Supporting economic recovery for the tourism sector through the pandemic

IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 16, 2020, Comox Valley, B.C. – Comox Valley Economic Development Society (CVEDS) and Tourism Vancouver Island (TVI) have entered into a service agreement whereby TVI will manage the Vancouver Island (Comox Valley) Visitor Centre as well as manage tourism marketing for the communities in the Comox Valley. This agreement is effective January 1, 2021 and will be in place for two years. “This agreement provides for short-term support for Comox Valley Economic Development Society, Comox Valley municipalities and the businesses it engages with, during a time of organizational change,” says Bill Anglin, Chair of the Comox Valley Destination Marketing Advisory Committee. “As CVEDS also navigates the effects and challenges of the pandemic on our local economy and tourism industry, our need for assistance with visitor support and recovery marketing is compounded.” “Tourism Vancouver Island is leading the tourism industry’s recovery in the Vancouver Island region by adapting to the evolving needs of tourism businesses and communities,” says Anthony Everett, President & CEO, TVI. “We are committed to aiding the survival of nearly 3,500 tourism stakeholders in the region through supports such as our advocacy role to government, Vancouver Island Coastal Tourism Resiliency Program and service agreements, where needed.” Tourism Vancouver Island periodically enters into service agreements with community destination marketing organizations, or tourism operators, in the areas of marketing, development, governance and visitor support. TVI provides these services where it is believed the expertise of team members, and the stability and structure the organization can provide, improves the tourism eco-system as a whole within the Vancouver Island region and province. Service agreements are typically interim solutions meant to develop long-term resiliency for the partner, and are not profit-driven ventures for the Tourism Vancouver Island business model. Examples of past and current Tourism Vancouver Island service agreements include: governance structures for Tourism Ucluelet, marketing services for the Regional District of Mount Washington (Vancouver Island North Tourism), brand identity development for Homalco Wildlife & Cultural Tours, and visitor services for the City of Nanaimo. ###  About Comox Valley Economic Development Society: The Comox Valley Economic Development Society (CVEDS) was formed in 1988 and is a non-profit society with annual funding from the City of Courtenay, Town of Comox, and the Comox Valley Regional District areas A, B and C and is responsible for the delivery of economic development services on their behalf. Its mission is to encourage responsible expansion of the economic base of the Comox Valley with the intent of enhancing wealth and employment opportunities. CVEDS helps existing businesses grow, and works with potential investors and entrepreneurs to realize the benefits of investing and doing business in the Comox Valley. For more information, visit www.discovercomoxvalley.com. About Tourism Vancouver Island: As one of five not-for-profit destination management and marketing organizations within the province, Tourism Vancouver Island’s mission is to support Vancouver Island’s evolution into a globally preferred travel destination. Governed by a volunteer board of directors, the association represents tourism stakeholders throughout the region, including Victoria, Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, and a stretch of mainland coast between Moses and Bute inlets. Tourism Vancouver Island gratefully acknowledges funding from the Province of B.C. through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. For more information, visit www.tourismvi.ca. Destination Marketing Advisory Committee: A note from Chair Bill Anglin, view here. Media contacts: John Watson Executive Director Comox Valley Economic Development Society 250.792.0375 john@investcomoxvalley.com Anthony Everett President & CEO Tourism Vancouver Island 250.640.1604 anthony@tourismvi.ca
Support Local FB Pic Dcv News
For immediate release November 6, 2020 Comox Valley, BC: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Comox Valley Economic Development and Tourism is partnering with Support Local BC, an online portal created and launched so that customers could purchase gift certificates for local, independent business throughout British Columbia. The Comox Valley Economic Recovery Task Force (ERTF) received many submissions from local industries including retail, hospitality and small business, highlighting the importance and need of continued support for shopping local throughout the pandemic, and as the Comox Valley recovers after. “This gift card focused program helps support our communities, encourage social distancing and will allow businesses to maintain some cash flow while we tackle this incredibly difficult situation,” said ERTF Co-Chair Mayor Bob Wells. 100% of the proceeds go directly to local business owners. Two pages have been established within the Support Local BC platform for Comox Valley, Support Local Comox and Support Local Courtenay. Businesses in each of these areas, and surround regions, can register directly using the Submit Your Business Form, the sign-up process takes about two minutes. Gift certificates are available for purchase in $10, $25, $50 and $100 denominations. Financial support for this Comox Valley economic recovery program has been provided by Coastal Community Credit Union and also supported by the Comox Business in Action (BIA), Downtown Courtenay BIA, and Community Futures Strathcona. Coastal Community Credit Union Senior Manager, Community Experience and Communications, Allyson Prescesky said “it’s inspiring to see that, despite the challenges they may be facing, local businesses are finding innovative ways to keep going strong. We want to help grow this momentum, and we’re able to do that by partnering with Support Local BC. We look forward to the positive effects that will result for our Island economies and our communities through this important initiative.” There are over 1500 businesses represented throughout BC by the Support Local BC initiative. The Comox Valley ERTF, initiated by the Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) Board, includes elected representatives from the CVRD, Village of Cumberland, Town of Comox, City of Courtenay, K’ómoks First Nation and a representative from 19 Wing Comox . The work of the task force is supported by the Comox Valley Economic Development Society.

