A HELYI ÉRDEKCSOPORTOK SZEREPE A VIDÉKI GASZTROFESZTIVÁLOK MŰKÖDTETÉSÉBEN DÉL-ALFÖLDI PÉLDÁK ALAPJÁN

Abstract

The importance of food tourism is increasing globally, in Europe and Hungary as well. This new type of tourism
mostly manifests itself in organising food festivals in Hungary. In our case studies focusing on the Dél-Alföld
(Southern Great Plains) region, we analysed how the sustainable functioning of rural food festivals was influenced by
the cooperation skills of the different interest groups involved. According to our research results, food events that
usually only have local importance can be developed significantly, and they can be transformed even into touristic
festivals which attract people on a regional level. In order to achieve the above, cohesion of local society, successful
reconciliation of interests, and cooperation skills are all necessary. When each of these conditions are realized, a part
of the studied food events may become economically, socially and culturally sustainable for both residents and
tourists.