Exploring the social phenomena of social capital and community connectedness in the context of the Edinburgh Christmas Festival

Abstract

There is substantial research about the opportunities hosting events can create for host communities, although limited studies have implemented and investigated interventions to increase social capital and community connectedness, as many solely concentrate on the economic benefits. This study explores the social phenomena of social capital and community connectedness in the context of the Edinburgh Christmas Festival, with particular focus on the perceptions, interactions and shared emotional connections of the participants. The study was conducted using a survey and a sample of EH residents of Edinburgh. Furthermore, the survey concentrated on the aspects that contribute to the measurement of the social phenomena under exploration. This study suggests that the participants do experience some levels of social capital and community connectedness from the Edinburgh Christmas Festival, with special interest in community spirit and what makes a sense of community. These perceptions of the Edinburgh Christmas Festival created an interesting dynamic of what qualifies as sense of community and what defines quality of life, as well as the host community's desires and benefits.