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Media Contacts: Bob Wells Mayor Email: mayor@courtenay.ca Phone: 250-792-1945
Comox Valley, British Columbia:    With the transition to Phase III of BC’s Restart Plan, the Comox Valley Economic Recovery Task Force (ERTF) is pleased to see the steady return of BC residents visiting the Comox Valley, safely. Phase III permits BC residents to take part in smart, safe and respectful travel within B.C., noting the cautions taken at home need to be applied when travelling. “The Comox Valley looks forward to continuing to welcome visitors back to explore and enjoy the area responsibly,” said Hegus (Chief) Nicole Rempel, Co-Chair of the ERTF, adding “Tourism is critical to our region’s economy and small businesses, as is the safety and well-being of our residents. Together with our operators, Comox Valley businesses have responded with safety measures and protocols to ensure their staff, guests, visitors and clients can all enjoy the attractions and services of the area.” Maintaining a healthy status in the Comox Valley this summer is as simple as remembering Dr. Bonnie Henry's rules: “I have been really impressed with the social distancing and safety protocols I’ve seen implemented in businesses throughout the Comox Valley, in anticipation of the return of visitors and local customers. While our region has seen steady growth in international visitors over the years, the Comox Valley still relies heavily on BC residents. We are well positioned to welcome them safely this summer,” said Mayor Bob Wells, City of Courtenay and Co-Chair of the ERTF. As everyone heads out to enjoy the Comox Valley’s incredible range of things to do, including the new ZipTour at Mount Washington Alpine Resort or perhaps a Marine Wildlife or Culinary Tour, be sure to follow Dr. Henry's other rules: Be Kind, Be Calm, Be Safe. For information on the Comox Valley’s Know Before You Go messaging to visitors, which includes guidelines from Indigenous Tourism BC, Destination BC and the BC Government’s Guidelines for BC Travel, visit DiscoverComoxValley.com.   -30-   Media Contacts: Hegus (Chief) Councillor Nicole Rempel, K’ómoks First Nation Phone: 250-339-4545 Email: Nicole.rempel@komoks.ca Mayor Bob Wells, City of Courtenay, ERTF Co-Chair Phone: 250-334-4441 Email: mayor@courtenay.ca   Background: The CVRD initiated the established ERTF to develop and direct implementation of an Economic Development Recovery Plan to mitigate the potential economic impact to local businesses from the COVID-19 pandemic. More information about the establishment of the ERTF and the TAC can be found on www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/connect/news
Comox Valley, BC:    To encourage business start-up and growth in Comox Valley, entrepreneurs now have access to in-depth market information about their local neighbourhoods, thanks to a new partnership between Small Business BC and Comox Valley Economic Development & Tourism (CVEDS). Bizmap is an interactive, online research tool that provides users with key market insights on neighbourhoods across Vancouver and Vancouver Island. Users can find data on area demographics, business types, building information, neighbourhood history and area activities — all at the local level. As BC’s Restart Plan takes effect, this service will provide important market research that supports economic growth, recovery and resiliency for Comox Valley small businesses. “Whether you’re starting a new business, or expanding an existing one, having a thorough understanding of your customer base is invaluable,” says Tom Conway, CEO of Small Business BC. “If you know who you’re serving, Bizmap will help you find your customers and choose the best place to locate your business.” The new, enhanced Bizmap website was launched in Vancouver in 2018 in partnership with the City of Vancouver and Vancouver Business Improvement Associations. Bizmap is now proud to expand outside Vancouver for the first time, bringing critical data to Comox Valley business owners. “We are proud to have collaborated with Small Business BC and the Downtown Courtenay and Comox BIA's to become the first region outside of Vancouver to develop these investment area profiles for the downtown areas. These are powerful tools, not only to support existing businesses with robust data and information, while also supporting potential investors in analyzing and comparing key market data to make key business decisions,” said Geoff Crawford, Manager, Business Development. “While advice, education and resources