Resident Perceptions of Local Festivals in Winona, Minnesota
Presenter(s)
Madelynn Punzal and Jullie Thakur
Abstract
This study examines residents' social representations of local festivals in Winona, Minnesota, and factors that shape pathways to engagement with these events. Local festivals play an important role in community life, yet residents do not all view them in the same way. Focusing on five annual local festivals, the study considers how individuals perceive and evaluate these events in terms of familiarity, accessibility, and sense of fit.
An online survey has been developed to assess residents' perceptions and selected factors associated with those views, including personal experience, media exposure, and social networks. The study also considers how broader life circumstances may influence how individuals relate to local leisure opportunities. This work aims to inform more inclusive and engaging festival experiences.
Data collection will occur in spring and summer 2026, with results expected to provide insight into how residents relate to local festivals.
College
College of Nursing & Health Sciences
Department
Recreation, Tourism & Therapeutic Recreation
Campus
Winona
First Advisor/Mentor
Phileshia Dombroski
Location
Kryzsko Great River Ballroom, Winona, