Third International Conference on Tourism & Leisure Studies

Abstract

This study comprises a series of strategies based on playful learning as a method for the co-creation of the profile of Pereira´s Cultural Cluster. Through discussions and interactive workshops, the basic profile for the consolidation and future operation of a cluster of cultural industries was established. The methodology involved different actors from the cluster, and resulted in identifying the potential for cultural tourism to enhance the city´s privileged geographic location and rich cultural heritage. The study revealed that focusing only on producing cultural events would be to neglect the main strength that Pereira has when it comes to building a cluster of cultural and creative industries: its infrastructure for tourism. Pereira, axis of the “Paisaje Cultural Cafetero,” with all the history of coffee production farming in its idiosyncrasy, in its roots and traditions, has tourism as an element that supports its identity, founded on this heritage, as well as on its modern industrial capacity. Thus, the city´s Master Plan of Culture aims to build upon the pillar of tourism for the cultural development of the city. Tourism then becomes a framework that encompasses, gathers, welcomes, and disseminates cultural events that have yet to be more frequent in Pereira.