Latest news with #OttawaTourism
Ottawa Citizen
5 days ago
- Ottawa Citizen
King Charles brought out crowds. Now Ottawa wants tourists to stay
Article content King Charles' royal visit kickstarted a busy tourism season in Ottawa, boosting the city's visibility for avid 'king spotters.' Article content Article content While it's unclear how many people came from out of town to see the king, many onlookers who spoke with the Ottawa Citizen went to great lengths to see the king. One monarchist, Rushad Thomas, drove eight hours from Maryland attend the festivities. Article content Article content Jerome Miousse, director of public affairs for Ottawa Tourism, said the royal visit sparked excitement for fans of the royal family, as well as tourists who were already in Ottawa. Article content Article content 'While it is hard to know exactly how much of the occupancy in local hotels can be attributed to it, partly because of its timing between the Tamarack Race Weekend and the highly-attended CANSEC conference, the visit creates promotional opportunities in the British market — a trend that was noticed after the uptick in British tourism to Ottawa following the royal visit in May 2022,' Miousse said in an emailed statement. Article content 'The difference this time around is the new direct flight launched on March 31, making travel easier for British visitors.' Article content The royal couple attended events around Ottawa on Monday and Tuesday, drawing thousands at Lansdowne Park and Rideau Hall. Article content Article content But the largest crowds were seen along Wellington Street on Tuesday morning when the king gave the throne speech, which marked the new session of Parliament. People in the crowd waved the Union Jack and Canadian flags, shouting their love for the royal couple as they rode in a horse-drawn carriage to the Senate that morning. Article content Article content More cheers could be heard after the king and queen laid a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at noon, concluding Charles' first visit to Canada as king. Article content The royal visit likely came with an initial cost for the City of Ottawa. Many of the events were heavily patrolled by Ottawa Police Service officers. Set up and clean up for each event were also done by city employees. Article content City staff said it is not on the hook for most of the costs associated with the visit, as it will be able to recover them from the federal government. Richard Bruxer, manager of business and technical support services for the city, said the final costs of the visit are still being finalized.
Ottawa Citizen
5 days ago
- Ottawa Citizen
King Charles' visit kickstarts busy tourism season in Ottawa
Article content King Charles' royal visit kickstarted a busy tourism season in Ottawa, boosting the city's visibility for avid 'king spotters.' Article content Article content While it's unclear how many people came from out of town to see the king, many onlookers who spoke with the Ottawa Citizen went to great lengths to see the king. One monarchist, Rushad Thomas, drove eight hours from Maryland attend the festivities. Article content Article content Jerome Miousse, director of public affairs for Ottawa Tourism, said the royal visit sparked excitement for fans of the royal family, as well as tourists who were already in Ottawa. Article content Article content 'While it is hard to know exactly how much of the occupancy in local hotels can be attributed to it, partly because of its timing between the Tamarack Race Weekend and the highly-attended CANSEC conference, the visit creates promotional opportunities in the British market — a trend that was noticed after the uptick in British tourism to Ottawa following the royal visit in May 2022,' Miousse said in an emailed statement. Article content 'The difference this time around is the new direct flight launched on March 31, making travel easier for British visitors.' Article content The royal couple attended events around Ottawa on Monday and Tuesday, drawing thousands at Lansdowne Park and Rideau Hall. Article content Article content But the largest crowds were seen along Wellington Street on Tuesday morning when the king gave the throne speech, which marked the new session of Parliament. People in the crowd waved the Union Jack and Canadian flags, shouting their love for the royal couple as they rode in a horse-drawn carriage to the Senate that morning. Article content Article content More cheers could be heard after the king and queen laid a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at noon, concluding Charles' first visit to Canada as king. Article content The royal visit likely came with an initial cost for the City of Ottawa. Many of the events were heavily patrolled by Ottawa Police Service officers. Set up and clean up for each event were also done by city employees. Article content City staff said it is not on the hook for most of the costs associated with the visit, as it will be able to recover them from the federal government. Richard Bruxer, manager of business and technical support services for the city, said the final costs of the visit are still being finalized.
