The Role of Fashion Events in Tourism Destinations: DMOs Perspective

Fashion events have the particularity of adding recognition and value to host cities, which is reflected in a competitive advantage over competing destinations. However, the tourism of fashion events is not properly valued by the tourism industry, and therefore, this investigation aims to deepen scientific knowledge about this tourism segment. The general objective of this study is to understand the role of fashion events in the northern region of Portugal, in general, and in the city of Porto as tourism destinations. The selected instrument for data collection was the semi-structured interviews, which were conducted with three representatives of DMO’s. Respondents believe those fashion events held in the city of Porto would be more advantageous for the tourism sector if they were promoted on a wider scale; fashion events have the ability to add value to the city of Porto and are directly related to its image and the personality of the city and its active, cultured and cosmopolitan lifestyle; there is a general concern, by the organization of these events, for the valorisation of tourist resources and emblematic places of the city. Finally, respondents recognize that the participants of the fashion events, in addition to the innovation, presentation, organization and experience of the events, value Portugal, in general, and the city of Porto, in particular as tourism destinations and in this perspective, take advantage of the participation in the event to get to know the city. Most participants return in subsequent editions extend their stay and travel accompanied by family and/or friends.