TORONTO — Chants of ‘Go Jays Go’ and ‘Go Dodgers Go’ echoed through Rogers Centre earlier this week as the Toronto Blue Jays marked their sixth straight home loss.
Despite wishing for a better outcome, a lucky group of Toronto fans enjoyed a memorable evening hosted by the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Bureau.
Before the first pitch, LA Tourism hosted a networking event at the downtown Lulu Bar for travel industry partners and media. The event promoted compassion, understanding and a warm welcome, despite Toronto’s chilly spring weather, setting the stage for a sports-focused evening.
Following this momentum, the LA Tourism team continued their mission in Canada, stopping in Montreal this week before returning to Los Angeles.
Speaking with Travelweek at the event, an enthusiastic Melissa Yunk, LA Tourism’s Director of Global Communications, emphasized Canada’s significance as a key market and highlighted Canadians’ deep-rooted affinity for the region.
“From a company perspective, keeping LA present, top of mind, and maintaining relationships is crucial,” Yunk stated, adding, “And we get it. We are ready whenever you are.”
SPORTS CAPITAL OF THE WORLD
With sports in the spotlight, Travelweek posed the obvious question: What brings you to Toronto?
“We chose the Dodgers and Blue Jays game – even if it’s a sore spot after last year,” said Yunk. “It’s a fantastic way to showcase what Los Angeles has to offer in terms of sports and entertainment. It’s another way to connect both our cities.”
Building on this connection, an Expedia survey recently indicated that 2026 will be a strong year for ‘Fan Voyage,’ as more people are seeking immersive travel experiences and adventure through sporting events and music. In fact, 57% of respondents reported being more likely to attend a local sporting event while travelling.
Among that group, Gen Z and millennials are leading the charge in pursuing unforgettable sports and music experiences.
Yunk agreed, adding, “This is our sweet spot right now. Being in Los Angeles means there’s a live event happening at iconic venues every day. Offering these experiences, especially during challenging times that are out of our control, keeps Los Angeles relevant and welcoming.”
Looking ahead, LA Tourism is preparing for a series of iconic events, including the FIFA World Cup this summer, running from 11June-19July, the Super Bowl next year, and the Summer Olympics in 2028. They are also aiming for another World Series victory.
“We are the self-proclaimed sports capital of the world. That will continue to be integral in who we are and how we move forward,” said Yunk.
MORE MUSEUMS THAN NEW YORK
Nancy Jeronimo, Air Canada Vacations_ Tim MacDonell, Elite Sports Tours_ Tanya Butt, Air Canada
From a packed concert calendar to a vibrant performing arts scene and more than 100 museums – outshining every other U.S. city, even New York – there’s no lack of attractions for anyone wanting to dip their toes into the cultural scene, with an endless lineup of cultural experiences to choose from.
“Sports tourism is only the starting point,” says Yunk. “We also have the most dynamic and enviable entertainment industry in the world.”
And, not to be discounted, the year-round warmer temperatures are also an added draw, particularly for winter-weary Canadians.
What can travellers look forward to this year?
This September, Los Angeles will unveil its newest not-to-be-missed landmark, the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art. Designed to resemble a spaceship, the museum will feature an outdoor rooftop transformed into a living garden, along with art collections, innovative restaurants, and cutting-edge technology.
This year also marks the expansion of the LA County Museum, set to double its footprint, as well as a wave of new hotel openings. Foodie enthusiasts can celebrate, too, as Los Angeles now boasts two coveted three-star Michelin restaurants: Providence and Somni.
“It’s an exciting time for us, and every part of the city is continuing to grow,” said Yunk. “We’re looking forward to welcoming you to Los Angeles soon.”
More details about travel in Los Angeles is at DiscoverLosAngeles.com.
Lead image caption: LA Tourism’s Melissa Yunk, Director, Global Communications; Tamy Martelli, Regional Director North America; Rofia Larsson, VP, Global Tourism Development (photos credit Annie Cicvaric)
