The City of Regina has introduced a new tourism initiative that will provide visitors with prepaid promotional cards to enjoy local dining, shopping, and attractions this summer. Jennifer Johnson, deputy city manager of communications and Tourism Regina, described the program as a "choose your own adventure" campaign for tourists.
At a launch event on Friday, Johnson explained that the cards serve as a physical incentive for visitors to explore Regina's businesses. Unlike previous promotional materials such as lanyards or decals, these cards will be distributed during major conferences and events, offering a more interactive experience.
How the Cards Work
The prepaid cards function similarly to a prepaid credit card, each loaded with a set amount of money. Visitors can use them at any of the 60 participating Regina businesses, including restaurants, retail stores, and popular attractions like the Saskatchewan Science Centre and Conexus Arts Centre. A complete list of participating businesses is available on the Tourism Regina website.
Mark Shmelinski, co-owner of Everyday Kitchen and a program participant, praised the initiative. "I think it's a great way to showcase all the hidden gems and things that our city has to offer," he said. "It's fantastic for small businesses and independent businesses for Tourism Regina to highlight wonderful opportunities for people to explore."
Hotel Partnerships and Economic Impact
The Hotel Saskatchewan has also joined the program, offering the cards to guests who extend their stay by a day or two while attending events in the city. Tourism Regina has allocated up to $25,000 from its marketing budget for the campaign, with a projected economic return of 2.5 times the value of the cards.
In 2025, Regina welcomed over 171,000 visitors to major events, generating an estimated $135 million in economic impact, according to Tourism Regina. The new prepaid card campaign aims to build on this success by encouraging visitors to explore more of what the city has to offer.
For more information, visit TourismRegina.com/Regina-Promo-Card.
