INTRODUCTION:The blended intensive program on event tourism and destination development aims to provide Erasmus students with a unique educational experience that explores the role of events in shaping urban spaces, local identity, and sustainable tourism development. The program integrates theoretical perspectives on event management, placemaking, and destination branding with practical, hands-on learning experiences involving real-world stakeholders. By combining academic insight with field-based activities, the program fosters interdisciplinary collaboration among students from diverse backgrounds and encourages innovative thinking in designing event-based tourism solutions.

THE OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAM: The objectives of the program:

General Objective

To explore the role of events tourism in placemaking and sustainable destination development through an interdisciplinary, practice-based Blended Intensive Program (BIP), combining academic insight with real-world engagement and stakeholder collaboration.

Specific objectives:

• To analyze how cultural and sports events activate public spaces and contribute to shaping local identity and community cohesion.
• To understand the strategic integration of events within broader destination development plans, with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and inclusiveness.
• To engage students with local and regional stakeholders—such as event organizers, DMOs, and public institutions—to assess the socio-economic and spatial impact of events.
• To develop students’ skills in co-designing placemaking interventions, emphasizing creative, participatory, and context-sensitive approaches.
• To foster interdisciplinary, intercultural learning and teamwork among students and staff from participating institutions.