Victoria’s Inner Harbour was the vibrant epicenter of hockey excitement from January 17th to 20th as Hockey Day in Canada descended upon the city.
When the major event was awarded to Victoria, those behind the push for the three-day event didn’t expect it to generate as much money as it did.
According to the Destination International Economic Impact Report from the Greater Victoria Sport Tourism Commission, the event delivered a significant economic boost to the region, tallying nearly $4 million in economic activity.
The numbers speak volumes: the event not only generated revenue but also contributed to job creation and tax revenue. With 2,369 jobs supported and $627,025 in taxes generated, the impact rippled through the local economy.
“We knew that Greater Victoria really came together for a super successful celebration of hockey and community, but these numbers show that hosting events like this benefit everyone,” said Victoria Hockey Legacy Society chair John Wilson.
“I’m thankful for the Greater Victoria Sport Tourism Commission for crunching the numbers, and excited to see how our destination continues to benefit from the excellent exposure we received on Sportsnet.”
The event drew impressive crowds, with upwards of 20,000 people flocking to Ship Point during the main festivities. The Alumni Game at Save-on-Foods Memorial Centre was a sell-out success, while the Gala Banquet at the Victoria Conference Centre attracted a full house.
Related:
- 23 captures of Hockey Day in Canada celebrations at Ship Point on Saturday (PHOTOS)
- Victoria Royals will play back-to-back games for Hockey Day in Canada this weekend
- Stanley Cup makes its way across Greater Victoria before stopping at Ship Point this weekend (PHOTOS)
The reach extended far beyond the local landscape, with Sportsnet’s 13-hour broadcast capturing the attention of 8.5 million Canadians nationwide.
The Inner Harbour served as the picturesque backdrop for the broadcast aired across the nation, featuring esteemed hosts like Ron MacLean, Jennifer Botterill, and Kevin Bieksa.
“There is a power in sports that goes far beyond the confines of an arena or playing field,” Sport Tourism Commission Executive Director Keith Wells said. “We’re always working on opportunities for sport to add vitality to our region, and the commission looks forward to working with John and the Victoria Hockey Legacy Society on future endeavors.”
According to organizers, Scotiabank Hockey Day in Canada focused on making sure everyone felt welcomed celebrating Canada’s sport.
Proceeds from the event helped the Courtnall Society for Mental Health, which promotes understanding of mental health through awareness and educatio
