Cross Perspectives: A Comparative Analysis of Perceptions of the Tray’s Festival Among Residents and Visitors

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the cultural and economic impacts of the Tray’s Festival (Festa dos Tabuleiros) in Tomar, Portugal, exploring its dual role as a cultural heritage preserver and a tourism promoter. Drawing upon the concept of event tourism's economic leverage, the study examines how the Tray's Festival, as an embodiment of intangible cultural heritage, significantly enhances Tomar’s tourism sector. The festival, celebrated quadrennially, is not only a pivotal part of Tomar’s identity but also a critical driver of economic activity, attracting substantial visitor influx and boosting local businesses. Employing a multi-methodological qualitative approach, this research integrates observational techniques, document analysis, and semi-structured interviews. Statistical insights are drawn from regional tourism data, reflecting an increase in accommodation offerings and overnight stays in festival years, pointing to the festival's significant role in local economic stimulation. Interviews with local hospitality units reveal unanimous agreement on the festival’s positive contribution to Tomar's tourism landscape, highlighting its role in not only drawing visitors but also in enhancing the city's cultural image. This study enriches the existing literature on the economic impacts of cultural festivals by providing a nuanced understanding of the Tray’s Festival’s role in local economic development and cultural preservation. The findings underscore the necessity of integrating cultural heritage into regional economic planning and tourism strategies, resonating with broader discussions on the synergy between cultural preservation and economic growth. The Tray’s Festival serves as a case study demonstrating how cultural events can be leveraged for sustainable economic benefits while maintaining cultural authenticity and heritage. The comprehensive analysis offered in this research contributes to academic discourse on cultural events and their economic implications. It serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, event organizers, and scholars, providing insights into optimizing cultural heritage for economic development, thus fostering a sustainable and symbiotically beneficial relationship between culture and economy.