Do special events matter? The case of exhibitions

Abstract

Researchers are showing lately an increased interest toward the special event tourist niche, mostly due to the growth in demand for manifestations such as exhibitions, festivals and other historical and cultural displays. Besides meeting demand, special events are organized having in mind many other outcomes, one of them being their economic impact. Indeed, they may lead to an influx of funds in the area that in turn leads to increased sales, therefore to an increase in income and to the creation of new jobs. It is important that this type of events is analyzed allowing for better allocation of resources as well as for better planning of future similar events. Furthermore, estimating the event's possible economic impact in the planning phase could also lead to a much higher efficiency hence a more successful event. This study analyzes two of the most successful special events organized in Mississippi that attracted over 500,000 and 300,000 visitors. The study presents interesting findings related to patron profile as well as to their potential economic impact suggesting that such events may indeed lead to a significant increase in economic activity.

Citation

Nica, M. and Swaidan, Z. (2004), "Do special events matter? The case of exhibitions", Tourism Review, Vol. 59 No. 2, pp. 6-11. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb058430