In the past, tourism did not represent a significant economic sector for the Municipality of Velenje, but today it ranks among the more important activities in its development programs. Among other things, the municipality directs considerable attention to the development of tourism and recreational activities around the lakes, and with the construction of the Vista event space, Velenje has placed itself on the global festival map. This paper discusses the basic concepts related to festival tourism. It presents the main characteristics of the Municipality of Velenje and all the festivals held in Velenje, as well as the local population's attitude towards festival activities. The institutions and associations involved in organizing events are also described. Based on responses from some festival organizers and the deputy director of the Šaleška Valley Tourism Institute, the impacts of festivals on tourism and the local environment, as well as their mutual cooperation, are presented. Both the positive and negative effects of the development of festival tourism in Velenje, as well as plans and visions for the future, are also outlined.
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