Shape the Future of Tourism in Eastern HRM, Together
The Eastern HRM Rural Tourism Readiness Pilot is a collaborative community-driven initiative, facilitated by Halifax Partnership, to help communities and businesses strengthen tourism capacity and community readiness, and ultimately, local economic growth across Eastern HRM.
Through a series of community engagement sessions and training with rural business owners, local community organizations, and tourism-minded residents, the pilot aims to identify opportunities, build connections, and lay the groundwork for a sustainable, community-driven approach to tourism development.
Eastern HRM Rural Tourism Workshop
The Eastern HRM Rural Tourism Readiness Pilot is offering a free hands-on tourism workshop and training series focused on building practical, place-based tourism experiences.
2 Day In-Person Workshop & Training:
📍 Petpeswick Yacht Club
📅 February 18–19
🕘 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Program Overview
This two-day, in-person workshop is part of a broader training pathway that combines inspiration, practical tools, and real-world application—grounded in the realities of rural communities and focused on what is realistic, sustainable, and worth pursuing.
Meet the Speakers


Dr. Peter Vlachos, PhD - Keynote Speaker
Dr. Vlachos is a leading researcher and thought leader in rural and regional tourism development, bringing international and Canadian marketing perspectives on visitor demand, destination readiness, and long-term economic opportunity in rural communities. His expertise intersects the tourism, hospitality, and creative/cultural industries.
Celes Davar – Guest Presenter, Experience Design
Celes Davar is an experience design practitioner and founder of FoodArtNature, specializing in place-based, regenerative tourism experiences that connect food, culture, nature, and community into market-ready offerings.