Special events and festivals have become common, important features in communities all over the world. Events are one of the fastest growing types of leisure- and tourism-related businesses. Special events have the ability to satisfy the need for an opportunity to participate in public celebration, leisure activities, and social and cultural experiences outside the normal range of choices or beyond everyday experiences.

Events bring citizens together, give them an opportunity to meet other people, and create a sense of excitement. The creation of cultural and entertainment venues leads to new interest and vitality in the community, which in turn, leads to an increased sense of pride in the community and enhanced quality of life.

Special Events and Festivals will assist seasoned event planners, new staff members in event management companies, board members from nonprofit agencies, and anyone else with the responsibility of planning a special event or festival. Whether planning a first-time event or for one celebrating its 20th anniversary, the key to proper planning is detailed organization. The planning steps presented in this manual are applicable to all types of events from large, multiday festivals to small, one-day community activities.

The chapters are presented chronologically by following the planning process of event production. This manual provides many prototypes and planning tools as examples to be used, adapted, and rewritten to meet the needs of any special event. With knowledge and experience, planners will learn when and how to combine steps, eliminate procedures, and manipulate the planning process to best meet the needs for individual events. This important resource and idea stimulus will help planners start the process, identify who to get involved, and make great events happen.