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Tourism Whistler launches event toolkit

Tourism Whistler took additional steps to streamline event hosting in the resort this week with the launch of an online event toolkit, which it is calling a starting point for organizers that want to stage an event in Whistler.

Tourism Whistler took additional steps to streamline event hosting in the resort this week with the launch of an online event toolkit, which it is calling a starting point for organizers that want to stage an event in Whistler.

Event hosting has taken a hit recently with false starts by the Whistler Events Bureau and later by Events Whistler, recognizing the red tape and logistical challenges faced by organizers bringing events to the resort. Given the economic impact of event hosting, including events like Crankworx, Cornucopia and the Whistler Film Festival, Tourism Whistler took it upon itself this year to fix the problem.

The toolkit is available at www.whistler.com/event_toolkit/   and includes contact information, event protocols, a list of available venues and event resources, checklists and suggested timelines. It also has information on how to make an event sustainable.

“The opportunity presented by the 2010 Winter Games is amazing, but we also recognize the importance of smaller, organic events that celebrate the destination and are aligned with Whistler’s brand and values,” said Arlene Schieven, vice president of marketing at Tourism Whistler. “Smaller, grass roots events are typically championed by locals and have usually established some level of community participation. These events are also likely to reflect the values, community passion and products of the resort, and provide a competitive edge over other destinations.”

Carlee Howell, Tourism Whistler’s event manager, pointed out that all of Whistler’s most popular events started small.

“It can be difficult to know where to start when putting on an event,” she said. “This online toolkit helps people decipher what applications need to be filled out, who to contact, and what types of support are available. We wanted to make it easier, so we created what is essentially a one-stop shop for anyone wanting to put on an event in Whistler.”

The list of venues includes indoor and outdoor venues, ranging from public parks to venues within the ski area boundaries. The site also supplies application forms to use village facilities and local parks and fields, event production plans, business licences and special occasion liquor licence applications if applicable.

It also gets into specifics, such as signage that will be allowed and activation regulations for sponsors.