Toward a theoretical framework of diaspora festivals: concepts and typologies

ABSTRACT

This research aims to conceptualize and categorize diaspora festivals. The study defines diaspora festivals as events organized by diaspora or transnational associations, public organizations, or event organizers with the aim of providing unique experiential benefits to diasporas while offering opportunities for locals and tourists to participate. These festivals depend on support from various stakeholders and the cooperation of the locals for successful execution. The study introduces seven types of diaspora festivals, classified into primary types including transnational, ethnic-migrant, multicultural, and homecoming festivals; and secondary types including host, homeland, and tourist festivals. These typologies have practical implications for various stakeholders, such as migrant sending and receiving countries, event organizers, diasporic individuals, and international organizations. Furthermore, understanding the concept and characteristics of different types of diaspora festivals can contribute to sustainable development goals and the preservation of intangible heritages while providing researchers with a clear framework for further exploration of these festivals.

KEYWORDS:

• Diaspora festival
• typology
• multiculturalism
• diaspora tourism
• acculturation
• social sustainability

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Ermias Kifle Gedecho

Ermias Kifle Gedecho, PhD, is a postdoctoral fellow in the School of Hotel and Tourism Management at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. He is the recipient of the Best PhD Thesis Award 2022/23 from the School of Hotel and Tourism Management, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. He has a wide range of research interests in the field of tourism, event, and hospitality management.