Latest news with #DiscoverSaskatoon
CTV News
14 hours ago
- Entertainment
- CTV News
YXE Urban Games showcases sports, art, and culture in Saskatoon
More than 1,000 athletes and over 100 artists are gathering in Saskatoon this weekend for the YXE Urban Games, a three-day celebration of sport, creativity, and culture. Now in its second year, the event at Victoria Park features 13 urban sports including pickleball, disc golf, dodgeball and parkour. Stephanie Clovechok, CEO of Discover Saskatoon, says the event gives people a chance to learn about and try new sports. 'Some of these urban sports are not common and not known to people,' Clovechok said. 'So, we're really giving opportunities for people to get their hands on an ultimate Frisbee, or to try out spikeball or dodgeball.' YXE Urban Games also includes live music and dance performances, along with interactive art installations. 'Even all of our art installations include a component where people can create,' said Carrie Catherine, art-culture lead for the event. One interactive art installation is a graffiti station where people can spray-paint a van. The festival site features a beer garden, a family area, food trucks and a large stage showcasing local performers. 'We've got some amazing local artists who get to be on that stage and utilize it,' Catherine said. In the weeks leading up to the games, 60 underprivileged youth took part in a seven-week mentorship program where they were introduced to various urban sports and art forms. Their artwork is now on display. 'That's something we're really proud of,' said Clovechok. 'Those kids now have somewhere and something to belong to that they didn't before.' Clovechok says the event is drawing both Saskatoon residents and visitors, providing a boost to the local economy.'We're seeing those folks eating in our restaurants and visiting here, learning to connect with our destination,' she said. The event runs July 18 to 20.
CTV News
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- CTV News
Saskatoon to host 2026 Canadian Country Music Awards
Those in Saskatoon will be reaching for their cowboy boots next September, thanks to a recent announcement that the city will be hosting the 2026 Canadian Country Music Awards. 'There are all the important pieces around the economic benefits for hotels and restaurants and shops, and the way that we will be able to inspire another generation of country music artists in our city, and connecting those superstars nationally with our local talent,' Saskatoon Mayor Cynthia Block said. This announcement comes after the city placed a $500,000 bid to host the event back in January. An exact date has yet to be announced, but officials did share that the city will also be hosting Canadian Country Music Week ahead of the event. CEO of Discover Saskatoon, Steph Clovchok, said the week will be full of programming intended to highlight local businesses. 'We're also going to see our venues shine. We're going to have ten of our local venues animated for this event. And so that's really an opportunity for the community to showcase how excellent we truly are,' Clovchok said. This is the third time Saskatoon has hosted the event, most recently in 2017. Block said the city has changed a lot since that time. 'We've added the equivalent of several Moose Jaws to be able to host the world in a different way. As Saskatoon is growing into a modern city, we are excited to be able to show our country and the world how we're growing up as a city and what makes us uniquely special,' Block said.
Global News
25-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Global News
Saskatoon to host Country Music Week, CCMAs in 2026
Saskatoon is gearing up to host Country Music Week and the Canadian Country Music Awards (CCMAs) in September 2026. The event is expected to attract over 16,000 visitors and generate more than $9 million in economic impact. 'This is a moment to celebrate, not just because we'll be welcoming some of the country's most talented country music artists, but because it puts our city on a national stage,' said Saskatoon Mayor Cynthia Block. This will be the third time Saskatoon has played host to the CCMAs, having previously held the event in 2012 and 2017. Get daily National news Get the day's top news, political, economic, and current affairs headlines, delivered to your inbox once a day. Sign up for daily National newsletter Sign Up By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy 'We're ready to do it bigger, louder and more unforgettable than ever,' said Stephanie Clovechok, CEO of Discover Saskatoon. The week-long festivities will feature a mix of performances and opportunities for local talent to shine. Story continues below advertisement 'Saskatoon has a rich, diverse music scene, and this is the perfect opportunity to showcase that to a national audience,' said Clovechok. 'The intimate opportunities to connect with national and global talent right here at home in Saskatoon is such an incredible opportunity.' To add a personal touch to the announcement, Saskatchewan-born country star Jess Moskaluke began with an intimate performance. 'I am so proud to be able to show this place off,' she shared. 'And more importantly, I'm so proud to be like, hey, look at the fans. They are so much better here. They're loud and lively and proud and excited,' she added. The lineup has not yet been announced. However, Clovechok stated that the artists revealed during this year's CCMAs in Kelowna will closely resemble those expected for the 2026 award show in Saskatoon. 'Whether you're a long-time country music fan or someone who's about to fall in love with it, we've saved you a seat in Saskatoon,' Clovechok invited.
