To what extent do music festivals influence the economy and society of autonomous communities in Spain?

Abstract

This thesis analyses the socioeconomic effects of music festivals in the autonomous communities of Spain, emphasising their function as drivers and stimulators of economic and social development. Through a mixed research design, integrating Local Economic Development Theory and Social Capital theory, it explores how these events act as economic engines and foster the creation of social capital within a community. The results of the study indicate that festivals are not only able to significantly stimulate tourism and the local economy through job creation and tourism expenditure but are also capable of creating and strengthening the social and cultural structures of communities. However, these events present challenges such as waste management and noise pollution, which require sustainable strategies to minimise these negative effects. This study helps to understand the extent of the multidimensional effects generated by music festivals and to study their role as strategic tools that contribute to economic development.