Tuesday, May 27, 2025
Saskatchewan has officially designated May 26 to May 30 as Tourism Week, a special time to spotlight the province’s growing tourism sector and its crucial role in driving economic development and strengthening community vitality. This week-long celebration recognizes the countless businesses and employees who serve as the foundation of Saskatchewan’s visitor economy, sustaining jobs and enriching the lives of people across the region.
Tourism plays a vital role in Saskatchewan’s economy, contributing nearly three billion dollars in traveler-related expenditures each year. For 2024, the industry is projected to support over sixty-two thousand jobs spanning full-time, part-time, and seasonal positions. Employment opportunities in this sector cover a wide range of fields, including hospitality, entertainment, retail, and cultural services, demonstrating its extensive reach and economic significance. Beyond offering stable, long-term careers, the tourism industry promotes diversity and inclusivity by embracing people from varied backgrounds. Additionally, it provides important seasonal and part-time work that serves as an ideal entry point for young people and students seeking valuable, hands-on job experience.
Saskatchewan Tourism Week is more than an economic celebration — it is a time to recognize the dedication and passion of tourism professionals who work tirelessly to showcase the province’s unique assets. The week also serves as an invitation to residents to explore and rediscover the many natural and cultural treasures within their own communities. By supporting local tourism, residents contribute directly to the sustainability and growth of the industry.
The week encourages residents to embrace adventure and discovery this summer by planning road trips, sampling local culinary delights, trying new outdoor activities, and seeking authentic experiences that reveal Saskatchewan’s distinctive character. Whether hiking scenic trails, visiting historic sites, attending community festivals, or engaging in indigenous cultural programs, travelers will find endless opportunities to connect with the land and its people.
Saskatchewan’s tourism sector is poised for significant expansion, guided by a forward-looking Growth Plan that identifies tourism as a major catalyst for employment, entrepreneurship, and economic diversification. The province aims to increase annual tourism expenditures to 3.6 billion dollars by 2030. Realizing this target will require continued innovation in product development, investment in infrastructure, and marketing efforts that spotlight Saskatchewan’s genuine hospitality and abundant attractions.
The province’s vast and varied landscapes—including rolling prairies, pristine lakes, and dense forests—offer stunning settings for activities such as fishing, boating, camping, and wildlife viewing. Meanwhile, vibrant cultural scenes in both urban centers and rural towns celebrate Indigenous heritage, arts, and culinary traditions, providing visitors with enriching and memorable experiences.
As summer approaches, tourism operators across the province are preparing for a busy season filled with visitors eager to explore Saskatchewan’s many offerings. To mark the occasion, a series of engaging videos and digital stories will be released on social media platforms throughout Saskatchewan Tourism Week. These features will showcase the province’s diverse tourism resources, highlighting signature attractions, events, and the dedicated people who bring these experiences to life.
Tourism’s benefits extend well beyond dollars and jobs. It stimulates local economies by supporting a wide range of small and medium-sized businesses, including accommodations, restaurants, tour operators, and retailers. This economic infusion helps sustain communities large and small. Additionally, tourism encourages cultural exchange and strengthens community pride by sharing Saskatchewan’s stories, traditions, and hospitality with visitors from near and far. There is also a growing emphasis on sustainable tourism practices that balance economic growth with environmental stewardship, ensuring that natural resources are preserved for future generations to enjoy.
Importantly, the tourism sector is a major contributor to workforce diversity, offering employment opportunities for individuals with varied skills, backgrounds, and education levels. This inclusiveness helps cultivate a vibrant and resilient labor market while providing youth with valuable job experience and skills development.
Looking forward, Saskatchewan’s commitment to growing its tourism industry forms part of a broader strategy to enhance economic resilience and diversify revenue streams. By capitalizing on its natural beauty, rich culture, and welcoming communities, the province aims to establish itself as a premier travel destination nationally and internationally. Saskatchewan Tourism Week is a reminder of the progress made and the exciting potential ahead.
The week also invites all residents to become ambassadors for their province by exploring local destinations, sharing their experiences, and supporting tourism initiatives. Whether revisiting favorite spots or discovering hidden gems, each visitor plays a role in fostering a thriving tourism economy.
In conclusion, Saskatchewan Tourism Week, taking place from May 26 to May 30, highlights an industry that is fundamental to the province’s economic strength and community well-being. This week honors the collective contributions of local businesses, employees, and citizens who help shape Saskatchewan into a welcoming and vibrant travel destination. As the tourism sector expands and transforms, it will continue to be a vital part of Saskatchewan’s character and a lasting point of pride for everyone in the province.