are always available for entrepreneurs through Small Business BC and CVEDS, we’re extremely pleased that we’re able to support Comox Valley businesses and potential investors with this very localized market information, thanks to our partnership with CVEDS,” says Tom Conway, CEO of Small Business BC. The downtown Courtenay and downtown Bizmaps are available at www.bizmap.ca and businesscomoxvalley.com   Media Contacts Small Business BC Felix Trash Marketing Coordinator Special Projects, Small Business BC Direct: 604-718-5450  trash.felix@smallbusinessbc.ca Geoff Crawford Manager, Economic Development, Comox Valley Economic Development & Tourism Cell: 250-792-2197  geoff@investcomoxvalley.com   About Small Business BC Small Business BC is here to help British Columbia's entrepreneurs grow successful and sustainable businesses through expert business advisors, educational services and easy-to-use free tools. For anyone who's a business owner, or thinking of starting a new business, they’re here to help. About Bizmap Bizmap is a collaboration between Small Business BC and Comox Valley Economic Development. Bizmap provides easy access to market data tailored to customized business districts. Presented in a clear and relatable way, the area-specific information will help local businesses and communities to grow. About Comox Valley Economic Development The Comox Valley Economic Development & Tourism office was formed in 1988 and is a non-profit society with annual funding from the City of Courtenay, Town of Comox, and the Comox Valley Regional District areas A, B and C. Comox Valley Economic Development & Tourism assists companies and entrepreneurs access key services and resources, and act as a catalyst for economic growth in the region. Its Mission is to encourage responsible expansion of the economic base of the Comox Valley with the intent of enhancing wealth and employment opportunities.
Growers Guide Cover 2020 Web
New Taste Comox Valley app responds to COVID-19 issues   Buying local has never been so important, and in support of increasing local farm gate sales, the 2020 Comox Valley Growers Guide arrives today, showcasing over 40 different farms and producers, and a myriad of incredible products available throughout the seasons. The Growers Guide has become the go-to tool for those looking for fresh, local products in the Comox Valley. Each producer listing shows icons of product types including those farms that are bike accessible, and is supported by a seasonal growing charts and maps indicating the producer’s location, plus editorial on a range of topics including local industry associations, seafood availability, and a message from the Minister of Agriculture, Lana Popham. The partners in the Growers Guide expanded in this edition to include Mid-Island Farmers Institute, Comox Valley Exhibition, in addition to founding partners the Comox Valley Farmers’ Market, Comox Valley Farmers’ Institute, and Comox Valley Economic Development & Tourism. This year has brought many new challenges to the local agrifood sector, and in response to COVID-19 crisis, the Taste Comox Valley App was established to promote shopping locally and raise increase awareness around the farms and producers who sell direct to the public. Available on the Apple App Store or Google Play, users can download the app for free and start exploring farms, collecting points, deals and discounts using this interactive platform. For those that like cycling and learning about agriculture, the annual Comox Valley Farm Cycle Tour will be held on Sunday, September 20, and provides the opportunity to bike around the Valley to meet the producers and farmers, and learn about their practices and products. Presented by agricultural industry groups, and the Comox Valley Cycling Coalition and Comox Valley Economic Development & Tourism, new for 2020 the registration fee will be replaced with donations to the Comox Valley Food Bank, in response to COVID-19. “I want to congratulate the Comox Valley Farmers’ Market, Comox Valley Exhibition Society, Mid-Island Farmers’ Institute, and Comox Valley Farmers’ Institute for their leadership in putting together this excellent guide for the local community.” said Minister Popham. Just under 100k copies of the Growers Guide will be distributed via the Comox Valley Record and Island BlackPress papers in June and again in July, as well as the Comox Valley Farmers’ Market, the Vancouver Island (Comox Valley) Visitor Centre, through local participating farm stands, and can be found online at agrifoodcomoxvalley.com.
