2:00PM - 4:00PM

Workshops (Pre-Registration Required)
 

Private Label, Custom Spirits for Hotels

Check in: Westin Ottawa Lobby

Location: Fairmont Château Laurier, Zoe's Bar & Lounge

Indulge in an exclusive and immersive tasting experience, artfully curated in collaboration with the iconic Fairmont Château Laurier and the esteemed Dunrobin Distilleries. Savor the elegance of Dunrobin’s signature spirits—each a testament to refined craftsmanship and distinguished character. Delight in the sophistication of Émilie Vodka, the botanical grace of Lady Zoe’s Gin, and the bold, commanding presence of Lion’s Roar Whisky paired with some canapes.

Set within the grandeur of Fairmont Château Laurier, this bespoke experience invites you to journey through a symphony of aromas, and flavors. Keynote introduction by Mr. Patric Vincelette, Director of Rooms and Ms. Genevieve Dumas, General Manager of Fairmont Chateau Laurier, followed by a tasting led by Adam Malmberg of Dunrobin Distilleries and Karan Dhaliwal, General Manager, Zoe's Bar & Restaurant.

New Developments in Ottawa

Check in: Westin Ottawa Lobby

Location: Lansdowne Park

Lansdowne Park is a world-class attraction blending sporting venues, retail, restaurants, courtyards, heritage buildings, and public open space. Tour this entertainment district, situated in the heart of Ottawa. Learn about the evolution of Lansdowne Park and the City's redevelopment plans for the site, which include a new Event Centre, new Stadium Stands, and two new mixed-use towers and retail podium.

Other info:

This activity is an accessible one

Walking shoes, water and sunscreen are recommended

Hotel Sustainability Tour

Check in: Westin Ottawa Lobby

Location: Le Germain Hotel

Lace up your walking shoes and take a tour of hotels showcasing best practices for eco-friendly hospitality. Led by Green Key Global, visit certified properties, ask questions, and learn from sustainability experts.

5:30PM - 7:00PM

Welcome Reception 
Location: Governor General Ballroom

7:30PM

Nightlife Economy Walking Tour (Pre-Registration Required)
Location: Off-site 

Meet in the lobby of the Westin Ottawa

Following the reception, join us for an evening walking tour with Ottawa's new Nightlife Commissioner (aka the “night mayor”) to discuss opportunities for growing the nighttime economy, destination development, and conclude with a creative cocktail.

HAC Conference Host

7:00AM 

2K Walk

5k Run

10K Bike Ride

(Free)

Location: The Westin Ottawa Lobby

8:00AM

Delegate Registration & Badge Pick-up

Location: Confederation Ballroom Foyer

8:00AM – 8:45AM

Networking Breakfast & Tradeshow

Location: Confederation Ballroom Foyer

8:45AM – 9:15AM

HAC Opening Remarks

Location: Confederation Ballroom

9:15AM – 9:50AM

Hotel Speed Stats

Location: Confederation Ballroom

Get up to speed with the key numbers shaping our industry. In this fast-paced session, we’ll deliver a high-level overview of the essential stats and indicators that every member needs to know. From the latest trends in visitor arrivals to revenue benchmarks and other crucial metrics, this session is all about the data that drives our decisions. 

10:00AM –10:45AM

Thriving in Uncertainty: Navigating Political and Economic Impacts on the Hospitality Industry 

Location: Confederation Ballroom

Join us for a dynamic panel discussion on the current political, economic, and geopolitical landscape and its impact on the hospitality industry. Our experts will provide insights into the recent developments, economic trends, and global dynamics, offering strategies for navigating challenges and seizing opportunities. 

10:45AM – 11:15AM

Networking Coffee Break & Tradeshow

Location: Confederation Ballroom Foyer

11:15AM – 12:00PM

Breakout Sessions

Industry Stats Deep Dive: From Numbers to Strategy

Location: Confederation Ballroom

Take a deeper look at the data shaping our industry with the panelists from Speed Stats. This session dives into the key metrics, trends, and forecasts affecting the tourism sector, with time for strategic discussions on how to turn the numbers into opportunities.

Sustainability – Saving Through Efficiency

Location: Provinces 1

Explore how smart, sustainable hotel practices are saving dollars and the planet. 

12:00 PM – 1:30PM

Networking Lunch & Tradeshow

Location: Confederation Ballroom Foyer

1:30PM – 2:00PM

CEO Quickfire - The Strategy Edition

Location: Confederation Ballroom

Join industry leaders for a quick-fire session on strategy, trends, and long-term planning in this era of uncertainty. Of course, there will still be some skill – and humour – testing questions and a new winner crowned!

2:00PM – 2:45PM

Breakout Sessions

Bridging Borders: US Market Insights and Strategy

Location: Confederation Ballroom

Join leaders from Destination Marketing Organizations across Canada as they explore the challenges and opportunities coming from Canada’s largest international visitor market – the United States. With changing trade dynamics, gain valuable insights into their strategies for managing this key relationship.

Winning the Talent War: Branding & Strategies for Employers

Location: Provinces 1

Learn from top marketing and workforce experts how to position your organization as a sought-after employer. This session is paced with actionable tips and creative strategies you can use to attract top talent – starting with your very next hire.

2:45PM - 3:15PM

Networking Coffee Break & Tradeshow

Location: Confederation Ballroom Foyer

3:15PM - 4:00PM

Closing Keynote

Location: Confederation Ballroom

4:00PM - 4:10PM

Closing Remarks

Location: Confederation Ballroom