As summer approaches in Fredericton, businesses are gearing up for an influx of tourists and activity. Fredericton Capital Region Tourism Manager Stacey Russell is optimistic about the upcoming tourism season, with hotels already reporting high room sales and occupancy rates. Events such as the reopening of Officers’ Square for programming, baseball tournaments, and a golf tournament at Mactaquac Provincial Park are expected to draw in visitors. Local businesses like Mangata Mactaquac, which offers cabin rentals near the park, are already seeing bookings from tournament participants. Overall, there is a positive outlook for the summer season in Fredericton.
The tourism sector in Fredericton has seen a significant uptick in activity, with statistics showing that hotel room sales have exceeded pre-pandemic numbers. In 2023, over 385,000 hotel rooms were sold in Fredericton, marking an 8.1 percent increase from the previous year. This growth has been attributed to events and attractions drawing in visitors. For example, the April 8 eclipse brought thousands of people to downtown Fredericton, and hotels have reported a successful spring conference season. General Manager of Delta Hotels by Marriott Fredericton, Sara Holyoke, expressed optimism about the upcoming tourism season and highlighted the contrast with the challenging business climate during the COVID-19 pandemic.
One factor that can impact the success of the summer season in Fredericton is the weather. Holyoke mentioned that weather conditions played a role in the success of previous summers, emphasizing the importance of favorable weather for attracting tourists. Despite this variable, there is a general sense of positivity and anticipation among businesses and tourism operators in Fredericton. The success of the tourism season in the Maritimes has set a positive trend for the upcoming summer, with increased room sales and occupancy rates serving as promising indicators.
Local businesses in Fredericton are gearing up for the upcoming summer season, with expectations of increased foot traffic and activity. The reopening of Officers’ Square for programming and various tournaments being held at Mactaquac Provincial Park are anticipated to draw in visitors and contribute to the bustling atmosphere. For businesses like Mangata Mactaquac, located close to the park, the upcoming golf tournament has already resulted in bookings from tournament participants. The positive outlook for the summer season brings hope for economic recovery and increased tourism revenue for the region.
Overall, Fredericton is poised for a successful summer season, with the tourism sector showing signs of growth and recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Businesses in the hospitality sector are reporting high room sales and occupancy rates, indicating a strong start to the tourism season. Events and attractions in the region, such as the April 8 eclipse and upcoming tournaments, are expected to attract visitors and contribute to the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Despite potential challenges such as weather, there is a sense of positivity and optimism among businesses and tourism operators as they prepare for a busy and successful summer season in Fredericton.
