ANALYSIS OF THE IMPACT OF FESTIVALS ON THE SOCIO-CULTURAL AND ECONOMIC LIFE OF THE LOCAL POPULATION

Abstract

The aim of this study is to examine how local residents perceive the impacts of festivals in the city of Turkistan. Data were collected through an online survey conducted among 226 local residents. Factor analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM) were employed to analyze the data and test the hypotheses. The findings indicate that the impacts of festivals on the local community are largely positive and multidimensional. Socio-cultural and economic factors highlight the significant role of festivals in enhancing the city’s image and increasing tourist inflows. Additionally, festivals contribute to strengthening social engagement and facilitating effective leisure activities among residents. Although indicators of personal development demonstrate the importance of festivals in enhancing individual potential, the primary influence on this process is exerted by the sustainability factor. Sustainability ensures the long-term impact of festivals in preserving cultural heritage, strengthening social cohesion, and improving quality of life.