April 16, 2026

NEWS RELEASE

OAKVILLE – As Canada celebrates National Tourism Week (April 20-24), Visit Oakville is inviting residents and visitors to join in the celebration and explore everything the town has to offer. This year’s theme, “Canada: Powered by Tourism,” highlights the industry’s vital role in strengthening communities, supporting local businesses and driving economic growth across Canada and here in Oakville.  Tourism is a cornerstone of Canada’s economy, supporting one in every 10 jobs nationwide and generating more than $130 billion in annual tourism revenue. In Oakville and the surrounding Hamilton, Halton and Brant tourism region, the impact is also significant—welcoming more than 7.7 million visitors annually and generating over $704 million in visitor spending that supports local businesses, restaurants, attractions and accommodations. 

“National Tourism Week is an opportunity to celebrate the people, businesses and experiences that make Oakville such a welcoming destination,” said Rebecca Edgar, Executive Director, Visit Oakville. “From our vibrant waterfront and charming downtown districts to our incredible culinary scene, cultural attractions and sporting events, tourism plays a vital role in showcasing Oakville while supporting local jobs and economic growth. This week is the perfect time to visit and fall in love with Oakville.”

Located on the shores of Lake Ontario between Toronto and Niagara, Oakville welcomes approximately 1.5 million visitors each year, drawn by its scenic parks and trails, thriving arts and culture scene, festivals, and vibrant dining experiences. Tourism also helps drive year-round activity for local businesses and plays an important role in enhancing quality of life for residents.

Oakville Lighthouse
Source: Visit Oakville

Here’s how you can celebrate and explore Oakville during National Tourism Week:

  • Discover Oakville’s Attractions: Visit Oakville Galleries and its current exhibit Les Fleurs du Mal, explore the Oakville Museum, or check out the town’s lively arts and cultural scene at the Oakville Centre for Performing Arts.
  • Dine at Top Restaurants: Enjoy a meal at one of Oakville’s many delicious restaurants, including 7 Enoteca, recently awarded the Bib Gourmand distinction by the prestigious 2025 MICHELIN Guide Toronto & Region.
  • Shop Local: Browse the boutiques of Downtown Oakville, Kerr Village, and Bronte Village for fashion, home decor, and unique Canadian-made products.
  • Explore Green Spaces: Take a waterfront stroll, or enjoy Oakville’s 1,400 hectares of parks, 200 km of trails, and Bronte Creek Provincial Park for an unforgettable outdoor adventure including an 18 hole disc golf course, children’s playground and more.
  • Attend Local Events: Keep track of all the exciting happenings in Oakville by visiting our events page.
  • Invite Friends & Family to Visit: Plan a staycation or encourage family and friends to visit and book one of Oakville’s array of hotel options.
  • Be a Tourist in Your Own Town: Try something new in Oakville – visit a neighbourhood you haven’t explored, check out a new restaurant or attend a local event.
  • Follow Visit Oakville on Social Media: Stay up to date with the latest on Oakville including events, new openings and insider tips by following us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and X (Twitter).

Join Our Exciting Tourism Week Contests!

  • Daily Giveaways: Stay tuned to our Instagram Monday – Friday during Tourism Week for Daily Giveaways! Answer the question for a chance to win exciting prizes from local businesses.

This National Tourism Week, let’s celebrate Oakville’s vibrant tourism sector and show why our town is one of Canada’s must-visit destinations!  For more information and to plan your stay visit: www.visitoakville.com.

About Visit Oakville:

Visit Oakville is an incorporated, not-for-profit, destination marketing organization (DMO). It is led by a volunteer Board of Directors representing the community. Visit Oakville aims to drive economic impact through marketing and partnerships, curating visitor experiences and advocating on behalf of Oakville’s tourism industry.