Understanding Mega Events

Mega Events

• Mega-events are large-scale cultural, sporting, or commercial events with a significant international appeal and dramatic character
• According to Roberts (2004), mega-events are distinctive "stand-alone" events
• The term "mega-event" emerged in academic studies in the 1980s
• The 37th Congress of the Association Internationale d'Experts Scientifiques du Tourisme first used the term in 1987, focused on the role of mega-events on regional and national tourism development.

Defining Mega Events

• Characterized by significant international exposure, broad public appeal, and impactful nature
• Mega-events often exceed local significance or a typical sporting calendar event

Significance of Mega Events

• Evaluated using four characteristics:
  • Visitor attractiveness
  • Mediated reach
  • Cost
  • Transformative impact
• These events have a substantial impact on the host region, generating tourism, job creation, and infrastructure development.

Mega Events' Categories

• Cultural: Large-scale cultural events with national and international appeal, exceeding routine sporting calendar events
• Political: Events with implications on international relations, diplomacy, and global policy, often attracting significant media coverage and public interest. Examples include G7, G20, and COP Summits
• Sporting: Large-scale sporting competitions or championships drawing global attention, significantly impacting host cities and countries

Pros of Mega Events

• Economic Boost: Generate tourism revenue, create jobs in construction, hospitality and other sectors; drive local economic development through increased spending
• Infrastructure Development: Mega-events can spur infrastructure improvements, including stadiums, transportation networks, and public spaces, leaving a tangible legacy
• Investment and Development: Attract foreign investment, stimulate urban renewal projects, and boost long-term regional development.
• Social Benefits: Foster a sense of civic pride and social cohesion within communities
• Global Spotlight: Showcase a city's culture, attractions, and hospitality to a global audience.

Cons of Mega Events

• Financial Risks: Cost overruns, uncertain returns (economic benefits may not be guaranteed), and opportunity costs (allocation of resources away from essential public services)
• Often mega-events exceed initial budget projections causing significant debt burden on the host city.
• Example - The 2016 Rio Olympics and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics significantly exceeded their initial budgets.

Mega Events' Periods

• Pre-Event Period: Bidding period, organizational activities
• Event Period: The event operations and activities
• Post-Event Period: Analysis period, evaluating and documenting the results.

Case Study: Astana Expo 2017

• Hosted in Astana, Kazakhstan from June 10th to September 10th, 2017
• 115 countries and 22 international organizations participated.
• Themed "Future Energy."
• 40 heads of state and 72 foreign ministers were in attendance.
• Displayed Kazakhstan's commitment towards a transition to a green economy and promoted global dialogue about energy security.

Pre-Event Period (Infrastructure and Sources)

• Construction of dedicated expo space including pavilions, a conference center and residential areas in a 174-hectare area.
• Extensive infrastructure development including new roads, transportation systems, and utilities.
• Marketing and promotional campaign ("Grow Green") using social media, online platforms, and traditional media
• Large-scale volunteer program involved 10000 volunteers

Event Period (Diverse Program)

• 3500 events, forums, and international summits over roughly three months
• Variety of activities, from daily shows to high-level political summits involving 28 heads of state and over 100 heads of government and ministers.
• Specialized "Future Energy Forum" brought together international scientists, scholars and policymakers to focus on sustainable energy.

Post-Event Period (In-class Assignment Example)

• Case study and debate on whether Expo 2017 Astana was a "triumph of vision" or a "white elephant."
• Participants are to engage in a "fishbowl" debate.

This quiz explores the concept of mega-events, which are large-scale cultural, sporting, or commercial events with significant international appeal. You will learn about their definitions, characteristics, and impact on tourism and regional development. Test your knowledge on key aspects and examples of mega-events.