The smell of fresh popcorn, flashing lights at night, laughing children and bright colors as far as the eye can see. When we think of our local folk festival, we often have wonderful memories at the ready. The events are still one of the most popular leisure activities for the whole family. Especially in times of war, inflation and corona, the folk festivals offer a place of distraction. For a few hours, small children and big adults can leave everyday life beside them and devote themselves to pleasure. In addition, folk festivals are important for the local economy. Why the fair is much more than just a collection of carousels we have summarized in this article.
A great time for the whole family
Our time is characterized by stress, worries and fears. Be it the war in Europe, rising energy costs, Corona measures or professional stress. Here the fair offers a place where everyone can switch off. For a few hours you can immerse yourself in a world of adventure, treats and memories. Whether the ride on the boat swing, delicious cotton candy, a cozy evening in the beer tent or a round with the action-packed roller coaster. The folk festival offers the right options for all needs. Together with friends and family can experience wonderful moments. No wonder, then, that folk festivals are among the most popular events of the year in any community. In addition, the events are a wonderful example of cultural togetherness. Showmen and showwomen usually come from all over the world. Committed, they work together so that visitors can have a great time. Therefore, folk festivals are also always a place of tolerance and togetherness. Things that are becoming increasingly important in today’s world.
Economic factors of the folk festival
From an economic point of view, the folk festival is also a complete success for every municipality. In 2018, almost 190 million people visited the folk festivals in Germany. Every year, more than 4.5 billion euros are turned over at folk festivals. Of course, regional service providers are always involved in the events. Thus, the organizers cooperate with breweries, clubs, restaurants, bakeries, butchers and market traders. In addition, there are the stand fees, which flow directly into the municipalities’ coffers. The German Showmen’s Association commissioned a study to this effect in 2018. It showed that visitors spend 1.4 billion euros each year outside of their Volksfest visit alone. Because one thing is clear: a large folk festival attracts many people. The events are also promoted outside the city. Thus, tourists visit the city and spend their money in the region. Be it a visit to a restaurant or in the form of an overnight stay. Thus, folk festivals are an important source of revenue for municipalities. In times of the pandemic, many events had to be cancelled. To the suffering of the people, but also to the suffering of the municipal coffers.
Conclusion: the funfair as an important cultural asset
Folk festivals are much more than entertaining events. They unite different nations, make it possible to spend pleasant hours away from everyday life and bring direct income to the cities as well as tourists. This makes the folk festival indispensable. And that’s a good thing.
