Community Perspectives on the Environmental, Social, and Economic Impacts of the Tomohon International Flower Festival

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to evaluate the perceptions of the local community regarding the economic, socio-cultural, and environmental impacts of the Tomohon International Flower Festival (TIFF). Specifically, the study aims to understand how the residents of Tomohon view the festival's contributions to their economic well-being, social cohesion, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability. Research methodology: This research used an exploratory approach to analyse residents' perceptions of the economic, socio-cultural, and environmental impacts of festival activities in Tomohon. Results: The results of the research indicate that the Tomohon International Flower Festival (TIFF) is perceived positively by the local community across several dimensions. Economically, TIFF is seen as a significant contributor to local income, job creation, and regional revenue. Socio-culturally, the festival enhances social interactions, fosters cultural pride, and supports cultural and educational development. However, the community also expressed concerns about environmental sustainability, particularly regarding waste generation and its negative impact on the city’s aesthetics. Limitations: The data gathered reflects the views of the respondents at a specific point in time and may be influenced by personal experiences, biases, or limited knowledge about broader economic, socio-cultural, and environmental factors. Additionally, the sample size, though sufficient for exploratory analysis, may not be fully representative of the entire Tomohon population, potentially limiting the generalizability of the findings. Contribution: This article contributes to the broader understanding of the socio-economic and environmental impacts of large-scale cultural events like the Tomohon International Flower Festival (TIFF) from the perspective of local communities. This research also serves as a guide for event organizers and policymakers in optimizing the benefits of festivals while addressing community concerns, thereby promoting more sustainable and inclusive event planning.