The Economic and Socio-Cultural Dynamics of Event Tourism: A Comprehensive Analysis of Destination Development and Community Impact

Abstract

Event tourism has emerged as a pivotal component of the contemporary tourism landscape, offering destinations unique opportunities for economic diversification and cultural expression. This study examines the multifaceted relationship between event tourism development and destination competitiveness through a mixed-methods approach, analyzing 15 major event destinations across three continents. The research reveals that successful event tourism strategies require careful balance between economic objectives and community well-being, with particular emphasis on sustainable development practices. Findings indicate that destinations achieving optimal event tourism outcomes demonstrate strong stakeholder collaboration, robust infrastructure development, and authentic cultural integration. The study contributes to the theoretical understanding of event tourism dynamics while providing practical insights for destination managers and policymakers seeking to leverage events for sustainable tourism development.