ITAC gears up to host Indigenous Tourism 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 February 17–19, 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 Tuesday, February 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.

“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,” said Keith Henry, president and CEO of ITAC, in a press release. “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.”

Come walk with us

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/ᐊᒥᐢᑲᐧᒋᐋᐧᐢᑲᐦᐃᑲᐣ (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.

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

The event will feature a lineup of Indigenous talent, including JUNO award-winning artists and acclaimed Indigenous chefs who have appeared on national programs such as MasterChef Canada, 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.

More than 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.

For more information on IITC, visit indigenoustourismconference.com.

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