Both sides have a valid point, and yet the truth often lies in nuance: local events enrich a destination but are not always the main driver of the travel decision.
It is a valid concern that these cultural or sporting events can turn a simple visit into a deep immersion, offering unique experiences not found in brochures.
But in reality, for many, destination planning is primarily dictated by much more down-to-earth constraints, such as budget, safety, or transportation logistics.
In Senegal, for example, a wrestling festival can be incredible, but if the price of a plane ticket or accommodation skyrockets, it becomes out of reach for most families, relegating the event to a bonus, not a decisive criterion.
The middle ground is to recognize the positive impact of events while keeping in mind that they are often a conditional luxury, not an universally prioritized component in destination validation.