Dine Around Poster 11x17 Feb 2020
Courtenay, BC – The sold out Grand Tasting event on Feb 18th kicked off the most anticipated winter culinary experience in the Comox Valley, the 11th Annual Comox Valley Dine Around Festival. Discover Comox Valley together with the Dine Around Festival Advisory Committee, (comprised of local restauranteurs Ronald & Trish St. Pierre of Locals Restaurant, Sandra Viney of Atlas Café, Barb & Ed Hanson of the Blackfin Pub and Deana Simkin of High Tide Public House) are pleased to present the 11th annual Comox Valley Dine Around Festival, which takes place February 20 to March 15, 2020. This year’s Dine Around Festival includes many returning favourites plus several new participating restaurants, and new culinary events and experiences for 2020. Locals and visitors can experience the wide range of restaurants, craft breweries, and wineries that the Comox Valley has to offer with prix-fixe 3-course dinners for $25, $35 or $45 per person. In addition to dinner, select restaurants are also offering a $25 lunch option. Come and try an old favourite or a new restaurant with options ranging from fine-dining to family-friendly, and everything in between! Dine Around is complimented by Sip Around, which is the ultimate Happy Hour in the Comox Valley! Sip Around and enjoy drink specials proudly presented every Friday and Saturday during the Dine Around Festival, at participating restaurants, pubs and beyond. Relax over a glass of wine, the perfectly poured pint or the delicious cocktail you’ve been waiting for all week. In addition to the amazing Dine Around menus and beverage specials that showcase the best of the Comox Valley, several of our Dine Around partners have created specialty culinary events for patrons to enjoy. Events include From the Alps to Africa: A Journey through the Food and Wines of Italy at Il Falcone, Sip and Savour Tours with Ambassador Transportation, Dine Around the 40 Knots Cellar at 40 Knots Estate Vineyard and Winery, Locals Nite Out at the Blackfin Pub and German Night at New Tradition Brewing Company. Don’t miss any of these culinary experiences which will tantalize your taste buds, please your palate, and inspire the foodie in you! Visit comoxvalleydinearound.com for event and ticket details. 2020 participating Dine Around venues include: 40 Knots Winery, Ace Brewing Company, Atlas Cafe, Avenue Bistro, Bisque, Blackfin Pub, Fluid Bar & Grill, High Tide Public House, Il Falcone, Land and Sea Brewing Co., Locals Restaurant, Martine’s Bistro, Match Eatery at Chances, New Tradition Brewing Company, North Island College at the Park, Ocean7 & Aqua Bistro and Wine Bar at Kingfisher Resort, Toscano’s Mediterranean Grill, Whistle Stop Pub, Javier’s Latin Cuisine Restaurant, Church Street Taphouse, The Atrium at Crown Isle, Pizzeria Guerrilla, Union Street Grill & Grotto, Griffin Pub, and Yiamas Greek Taverna.
