dc.description.abstract | Festivals provide economic, social and cultural benefits to the communities in which they occur, and
contribute to event tourism and destination marketing. This research reports a meta-analysis of the
festival literature to evaluate the factors that contribute to festival satisfaction and loyalty. Attributes
were classified into six categories: activities, authenticity/uniqueness, concessions, environment, escape
and socialization. The analysis revealed that festival activities (program, entertainment, thematic activities)
and environment (atmosphere, convenience, facilities) are the most important determinants of
satisfaction and loyalty. Two perceptions were evaluated: cost/value and service quality. The analysis
revealed that cost/value is important for both satisfaction and loyalty, whereas service quality is relatively
unimportant. Satisfaction with the festival is strongly related to loyalty. The findings suggest that
festival planners should focus on providing an enjoyable program in a comfortable environment at a
reasonable price. This strategy will cultivate repeat attendance and stimulate future visits to the festival
destination. | vi |