Third International Conference on Tourism & Leisure Studies

Abstract

Festivals are binding bridges between communities, residents, and tourism destinations. Collective perceptions and experiences lived through a festival in a certain city generate knowledge. Therefore, festivals demonstrate local themes and city identity, defined as place icons which contribute to audience memories and experiences that make the place unique in their memories and urge guests to come and visit again. In the global tourism industry with cities competing for tourists, festivals are often placed among the first dynamics of competition. Certain cities sell their festivals through social media in a most competitive ways. Many tourists seek the festivals and buy their tickets a head of time. It is a win-win situation. Both the end user and the city stakeholders win. Perhaps hoteliers, travel agents, and airlines gain both the experience and capital. Izmir’s culture, art, and festivals may affect the city’s identity. This study explores five unique questions. Can a city festival be performed in a central place where everyone can attend easily? Is the weather suitable for the festival? Are the musicians happy with the marketing? Are the musicians satisfied and will they tell their colleagues to attend Izmir Festival? Is there a potential for negative social impacts to result from hosting a festival sitting area? With perceptions of audiences and artists answers the social capital income of the city and artists will increase. Sustainable tourism efforts will increase rapidly.