Festivals and events assume special places in societies and cultures because they unite people in ways that range from creative celebration to political debate. Within the contemporary tourism industry, festivals and events (including conferences and conventions) exist due to historical, social, political, cultural and environmental significance. This course will facilitate your understanding of the contextual environment within which special events and festivals are located; their relationships with the broader tourism industry both at a national and international scale; and their associated economic, social and cultural impacts. Through the analysis and critique of selected events and festivals, you will gain valuable skills relating to their planning, management and evaluation. Designed to ensure the specialised skills and knowledge required of a tourism professional, you will experience the preparation of an event feasibility document, the development of an event program, the development of budgets and marketing strategies, and ways to identify and develop strategies for resolving potential management issues.