Escape the January Blahs with Mega Après Ski Event Roster Over 40 concerts and performances to heat up winter 2020   What better way to warm up after a day on the slopes of Mt. Washington Alpine Resort or to shake the January blahs, than a night on the town! Discover Comox Valley’s Après Ski event features an extensive list of awesome events and kicks-off January 17th and continues in downtown Courtenay and Comox with entertainment & fun found throughout local pubs, restaurants and performing venues through to February 8. The event line-up starts with a Painting with Egg Tempera Workshop with Bill Kerr on January 18 and a performance by The Whiskeydicks January 31 and February 1, and continues through February featuring other major events including Vocello Trio, a piano, cello and vocal chamber concert on February 6, and the Ultimate Dance Party with Time Well Wasted and Retro Rock Revival on February 7. Après events finish with a bang at the 2020 Barn Dance with Almost Alan and Quin with One N on February 8. Free events abound including performances by Easy Street, Jilli Martini, Farley Mifsud, Mike Behm, Richard Spencer, Andrea Rose, Lady K, Busheilkin and Meades, Luke Blu Guthrie, Amanda Hicks, Tyler Bartfai, DJ Elizer, Fanfare and KC and the Moonshine Band plus Après Ski events like the daily Après Ski Party at New Traditions Brewing Company, Name that Tune at Land and Sea Brewery, Talk ’N Tunes at High Tide Public House and the Artist Talk – Through a Sculptors Eyes taking place at the Vancouver Island Visitor Centre. The host venues showcase the range of engaged business in downtown Courtenay and Comox including Flying Canoe Kitchen + Bar, Blackfin Lounge, Cornerstone Taphouse, New Tradition Brewing Company, Land & Sea Brewing. Comox Valley Economic Development and Tourism (CVEDS) with the support of partners and the Comox Valley’s Destination Marketing Advisory Committee, has collaborated in creating this event as a way to drive increased visitation to the region during what is typically a quieter period. Partners include Comox Valley Exhibition, Mount Washington Resort Assn., Comox Valley Arts Society, Destination British Columbia, Mt. Washington Alpine Resort, Comox BIA, Downtown Courtenay BIA, Courtenay accommodation providers, the numerous event host venues and entertainers. With hotels offering up to 50% off Ski with Stays, it’s not only a perfect time to visit the Valley, but a wonderful time to get out and enjoy the region & the many participating businesses. Tickets, contests and more information ApresComoxValley.com or call the Vancouver Island Visitor Centre, 250-400-2882.   Media Contacts: Lara Greasley, Marketing and Communications Comox Valley Economic Development & Tourism 250-334-2427 x 233 lgreasley@investcomoxvalley.com
Comox Valley, B.C. October 1, 2019    October is Small Business Month and Comox Valley Economic Development and Tourism (CVEDS) is celebrating by hosting a series of Lunch & Learn Sessions, Professional Development Workshops, and a Tourism Industry Mini-Conference. Business owners, managers, and staff can take advantage of various educational, development, and networking opportunities, many of them free, to help them grow and thrive in the Comox Valley. The start of the month kicks off with the Business Counts Lunch & Learn Workshop Series, sponsored by the Business Development Bank of Canada. Topics including Starting a Small Business (Oct. 10), Things to Consider When Buying or Selling a Business (Oct. 17), Expanding Your Markets (Oct. 28), Food Safety Trends and Innovations (Oct. 29), E-Commerce (Oct. 31). Attendees will learn from leaders in a range of business fields to help enhance business objectives with new trends, tools and tips. These sessions are free and will be held at the Comox Valley Economic Development office in downtown Courtenay. Additional professional development workshops are happening October 21st to 23rd during the Tourism & Professional Development Week will be held at the Vancouver Island Visitor Centre, with three workshops including: “Superhost Destination Ambassador Comox Valley” is perfect for any frontline staff and is tailored specifically to the Comox Valley; the Food & Beverage Industry Workshop features speakers from BC Restaurant Foodservice Association as they discuss how to “Make Social Media Work for You”; and the sold out “Grow with Google” Program, presented by Tourism Vancouver Island. That week will culminate with the Tourism Industry Mini-Conference, October 24th, 4-7:30pm, Vancouver Island Visitor Centre. Operators, owners, frontline staff, volunteers and stakeholders will come together to learn, provide vital input into 