Examining gastronomy festivals, a type of event tourism, within the scope of the United Nations sustainable development goals

Abstract

PurposeThe aim of this study is to analyze the gastronomy festivals in Türkiye within the scope of the United Nations sustainable development goals.Design/methodology/approachIn line with this purpose, a systematic review approach, which is a qualitative research method, was adopted as the method of the study. In the study, the data was collected with document analysis technique by accessing secondary sources. Systematic literature review was used to analyze the data.FindingsWhen the gastronomy-themed festivals in Türkiye are analyzed, it is seen that 23 of them are in line with at least one of the United Nations sustainable development goals. The number of festivals organized in accordance with more than one of these goals is 18. The number of festivals organized in accordance with at least one goal is 5. The fact that only 23 of the 351 festivals in the research universe are organized in accordance with the United Nations sustainable development goals reveals that festivals are insufficient in terms of sustainability.Research limitations/implicationsThis study adopts theoretical approaches such as the experience economy, as it provides unforgettable consumption experiences for both producers and consumers participating in gastronomy festivals, and stakeholder theory, as festivals involve many stakeholders. The study also presents practical approaches, such as supporting local development, which is one of the primary objectives of festivals.Originality/valueThis study has revealed the sustainability status of gastronomy festivals in Türkiye which have been taken into consideration more frequently in recent years. It may also contribute to the literature to examine the organized gastronomy festivals within the scope of the UN sustainable development goals.