Globe and Mail
31-05-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Tips and deals to help maximize your summer vacation dollars
Travel has become more expensive in recent years, with increased costs for airfare, hotels, and dining. However, don't let that deter you from exploring. Regardless of your destination, booking early and choosing off-season travel are effective strategies to save money. If you want to stretch your budget further, try these tactics that can help maximize vacation dollars. The insiders' guide: Where to go in Europe to avoid the crowds Although travelling within Canada can be notoriously expensive, some recent changes may help reduce your overall costs. Porter Airlines expanded its network and now flies across the country. Both Air Canada and WestJet have also increased their domestic routes as they've scaled back some flights to the United States. As a result, lower fares have been available. Additionally, the federal government recently announced a Canada Strong Pass, which allows those under the age of 18 to get free access to art galleries, national parks, museums and free seats on VIA Rail when travelling with their parents. While specific details are yet to be announced, this initiative could offer a valuable opportunity to cut costs. When planning your travel, make sure to check the local tourism website since they often have exclusive deals or passes. Stephanie Clovechok, chief executive officer of Discover Saskatoon, said her group's website helps direct those planning their itineraries to a range of services and deals. 'Our offers and packages page connects travellers directly with hotel promotions and seasonal experiences developed in partnership with our hospitality and tourism members,' she said. In B.C. there's Whistler's offer of up to 25 per cent off and a complimentary $100 activity voucher on stays of three nights or more, or up to 30 per cent off and a $200 voucher on stays of at least five nights. Those headed to Nova Scotia may be interested in the Halifax Experience Pass and the Nova Scotia Museum Pass. Both give you access to some top attractions at one low price. When you bundle your flights, hotel and airport transfers together as a vacation package, it's often significantly cheaper than booking everything separately. That said, major resorts such as Sandals and Grand Velas often have seasonal sales, so booking separately might make sense. Working with a travel agent can also be beneficial since many don't charge a fee and offer practical advice. 'For flexible travellers, we can help them find the best days to depart to maximize savings,' travel adviser Jennifer Zabloski said. 'Sometimes leaving the day before or after your desired date can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.' She points out that online photos and reviews of resorts are frequently misleading, so collaborating with an adviser who has visited the properties and knows the location well can ensure you're getting the best fit for your needs. Another sun destination with deals right now is Bermuda, where visitors can get up to 30 per cent off hotel stays, and 20 per cent off air and hotel with BermudAir Holidays. If you're headed to Europe for the first time, it will be tempting to visit major destinations such as Paris, Rome and London, however, those cities tend to be the most expensive. Instead, consider more budget-friendly destinations such as Portugal, Poland, Romania or Bulgaria, where costs could be considerably cheaper. When it comes to flights, choosing an airline that provides a stopover program, such as Icelandair, Emirates, Turkish Airlines and TAP Portugal, can be a cost-effective way to visit multiple countries. Stopover programs allow travellers to break up their journey – usually by at least 24 hours - and visit cities that are en route to their ultimate destination. Google Flights and are excellent websites for discovering the lowest prices and best routes. Many European cities, such as Amsterdam, Vienna and Berlin, offer a museum pass that can save you money, depending on how many attractions you plan to visit. 'Regardless of what loyalty points you collect, using them for long-haul travel often makes sense because it'll immediately reduce the cost of your flights or hotels – typically your largest expense,' said Sash Bhavsar, co-founder of a consultancy firm that frequent flyers hire to help them maximize their points. Don't overlook local hotel brands abroad, like Tokyu Stay and APA in Japan. They're often more affordable and offer a more authentic experience than large international chains, Mr. Bhavsar noted. If possible, opt for a regional or smaller international airport instead of the main one at your destination to save on airport landing fees and taxes that are often reflected in ticket prices. Secondary airport hubs charge airlines less, so if visiting Bangkok, Thailand, see if you can land at Don Mueang International (DMK) instead of Suvarnabhumi (BKK). And in Buenos Aires, for example, aim for Aeroparque Internacional Jorge Newbery (AEP) rather than Ezeiza (EZE). Many seasoned cruisers turn to as a starting point for trip research. While it may not be the most user-friendly website, its filtering system is arguably the best because it allows travellers to browse cruise deals by departure date, ports, cruise lines and trip duration. Once you've found what you're looking for, contact the cruise line and book directly for the best price. 'Most cruise lines offer seasonal promotions, including discounted fares, onboard credits and special deals like free passage for third and fourth guests,' Lisa Huizing, a vacation consultant with Expedia Cruises, said. Planning ahead and prepaying for add-ons such as beverage packages, Wi-Fi, airport transfers, excursions and gratuities can also help, Huizing added. No one wants an unexpected charge at the end of their voyage, so securing these extras in advance can ensure a more enjoyable experience. When booking, ask about all-inclusive packages that bundle these extras at a reduced price. Barry Choi is a personal finance and travel expert. He was previously affiliated with Air Canada and WestJet, but currently has no relationship with any of the brands mentioned.
