Women in Tourism – Fall 2025 Edition

By james

August 20, 2025

Damenfest: Women in Tourism Networking Breakfast

Explorers’ Edge is proud to support the Fall 2025 edition of Women in Tourism, led by Norah Fountain and the team at the Muskoka Lakes Chamber of Commerce. This special edition is themed in alignment with Muskoka’s Oktoberfest celebrations and proudly supported through the Explorers’ Edge partnership portfolio.

Enjoy a lively breakfast, meaningful networking, and a panel discussion on Fueling Tourism and Community Growth, followed by the Tapping of the Keg Ceremony to kick off Oktoberfest weekend. This is the perfect opportunity to connect with peers, gain fresh insights, and celebrate the women shaping the future of tourism.

Date: Thursday, October 23, 2025
Time: 7:30am – 10:00am
Location: Quality Inn, 300 Ecclestone Drive, Bracebridge

CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT ON EVENTBRITE

Event Highlights

Start your day with a networking breakfast designed to connect women in tourism, spark conversation, and fuel collaboration.

At 9:00am, the main stage program will feature opening remarks, sponsor recognition, and a dynamic panel discussion on Fueling Tourism and Community Growth.

Panel Speakers

Moderator: Norah Fountain, Executive Director, Muskoka Lakes Chamber of Commerce
Panelist: Tracy Van Kalsbeek, Executive Director, Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest
Panelist: Grace Sammut, Former Executive Director, Resorts Ontario
Panelist: Liz Beatty, Travel Podcaster, Broadcaster, Host & Executive Producer of Can Geo Travel’s Here & There, Owner of Black Cabin Studios

This 40-minute conversation will explore opportunities, challenges, and strategies for growing tourism while strengthening the communities we live and work in.

Special Oktoberfest Kickoff

Following the panel, all guests are invited to join in the Tapping of the Keg Ceremony at 10:00am, officially launching Muskoka’s Oktoberfest weekend. Local mayors will be on hand for this community celebration—free and open to the public.