Travel Daily News
23-05-2025
- Business
- Travel Daily News
Lesley Pincombe appointed President and CEO of Rogers Centre Ottawa
Lesley Pincombe becomes President and CEO of Rogers Centre Ottawa, bringing extensive business events expertise and a vision for economic and tourism growth. OTTAWA – The Rogers Centre Ottawa and its Board of Directors announce that after the completion of an extensive recruitment process, Lesley Pincombe has been appointed as its new President and CEO. Ms. Pincombe brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in the business events industry. Ms. Pincombe joins the Rogers Centre Ottawa after most recently serving as the Vice President of Sales, Business, and Major Events at Ottawa Tourism. At Ottawa Tourism, Ms. Pincombe demonstrated exceptional leadership, where her strategic vision and execution were instrumental in establishing Ottawa as a premier business events and sport hosting destination. Her efforts have not only enhanced the city's global reputation, but also significantly contributed to its economic growth. She played a key role in bringing the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championships to the City of Ottawa, which generated over $54 million in economic impact to the Province of Ontario. 'I am incredibly proud to succeed Nina Kressler and build upon the legacy and stewardship she has left at the Rogers Centre Ottawa. Leading this extraordinary team forward is an honour, and I am committed to continuing our work alongside our industry partners to attract business events to Ottawa and grow the visitor economy,' said Lesley Pincombe, Incoming President and CEO, Rogers Centre Ottawa. As President and CEO, Ms. Pincombe will continue to cultivate strong relationships with the community, hoteliers, government officials, and industry stakeholders. She will lead the incredible team at the Rogers Centre Ottawa to ensure service excellence, foster innovation, and preserve the award-winning reputation of the centre. Under her leadership, the centre will continue to be a major contributor to the local economy, driving growth through hosting events that create a positive impact and leave a lasting legacy for the City of Ottawa and the Province of Ontario. 'On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am thrilled to welcome Lesley Pincombe as the new President and CEO of the Rogers Centre Ottawa,' said Jim Armour, Chair of the Board, Rogers Centre Ottawa. 'Lesley brings a wealth of experience, a deep understanding of our industry, and a bold vision for the future. Her leadership will be instrumental as we continue to elevate the centre's role as a premier destination for events and a cornerstone of our community.' Ms. Pincombe is a graduate of the Algonquin College Hospitality Program and is a certified Convention and Event Planner. She has been recognized as a Forty Under 40 award recipient, has served as Chair and Past Chair of the Destination Canada Business Events Advisory Committee, and is an Honourary Ambassador of the Bruyère Health Foundation Board. Most recently, she was honoured with the King Charles III's Coronation Medal for her outstanding contributions to Canada. The Rogers Centre Ottawa – Canada's Meeting Place – is an internationally renowned convention centre located on the Rideau Canal in downtown Ottawa, Canada's capital. With bold, modern design, a naturally lit interior, and magnificent views, the Rogers Centre offers an unparalleled and environmentally responsible setting for conventions, conferences, meetings and exhibitions of any size. Since opening in 2011, the Centre has hosted thousands of events, generating millions of dollars of economic impact for the city of Ottawa and the province of Ontario. In 2020, it was named the world's best convention centre by the International Association of Convention Centres (AIPC). The Ottawa Convention Centre Corporation is an agency of the Government of Ontario.
CTV News
16-05-2025
- CTV News
E-scooters roll out in Ottawa: ‘It's convenient'
A tourist is using an e-scooter in Ottawa. May 16, 2025. Camille Wilson/ CTV News Ottawa)
Travel Daily News
13-05-2025
- Business
- Travel Daily News
Ottawa Tourism launches Responsible Events Guide
Ottawa Tourism launches Responsible Events Guide to help planners host sustainable, inclusive events, spotlighting destination leadership at IMEX Frankfurt 2025. Ottawa Tourism has launched its Responsible Events Guide, a comprehensive and practical resource designed to help event planners make more sustainable, inclusive, and community-minded choices when hosting meetings and events in Canada's capital. The guide will be officially showcased during IMEX Frankfurt from 20–22 May, where Ottawa Tourism will spotlight its growing leadership in responsible destination management. 'This guide reflects Ottawa's dedication to creating meaningful change within the meetings and events industry,' says Lesley Pincombe, Vice President, Business and Major Events at Ottawa Tourism. 'By offering tangible tools and local partnerships, we aim to make it easier for planners to align their events with sustainable values and leave a positive legacy in our city.' As part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability and as a signatory of the Sustainable Tourism 2030 Pledge, Ottawa Tourism developed this guide to inspire and empower organisers at all stages of their sustainability journey. Highlights and recommendation from the Responsible Events Guide include: A Planning Decision Tree to identify impactful changes throughout the event lifecycle – from signage and delegate kits to catering and décor. This easy-to-use tool encourages planners to eliminate unnecessary waste, rethink materials, and explore local legacy opportunities. Sustainable menu planning, with guidance on incorporating plant-based options, sourcing local and seasonal ingredients, and tracking meal attendance to minimise food waste. Tips include choosing smaller buffet plates to reduce over-serving, encouraging delegates to brings reusable water bottles, and hosting events at venues that support food recovery. Details on Ottawa's À la Carte Food Recovery Program – Canada's first destination-led food recovery initiative – developed in partnership with La Tablée des Chefs. Planners can host their event at a food recovery partner venue or donate a symbolic 'fourth course' to support organisations addressing food insecurity, like The Ottawa Mission and Shepherds of Good Hope. Accessibility recommendations to help foster more inclusive experiences, including providing delegates with opportunities to request accommodations, sharing accessibility details in advance, and collaborating with partners like Abilities Ottawa and Whimble Care. The guide also encourages feedback collection to improve accessibility for future events. Connections to local social impact programs, such as hosting Indigenous Markets to support Indigenous creators and businesses, or contributing to community tree-planting and educational initiatives through Forêt Capitale Forest. Customisable impact partnerships can also be arranged through local nonprofits. Ideas for waste reduction through circular practices – such as letting delegates opt out of receiving swag, using Ottawa's 'Lend-a-Lanyard' program, and prioritising recyclable signage or digital alternatives. Suggestions also include sustainable tradeshow guidelines that limit single-use giveaways and favour digital engagement tools like QR codes. Design ideas for lower-impact special events, such as replacing cut flowers with live plants that can be donated, choosing upcycled furniture from local suppliers like LouLou Lounge, and integrating sustainability stories into centrepieces and décor. A Donations Directory and Group Volunteer Options, helping planners connect with a variety of local charities and community organisations. From painting and food prep to wildlife sanctuary maintenance, the guide lists multiple year-round volunteer activities suitable for visiting teams. Storytelling strategies that help planners communicate their sustainability initiatives before, during, and after the event. From 'know-before-you-go' emailers and on-site signage to post-event recaps, the guide helps organisers embed authenticity and transparency into their messaging. Whether organisers are sustainability trailblazers or just taking their first steps, Ottawa's Responsible Events Guide offers flexible entry points, actionable tips, and local inspiration to ensure every event can make a difference.
