception:

• Perspective Events and New Horizon Productions worked together to design and produce the harvest-themed event. 
• Bespoke Games Co., The Boho Sketch Co., and Flash & Frame Photo Booth provided onsite activations and entertainment.
• Farming Karma Fruit Co., Iconic Wineries of BC, Jason Parkes Customs, Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery, and TJ's Grazing made sure guests savoured the best Okanagan sips and bites. 
• Acera Insurance and BigSteelBox joined as event partners, providing additional financial contributions.

As evidenced throughout the entire event, tourism industry members continue to strengthen our region’s visitor economy and showcase what makes the Okanagan extraordinary.
 

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