ITAC set to host international conference in Edmonton 

The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) will host the 2026 International Indigenous Tourism Conference (2026 IITC) at the Edmonton Convention Centre, taking place from Feb. 17 to Feb. 19, 2026. The event will bring together over 1,000 Indigenous tourism operators, government leaders, and industry partners from around the world, including delegates from the United States, the Caribbean, Latin America, Sweden, Australia, and New Zealand.

As part of the local Nations’ protocol, the conference will open with a Grand Entry on Tues., Feb. 17. The Grand Entry will feature Chiefs, dignitaries, sponsors, and the conference steering committee members, led by Elders Eddy Makokis and Lorraine Makokis, alongside powwow singers and dancers. A prayer by Elder Makokis and a welcome from dignitaries will follow.

Keith Henry, president and CEO of ITAC, said: “Our message has always been clear: Indigenous tourism plays an important role in Canada’s reconciliation, supporting economic development and cultural revitalization for Indigenous communities.”

Henry continued: “In IITC’s 13th year, we’re looking forward to celebrating with our partners, businesses and industry professionals on how far we’ve come in our industry and discussing the promising opportunities that lie ahead for Indigenous tourism.”

This year’s theme, “Come Walk with Us,” invites delegates and attendees to deepen their connection to Indigenous tourism and to share in the warmth, spirit and wisdom of Indigenous Peoples in Amiskwaciwaskahikan (Cree for Edmonton, Alberta). The region has been recognized as a place of meeting, trade and storytelling, reflecting deep connections among people, place and shared knowledge, providing an inspiring setting for meaningful conversations at this year’s IITC.

The conference will foster meaningful dialogue through networking opportunities, keynote speaker presentations and thoughtfully curated breakout sessions.

The event will also feature an impressive lineup of Indigenous talent including Juno Award winner Celeigh Cardinal; award-winning singer and songwriter Kaeley Jade; country and inspirational singer Stirling John; Métis musician Electric Religious; alongside Indigenous culinary creations from Shane Chartrand (Top Chef Canada, season 11), Red Seal chef and culinary instructor Cindy Lazarenko who has been featured on the Food Network’s You Gotta Eat Here, and many more; as well as an Indigenous vendor market showcasing over 95 businesses ranging from jewelry and apparel to coffee and tea.

Interest in Indigenous tourism continues to grow, proving to be a powerful driver of economic growth in Canada. Over 2,750 entrepreneurs and organizations were part of Canada’s Indigenous tourism sector in 2023, up from nearly 1,900 in 2021, and the industry generated around $594 million in revenue and supported over 30,000 jobs, while still recovering from the pandemic. This highlights the critical role Indigenous tourism plays, and will continue to play, in Canada’s economy.

Gatherings such as the IITC create important space for collaboration, connection and shared learning, bringing together Indigenous cultures, traditions and tourism experiences from coast to coast to coast, shaping the future of the Indigenous tourism industry together.

Go to www.indigenoustourismconference.com for more.