What Is Special Event Tourism?

By Anna Duncan

Special event tourism is a type of tourism that revolves around events or activities that are not typically found in a destination. These events may include festivals, concerts, sporting events, conferences, and more. The goal of special event tourism is to attract visitors to a destination for the purpose of attending these events and activities.

Why Is Special Event Tourism Important?

Special event tourism can be a significant contributor to the economy of a destination. By attracting visitors to attend events, destinations can generate revenue from ticket sales, lodging, food and beverage sales, transportation services, and more. In addition to generating revenue for local businesses, special event tourism can also create jobs in the hospitality and service industries.

Types of Special Events

There are many different types of special events that can be used to attract tourists to a destination. Some popular examples include:

Festivals

Festivals are cultural celebrations that often involve music, dancing, food, and other activities. They can be held in honor of religious holidays or historical events.

Sporting Events

Sporting events such as marathons or triathlons can also attract visitors to a destination. These events offer participants the opportunity to compete while also exploring a new location.

Conferences

Conferences and trade shows are another type of special event that can bring visitors to a destination. These events often focus on specific industries or topics and provide attendees with opportunities for networking and professional development.

Concerts

Concerts featuring popular musicians or bands can also draw large crowds of visitors to a destination. These events may take place indoors or outdoors depending on the size of the concert.

The Benefits of Special Event Tourism

Special event tourism offers many benefits for both destinations and tourists alike. For tourists, attending special events provides an opportunity to experience new cultures, meet new people, and create lasting memories. For destinations, special event tourism can help to boost the local economy and create jobs in the hospitality and service industries.

  • Increased Revenue: Special event tourism can bring in significant revenue for a destination through ticket sales, lodging, food and beverage sales, transportation services, and more.
  • Job Creation: Special event tourism can create jobs in the hospitality and service industries.
  • Cultural Exchange: Special events provide an opportunity for tourists to experience new cultures and customs.
  • Community Development: Hosting special events can help to build a sense of community among local residents.

Conclusion

Special event tourism is an important aspect of the tourism industry that offers many benefits for both destinations and tourists alike. By attracting visitors to attend events such as festivals, concerts, sporting events, and conferences, destinations can generate revenue for local businesses while also creating jobs in the hospitality and service industries. Additionally, special events provide an opportunity for tourists to experience new cultures and customs while also creating a sense of community among local residents.