City opens Lodging Tax Grant applications for 2027 tourism events, festivals and programs

July 29, 2026

People enjoying an outdoor concert.
Attendees enjoy a performance at the 2025 Vancouver Arts and Music Festival.

The City’s Lodging Tax Advisory Committee will accept grant applications for 2027 tourism-related projects and events from Aug. 4 to Sept. 20.

Grants are available for local events and festivals, tourism promotion and marketing programs that increase overnight and day-visit tourism.  Lodging Tax Grants are funded through a four percent lodging tax on hotel, motel, and bed and breakfast stays.

“These grants bring enlivening experiences to Vancouver, from festivals to community-driven tourism programs,” said Deputy Economic Development Director Chris Harder. “We’re eager to support projects that reflect our values, extend the season, and welcome visitors to our city.”

The committee will prioritize funding for events that meet one or more of the following criteria:

  • Take place outside the peak summer event season (June–August)
  • Occur outside of downtown Vancouver
  • Support local, small businesses
  • Celebrate diverse or underserved communities
  • Support climate action

Applications will be evaluated based on alignment with the City’s Strategic Plan Core Values, Visit Vancouver’s Destination Master Plan, and other factors including seasonality, geography, equity and inclusion, environmental sustainability, uniqueness and economic impact.

Support for applicants

The City and Visit Vancouver are offering the following resources to assist applicants:

  • Online Q&A session: Optional virtual info session will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19. Email Callie Taylor at Callie.Taylor@cityofvancouver.us to receive a meeting link.
  • One-on-one consultations: Visit Vancouver is offering 30-minute appointments to help event organizers respond to visitor-related questions in the application. Book an appointment with Visit Vancouver.

For details and to apply, visit the City’s Lodging Tax Grant Program webpage.

Media Contacts:

Laura Shepard, director of communications, laura.shepard@cityofvancouver.us

Chris Harder, deputy economic development director, chris.harder@cityofvancouver.us