Visitor spending in Regina jumps 24 per cent, on track to surpass pre-pandemic levels

Last year brought in the most visitor dollars to Regina since before the pandemic.

Data from Tourism Regina shows that visitor spending increased by 24 per cent between January and October in 2024, compared to the same time frame in 2023.

Tourism Regina also said visitor spending is projected to surpass $625 million in 2024, which would exceed pre-pandemic levels for the first time since 2020.

Sandra Jackle, president and CEO of Regina Hotel Association, said the city’s hotel industry has seen a slight increase in its occupancy rate as well.

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“The 24 per cent increase in visitor spending is, I think, a testament to Regina’s growing appeal as a travel destination,” she said.

“I think this milestone reflects the hard work of our hotels and our tourism partners and really the entire community to create a welcoming city and welcome all the events that are coming to town.”

According to Tourism Regina, occupancy for Regina’s hotels rose to 56 per cent in 2024, up from 54 per cent in 2023. Pre-pandemic levels were at 57 per cent.

Jackle said events like Montana’s Brier, the Queen City Marathon and Canadian Western Agribition not only boost hotel stays, but also have ripple effects throughout Regina as a whole.

Jackle also expressed excitement for upcoming events like the Vanier Cup, Skills Canada Competition and the CFL Combine, which are all scheduled to be hosted in Regina.

“Regina is solidifying its position as a leading event destination in Western Canada,” she said.

Jackle said the Vanier Cup is expected to bring at least $2 million in economic impact, based on past events in Canada.

“We’ve got tons of events. We’ve got the Five-pin Open bowling national championships. We’ve got Baseball Canada senior national championships, (and) canoe, kayak, sprint championships,” Jackle said.

“…There are a lot of events that are that are going to be coming to Regina in 2025 which is excellent.”

Jackle said the increased occupancy doesn’t usually result in increased staffing for hotels.

She said hotel occupancy usually sees peaks and valleys throughout the year depending on when events occur.

Read more:

• Province announces $400,000 in funding for Hospitality Saskatchewan
  Regina welcomes two new visitor information kiosks