Local food festivals within the scope of destination branding

The perceptions and desires of individuals for touristic products are constantly changing in accordance with the changing conditions of the time. Today, while interest in mass tourism is decreasing, interest and searches for alternative types of tourism tend to increase steadily. In addition, in increasingly competitive conditions, destinations show their differences and attach importance to branding activities to create identity for themselves. In recent years, one of the most important tools used by destination (country, region, city, etc.) managers to differentiate their regions from their competitors and to achieve sustainable competitive advantage is destination branding. Activities in the region are of great importance for destination branding. Destinations can enrich their brands using regional food festivals. Employment opportunities, social-cultural and economic benefits can be provided to the people of the region where the festival is held. In this study, the importance of local food festivals is emphasized within the scope of destination branding