The Ultimate Mini-Guide to Cultural Events - How To Celebrate Them
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By PAGE Editor
Cultural events are a celebration of differences, an exploration of heritage and promotion of understanding. Ranging from vast international stages to petite regional or local corners, they are a form of glueing communities together. If you’re looking to organize an unforgettable event, take a look at our ultimate mini-guide!
How To Plan A Cultural Event
Executing a successful event requires research, adopting a creative approach and managing resources.
Purpose and Theme
Once an analysis of the target audience has been completed and in-depth research has been carried out, it’s time to choose the theme.
At its essence, a cultural event should be an enriching and immersive experience. They are organized to forge cross-cultural understanding, highlight a specific tradition or embrace a historical period.
Nailing down your vision is critical. Its purpose will determine activities, decor and promotional channels used.
For example, the Grec Festival of Barcelona often explores contemporary interpretations of classical works, blending tradition with innovation. Keenly anticipated, it explores culture is its various forms: dance, music, theatre and circus. This year sees the celebration of local artists who have been placed under the international spotlight through the Grec.
Additionally, the Edinburgh International Arts Festival aims to create a space within which individuals can question, reflect and interrogate. Diverging viewpoints and cultures are united through the medium of music, opera, dance and theatre.
Program and Activities
Ever heard of the adage “A cultural event is only as strong as its program”? Even though we have just coined this phrase, it’s still pertinent! The program is the beating heart of your cultural celebration. The activities chosen should reflect the theme and showcase unique aspects and nuances of the chosen theme.
Consider the following:
Artistic Performances - Music, dance, theatre - the list is endless. These are an example of some of the most popular ways to showcase and celebrate different roots.
Workshops and demonstrations - Interactive workshops and demonstrations allow attendees to participate.
Lectures, interview panels, Q&A sessions - Inviting subject experts or aficionados of the matter makes for interesting discussions and teachings.
Culinary delights - No event would be complete without sampling traditional food and beverages.
Market stalls - A pop-up market is an opportune moment to support local businesses related to the cause or vendors that sell traditional and artisan items.
An interesting example of this is offered by Qatar. Since 2012, the initiative “Years of Culture” has deepened the understanding of nations. Each year, Qatar and another nation engage in a year-long cultural exchange. In 2024, Morocco is the partner country. The extensive program includes art and museum exhibitions along with culinary, sporting and fashion displays. Not only does this initiative strive to uncover the cultural intricacies of the partner country but also hosts events promoting Qatari culture around the world.
Legal and Permit
The one barrier that may stop your cultural fest in its tracks is legality. Research and apply for the necessary permits well in advance (60 -90 days) so the celebration can go off without a hitch.
There may be cultural-specific permits that you need to obtain along with local regulations. Planning a block party, parade or festival? The type of application and approval process will differ according to your vision for the event.
Planning and Budgeting
You have an undeniably captivating idea but do you have the resources to back it up?
Organizing a memorable and successful campaign requires realistic objectives and strict allocation of resources.
A budget must cover necessary and unavoidable expenses like location rental, performers, set-up costs and promotion. Another way to source some additional budget is sponsorships or fundraising campaigns. Crowdfunding platforms such as GoFundMe or hosting events such as Couch to 5 Km is another way to raise resources.
Logistics, Logistics, Logistics
Practicalities are not only essential but they are just that: practical.
Include logistical and infrastructure aspects in your planning such as:
Accessibility and Inclusivity
Restroom facilities
Emergency exits and signage
First Aid staff and station
Seating arrangements (if necessary)
Promotion Campaign
Diffusing information and generating interest are key to culture-centric events. Once your target audience has been thoroughly researched, you can determine which channels are most effective and how best to reach them.
Craft your marketing strategy by including social media, partnering with local organizations and creating content.
In 2022, Rio’s Carnaval saw a miraculous makeover campaign. Tasked with a rebranding, Tatil's creative agency devised the ultimate branding that encapsulates the infectious energy of Carnaval. With lettering moving to the beat of the drum and eye-catching colors, the sensation is palpable. More importantly, it provides an accurate representation of the Brazilian festival while incorporating culturally specific elements.
The Big Day Has Arrived
The highly anticipated event has arrived. A well-briefed team will be aware of any possible issues and how to overcome them. Assigning roles and responsibilities ensures smoother sailing.
Post-Event Evalutaion
Your event was a total success. Or was it? Post-event evaluation is essential for subsequent events, improving tactics and uncovering best practices.
A chosen theme? Check. An unmissable list of activities? Double-check. Legality issues? So checked it’s positively unlawful. Logistics, promotion and day-of organization? All checked! Once you have these points secured, you’re ready to host the best cultural event your locale has ever seen!
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