2020 tourism and destination marketing plans, and network with sector leaders! Speakers from Tourism Vancouver Island, Mountain Bike Tourism Association, and BC Ale Trail will host informative mini-sessions. There will also be information stations presented by Destination BC, Tourism Vancouver Island, Comox Valley Airport, Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce, Comox Valley Arts Council, Sid Williams Theatre, Courtenay Downtown BIA, Harbour Air Seaplanes, and North Island College Student Employment Services. The Networking BBQ & Mixer will be catered by The Pickled Carrot with tasting stations from 40 Knots Vineyard & Estate Winery, Wayward Distillery, New Traditions Brewing Company, Ace Brewing Company, and more. For more information on these and other business development and training events, times and ticket registration, visit BusinessComoxValley.com or call the Vancouver Island Visitor Centre 1-855-400-2882. Media Contact Lara Greasley, Manager, Marketing and Communications Comox Valley Economic Development and Tourism 250.334.2427 x 233 cell 250-702-1298 lgreasley@investcomoxvalley.com
Comox Valley, B.C. August 19, 2019 Celebrate cycling, local food, farmers, and producers in the Comox Valley during the 9th annual Comox Valley Farm Cycle Tour on Sunday, September 22nd. Cyclists can tour the various farms and wineries/breweries, enjoy tasty food and drink samples, watch engaging demonstrations such as cow milking and maple syrup production, get lost in a hedge maze, watch a busy bee hive at work, buy amazing local products, and much more. The Comox Valley Cycling Coalition partners with Comox Valley Economic Development & Tourism, the Comox Valley Farmers Market and area farms to develop this unique cycling experience as a way to drive awareness around the Comox Valley’s cycling beauty and agricultural bounty, and increase visitation and local product sales. The event has changed and grown over the years to not only involve incredible farms, but also craft wineries, breweries and distilleries, and much more. With over 25 stops to choose from, and more being added, there’s something for everyone! Stops include: 40 Knots Estate Winery, Alderlane Farmhouse Bakery, Amara Farm, Anderton Nursery , Berry Best Farm, Big D's Bees, Blue Haven Farm, Blue Moon Winery & Ciderworx, Clever Crow Farm, Coastal Black Estate Winery, Fireweed Farmstead, Forbidden Brewing Co, Innisfree Farm & Botanic Garden, Kehler Vegetable Company, Lloydshaven Dairy Farm, Outback Nursery & Garden Centre, Paradise Plants Garden Center, Shelter Point Distillery, Sleeping Dog & Mermaid Farm, Wayward Distillation House, Willovic Farm, and more! Comox Valley Mushrooms, Eatmore Sprouts & Greens, Green Gate Farm, Kate’s Flowers, Lentelus Farms, Seal Bay Farm, and Warwick Dahlias are new additions to the 2019 tour thus far! Cyclists are able to pick their pleasure and choose to visit whichever stops they wish, creating their own tour route, meaning cyclists of every level can enjoy the Tour at their own pace. Each tour stop will be offering a unique experience to cyclists ranging from local product tastings, farm tours, demonstrations and more. Amped Rides will have rental electric bikes available on-site for those who pre-book and The Broken Spoke will be at registration with a tune up booth. Cyclists can pamper themselves with local products without worrying about loading up their bike handlebars with bags – Ambassador Shuttle will pick up purchases and deliver back to the start point. Tickets are $15/person with Kids 15 & under free, and participating Courtenay accommodation providers are offering free registration for guests who stay with them on the Farm Cycle Tour weekend. The Farm Cycle Tour weekend has more culinary activities taking place including the Comox Valley Farmers Market, September 21; Harvest Dinner and Dance, September 21; and Sip & Savour dining experience, offered by Ambassador Tours. For more information visit www.FarmCycleTour.com or call the Vancouver Island Visitor Centre 1-855-400-2882. In addition to the Comox Valley Farm Cycle Tour, September has other great bike events including the Steve Smith Memorial Downhill / BC Cup at Mount Washington Bike Park, September 13-15; 40 Seals Bike Tours by Amped Rides; and Island Joy Rides Chef Series. For more information visit DiscoverComoxValley.com. Media Contact Lara Greasley, Manager, Marketing and Communications Comox Valley Economic Development and Tourism 250.334.2427 x 233 or lgreasley@investcomoxvalley.com  

The 12th annual #BCSeafoodFest held in the Comox Valley celebrates the bounty of BC Seafood

