What is the impacts of event tourism ? : application to the Christmas market of Liege

Abstract

Tourism is developing at an exceptional speed between the different countries. In order to stand out from one another, tourism organizations are highlighting event tourism that not only attract tourists but also put the destination in the spotlight. The events are intended to attract tourists in order to generate economic growth. Tourists will have certain needs that the local economy will supplement by employing labour and generating income. The economic impacts associated with events are numerous but, contrary to popular belief, they are not always positive. In order to identify these impacts, researchers use different methods: this paper highlights the IO model and the CGE analysis. \\

In order to analyse the theory, the case of the Liège Christmas market will be analysed. Christmas markets are special cases in cultural events because visitors do not have the same expectations at Christmas markets as at other cultural events. In fact, we can see that most Christmas markets do not meet visitors' expectations and that the economic benefits could be much greater if organizers paid more attention to them.