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.