The same Center for Rural Affairs newsletter also cited a study that showed that art and cultural events not only enhance rural living, they bring visitors who spend about twice as much as the locals.
The study found that arts-based communities have seen revenue skyrocket over 24 percent from 2000 to 2005. One reason is patrons spend more than just the price of an event ticket or admission price.
The study estimated that, on average, events attracted 61 percent local attendees and 39 percent from outside the community. It showed that while the average local attendee spends $19.53 per person on the events, those from outside the area spend around $40.19.
Finally, the study also showed the arts do not flourish at the expense of local economic development. Creating an environment that holds the arts and culture at a premium becomes a major economic force by enhancing the livability of the area.
Read the entire article.
