Accommodation & Travel
Where does Pacific Contact take place?
Pacific Contact 2026 will be held on Vancouver Island from October 1-4 for the first time in our 50-year history. We are proud to partner with The Port Theatre, Tourism Nanaimo, and the City of Nanaimo to present the conference on the Snuneymuxw territory. Showcases will take place at the Port Theatre with the conference activities at the Vancouver Island Convention Centre.
See our Venues page for details on locations.
Getting to Nanaimo
There are many options for travelling to and from Nanaimo, whether you are travelling by air, car, ferry or foot ferry. Our travel information includes details on how to get to and around the conference for locals and those from away. Reserve early to enjoy exclusive discounts with hotels, airlines and the Hullo Ferry. Plus, our Schedule at a Glance and venue information are now available.
See our Travel page for more information.
Accommodation
A limited number of rooms and rates are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Delegates are responsible for booking their accommodations.
There are two conference hotels with special rates for delegates. The Courtyard by Marriott Nanaimo (deadline August 30) and the Coast Bastion Hotel (deadline August 31).
See our Hotels page for rates and how to book.
Registration Information
How do I register?
Registration is available on the BC Live website. Early rates are available up to June 30. After June 30, rates increase. Members receive discounted rates. Be sure to register before June 30 for a chance to win a free registration. Those who only want to attend the Spotlight on Marketing professional development on Thursday can register for a one-day pass or pay to attend these sessions.
What does my registration include?
Registered delegates have access to Showcases and Pitch & Performs, Spotlight on Marketing professional development, workshops and panels, network meetings, Contact Room (trade show), the Welcome Reception & Snuneymuxw Welcome, refreshment breaks and late-night hospitality, as well as the Closing Party, Dinner & Awards Ceremony. Delegates also receive a conference program and access to the delegate list.
What meals are included with registration?
This year, the Opening Reception on Thursday, lunch on Friday, and the Closing Dinner & Party on Saturday are included with your registration! We’re offering a pay-what-you-can / sliding-scale to offset costs. Be sure to register early, as space is limited.
On Friday evening, you’ll have an opportunity to dine with colleagues at the restaurant of your choosing during our dine-arounds event – a perfect chance to indulge in exceptional cuisine and engage in lively conversation. Our sign-up for the dine arounds will begin in early September, so keep an eye on your inbox to ensure you don’t miss out.
Is there a deadline for requesting a refund if I register and am unable to attend?
All refunds are subject to a $50 administrative fee. A full refund of the registration fee (minus a $50 administrative charge) will be available until September 25, 2026. Starting September 25, 2026 50% of the registration fee will be refunded. Beginning October 1, 2026 no refunds will be made. By registering for the conference, you agree to this policy regardless of the payment method.
Will you confirm my registration?
You will receive a payment receipt after you register.
Do I need to register for workshops or meetings before the conference?
We will ask delegates to complete a form indicating which workshops, meetings, and other professional development sessions they plan to attend. The form, which will be available and sent to registered delegates starting in August, will help us better prepare.
Where do I register when I arrive at the conference?
Registered delegates should go to the Registration Desk in the Newcastle Island Lobby at the Vancouver Island Convention Centre to pick up a conference package and badge.
What will my conference package include?
Registered delegates receive a conference package. This package includes a badge with name and organization, the Pacific Contact printed program with a schedule, showcase artists’ descriptions, and other conference information, as well as a list of delegates.
About the Contact Room
Where is the Contact Room?
The Contact Room is located in the Mount Benson Ballroom outside of Newcastle Island Lobby on the Upper Level. This is also where you register, so be sure to register before you set up your booth. Details, including the Contact Room set-up/strike and schedule, can be found on our Contact Room page.
About Showcases
Where do Showcases take place?
Showcases take place at the Port Theatre, while Pitch & Performs (Short 5s) take place in the Shaw Auditorium at the Vancouver Island Convention Centre.
Delegates must wear their conference badges to access all events, including the showcases at the theatre, Convention Centre and in the Contact Room.