Economic viability of heritage festivals in Wickenburg, Arizona (USA)

Abstract

This study assesses economic impact of two festivals on a rural town (Wickenburg) in the State of Arizona in the USA. It also examines social and environmental impacts of the two festivals to determine if festivals produce viable economic benefits for the town. Limited studies have, to date, taken into account social and environmental perspectives in economic impact analyses. The results of this study show that heritage festivals bring socio-economic benefits to the host community. However, in terms of environmental impacts, mixed views of local residents and stakeholders are noted. Collaborative efforts among stakeholders to design appropriate ecological measures are needed to make the festivals economically viable in the long run.

Keywords:

• Heritage festivals
• economic impact
• triple bottom line
• sustainability