By Michael Baginski/ Visit Orlando and a dozen of its top theme park, attraction, hotel and transportation partners delivered a dose of Orlando sunshine to Hamilton and Toronto last week for the destination’s annual Canada trade mission, demonstrating that the destination has “not taken it’s foot off the pedal” when it comes to the Canadian market.
“We recognize this year has been challenging and truly appreciate our trade partners’ ongoing support in inspiring Canadians who are interested in visiting Orlando,” said Visit Orlando VP of Sales Elaine Blazys. Canada remains our largest international market and a key contributor to our destination’s success and we have not pulled back on our marketing and publicity efforts.”
Noting that VO has had to “pivot” a little in its marketing efforts due to reflect the ongoing cross border tensions, she noted to a small VIP trade gathering that this year’s mission boasted its largest list of participants, including:
- Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin + Swan Reserve
- Orlando World Center Marriott
- Marriott Village Orlando
- United Parks & Resorts (SeaWorld)
- Brightline
- Universal Orlando Resort
- Orlando International Airport
- Walt Disney World Resort
- Evermore Orlando Resort
- Vacatia Group – The Berkly Orlando
- Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
- Renaissance Orlando Resort Disney Springs
And that response merely emphasized her assertion that “we are 100% in the market.”
That includes having launched the fall ‘Unbelievably Real’ campaign in Ontario and Quebec to drive travel demand through early 2026. The campaign uses national and regional TV, digital display, online video, paid social and search marketing.
The campaign also includes the welcoming social initiative ‘Love Always, Orlando,’ inviting Canadian visitors back to the destination they “know and love.”
Over the course of the week-long mission, event In Hamilton and Toronto for the trade saw close to 200 agents experience interactive presentations and fresh product demos, as well have an opportunity to win trip giveaways to the destination.
Holiday festivals
Meanwhile, here are some holiday season highlights during December:
- Lake Nona’s Oh, What Fun! street party bringing snowfalls, live music, and a bustling market on weekends through Dec. 22.
- Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Walt Disney World gives national outlets access to rare visuals like Main Street USA “snowfall” and exclusive parades and fireworks (through Dec. 21).
- Dive into holiday magic at Universal Orlando Resort’s Grinchmas and Holiday Parade, plus illuminated wizardry at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, all included with park admission.
- ICE! at Gaylord Palms delivers theme-based, walk-through ice sculpture attractions, ideal for the family.
- For a cooler twist, Icebar Orlando is the world’s largest permanent ice bar featuring over 70 tons of ice on International Drive, hosting the festive Ice Masquerade Ball on New Year’s Eve.
- January’s Orlando Fringe Winter Mini-Fest keeps the cultural spirit alive with indie theatre, music, storytelling, and stand-up performances, ideal for a fresh post-holiday inspiration.
If this article was shared with you by a friend or colleague, you may enjoy receiving your own copy of Travel Industry Today with the latest travel news and reviews each weekday morning. It’s absolutely free – just CLICK HERE.