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Implementation of a community development strategy, in order to improve and empower the identity of the festival.
Training of the personnel, specially of the coordinators, the people who work actively in the festival coordination, but often volunteering and without proper professional training.
Mobility and circulation of organisers and sub-coordinators in order to learn how other festivals face common problems.
Improve the economical sustainability of the events, by distributing the activities throughout the year and diversifying the incomes.
Improve the ecological sustainability of the events, by reducing their impact on the local environment, minimise the use of resources and production of waste and by strengthening the local audience presence.
Improve the accessibility to the festivals, by establishing the local and international networks in order to develop the necessary infrastructure.
Improve the transnational cooperation, establishing connections with other festivals out of the local borders and promoting the business model.
Welcome to the SMA Stories collection, where we share the inspiring journeys and valuable lessons learned throughout our project. Each story reflects the unique experiences of participants who explored the vibrant world of festivals, gaining insights into the power of community, creativity, and collaboration.
From Ypsigrock’s seamless integration of festival life into its community to the innovative engagement initiatives at Haldern Pop, and D-Festival, these narratives highlight how festivals foster meaningful connections. Ypsigrock’s focus on accessibility, Haldern Pop’s impactful intergenerational volunteering programs, and D-Festival’s youth-oriented activities showcase the potential for festivals to unite people and celebrate shared values.
They reveal how challenges can foster resilience, how collaboration fuels innovation, and how every festival carries its own story woven into the fabric of its people and places. Along the way, participants gained practical tools for sustainability, cultural promotion, and volunteer engagement, ensuring that festivals continue to thrive and inspire.
Join us as we celebrate these shared experiences, the inspiration behind them, and the tools they’ve given us to create more meaningful, sustainable, and connected festival landscapes across Europe. These are more than just stories—they are the heartbeat of SMA.
This report provides an overview, highlighting the key findings on how the festivals employ strategies to survive and thrive, highlighting their commitment to sustainability, community, artistic integrity, and diversity—elements vital in cultivating sustainable cultural landmarks.
The Full Report offers an in-depth perspective and extensive narratives from festival leaders, exploring the nuanced approaches they take to navigate geographical and cultural challenges. The report highlights the commitment of the festivals towards sustainability, community engagement, artistic values and diversity, which enhance experiences and contribute to building long-lasting cultural hubs.
Ypsigrock Festival stands as Italy’s premier boutique festival, seamlessly integrating contemporary indie music with the rich cultural heritage of Castelbuono. Our visit focused on understanding its community-driven model, innovative programming, and strategies for overcoming challenges related to financial constraints and sustainability.
D Festival, situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Dojran, exemplifies how creativity and inclusivity can transform a regional event into a cultural cornerstone. The study visit provided insights into its approaches to provide a platform for young people from the love of music and its impact on local economic development.
Haldern Pop Festival, held in the small village of Haldern in the Lower Rhine Valley, is celebrated for its eclectic mix of genres and intimate atmosphere. The festival’s commitment to maintaining a cozy, community-centric environment while showcasing a diverse lineup offers a unique perspective on balancing growth with authenticity.
