Contributions of Gastronomy Festivals to Local Tourism: A Stakeholder Perception Study

Gastronomy festivals are significant events in terms of promoting local culinary heritage, preserving food and beverage culture, and strengthening the gastronomic identity of destinations. The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the contributions of the International Gastro Afyon Tourism and Taste Festival to Afyonkarahisar, based on the perspectives of tourism enterprises and local tradespeople participating in the festival, and to develop recommendations regarding the sustainability of the event. The study was designed using a quantitative research approach, and a structured questionnaire was employed as the data collection instrument. Data were collected through face-to-face surveys conducted during the festival period, and a total of 395 participants were included in the analyses. The findings indicate that stakeholders strongly emphasize the socio-economic contributions of the festival. It was determined that the festival supports regional development, encourages local producers, contributes to the promotion and brand value of the destination, and increases demand for local products. The most striking result is that the festival is perceived not only as a promotional tool but also as a significant instrument for generating economic dynamism and enhancing tourism vitality. In conclusion, gastronomy festivals are considered strategic instruments in destination development; to strengthen sustainability, it is recommended that the duration of the festival be extended and cooperation with tour operators be enhanced.