When Travel Writers Came to Town: Saskatoon’s TMAC Takeover

Posted By Discover Saskatoon , January 19, 2026

In June 2025, Saskatoon proudly welcomed 175 delegates from across the country for the annual TMAC Conference and Media Marketplace, a standout moment for a city known for its signature prairie hospitality. What unfolded was far more than a professional event, it was an opportunity for Saskatoon to shine on a national stage.

The TMAC Conference brings together members of the Travel Media Association of Canada each year, gathering travel content creators and tourism professionals from coast to coast. Over four days, attendees took part in marketplace appointments, professional development sessions, evening showcases, and curated local tours. All designed to immerse them in the stories, flavours, and culture of the host destination. This year, Saskatoon delivered in a big way.

A Taste of Saskatoon

Delegates were treated to an impressive lineup of culinary experiences thanks to partnerships with local restaurants including Odla, Calories, Sulu, Hearth, Pique, Little Grouse on the Prairie, St Tropez Bistro, Odd Couple, Primal, Pop, and Loqui. Each restaurant crafted a meal that celebrated the unique flavours of its kitchen, giving visitors a delicious way to connect with the city.

Exploring Local Stories & Spaces

Beyond the plate, Saskatoon showcased the depth of its cultural and outdoor experiences. Delegates joined tours curated in partnership with local icons such as the Remai Modern, Meewasin, Wanuskewin, Blackfox, Farm One Forty, and The Local Adventure Co. These experiences highlighted everything from world‑class art to prairie landscapes, Indigenous heritage, and hands-on local agriculture.

A Community Effort

Tourism Saskatchewan, Discover Saskatoon, the City of Saskatoon, the Remai Modern, and the Delta Bessborough joined forces to warmly welcome attendees. The conference concluded with a memorable Awards Gala celebrating excellence in travel journalism and storytelling, where Saskatchewan’s own Jodi Holliday was named Industry Representative of the Year!

A Lasting Legacy for the City

Hosting TMAC wasn’t just a four‑day event; it was a milestone moment for Saskatoon. The conference:

Elevated Saskatoon’s profile among Canada’s top travel storytellers.
Strengthened connections between local businesses and national media.
Inspired content creators to share Saskatoon’s stories with audiences far beyond the Prairies.

And the results are already rolling in. High‑quality media coverage about Saskatoon and the surrounding region has begun appearing in major outlets, including:

National Post

8 Canadian destinations you'll want to visit in 2026 and when to go

By Jody Robbins

https://nationalpost.com/travel/best-places-to-visit-in-canada-2026

Canadian Geographic

The Essential Itinerary: Winter in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

By Jenn Smith Nelson

https://canadiangeographic.ca/articles/the-essential-itinerary-winter-in-saskatoon-saskatchewan

YAM Magazine

Where to go Next

By Linda Barnard

https://issuu.com/page-one/docs/yam_magazine_jan_feb_2026/45