Comox Valley, B.C., June 5, 2018 — After 12 years in the making, the next generation of the BC Seafood Festival is opening from June 8th to 17th and is the largest seafood festival in Western Canada. For 10 days, visitors will be able to taste, explore and experience fresh and local BC seafood. This is a ‘must attend’ event for families to seafood lovers everywhere, and a great chance to learn and explore the abundance and variety of BC seafood. Tickets are on-sale for the Signature Weekend which features numerous day events on June 16th and 17th showcasing the biggest line-up of renowned celebrity guest chefs and chef demonstrations, including the new FortisBC Chef Challenge. Savour some of the most fresh and delicious seafood dishes while being able to sample BC wines, spirits and craft beer and enjoy live entertainment. Returning, due to popular demand, are the Fanny Bay Oyster Shucking Competition and the Ocean Wise® Chowder Challenge. A stellar line-up of famed local, domestic and international chefs will be showcasing their talents in cooking demonstrations and chef challenges throughout the weekend. To see if your favourite chef will be participating, go to https://bcseafoodfestival.com/chefs/ for the most up-to-date list. This year’s festival features the largest Kids Interactive Zone ever assembled. Designed to teach children about how seafood is sourced and cooked, there will be touch tanks, interactive displays and seafood cooking classes and – for the first time ever – a visit by the Vancouver Aquarium AquaVan! Several ticketed events have sold out, but tickets to exciting new and popular returning events are still available including: Chef’s Shellfish Showdown, June 8th. Indulge in an evening of culinary adventure as four renowned chef’s battle to prepare your favourite dish.  Enjoy a gala of 8 courses while listening to the sweet sounds of Easy Street and sipping 40 Knots clean crisp wines. Chefs include: Chef Alain Chabot, Chef Jonathan Frazier, Chef Laura Agnew, and Chef Ian Bloom. Comox Valley Rocks for Kids, June 9th. Marina Park is the place-to-be for an all-day music festival “Comox Valley Rocks for Kids!”, presented by 98.9 the GOAT radio, in support of Comox Valley Child Development Association. From 2:00 -11:00 pm music-lovers can attend the first-ever Comox Rocks for Kids! concert and experience a lineup of ‘80’s tribute bands including local and BC talent. ‘ During the Signature Weekend, June 15 –17th, tickets are still available for: Ceviche! Ceviche! Ceviche! June 16th. Mix together two of the world’s top international seafood chefs, with BC seafood, and this MasterClass . Mark Best, Bistro by Mark Best Australia, and Jose Duarte, Taranta, Boston, will share their expertise and tricks of the trade in preparing an incredible seafood Ceviche, and provide attendees tasting samples of their delicious creations MasterClass tickets include a BC Seafood Festival Signature Weekend Pass. Baked n’ Boiled! Kitchen Party, June 16th. East-coast meets Westcoast at the seafood boil featuring Mac’s Oysters Ltd. clams prepared by Culinary Team BC, tastings by Shelter Point Distillery and musical entertainment by The Whiskeydicks, the Celtic gypsy party rockers. Guests also receive access to the LIVE in Filberg Park concert on-site following the dinner featuring Enter The Haggis with special guests Rockcod, presented by the Filberg Heritage Lodge & Park Association. More culinary celebrations are featured throughout week at local producers, restaurants or distilleries, as well as other tours including: Wildlife Tour, Snorkel with Seals and Oyster Farm Cruise tours. Ticket and Information Sales: BC Seafood Festival Signature Weekend pass ticket sales are now open and available at BCSeafoodFestival.com. For more information about the Comox Valley, accommodation, chefs, events and tours and the BC Seafood Festival go to BCSeafoodFestival.com or call the Vancouver Island Visitors Center 1-855-400-2882. Join the conversation at #BCSeafoodFest. About the Comox Valley Located midway on the east coast of Vancouver Island, the Comox Valley is well known for its culinary bounty from the farms and sea to table. Rich with festivals and sporting events, stunning alpine to ocean resorts and spas, this region is a place of super natural beauty that offers lush culinary, cultural and outdoor experiences. It is comprised of the communities of Comox, Courtenay and surrounding rural areas in the Comox Valley Regional District. Visit www.discovercomoxvalley.com.

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Media Contact: Lara Greasley, Manager, Marketing and Communications Comox Valley Economic Development and Tourism 250-702-1298 or lgreasley@investcomoxvalley.com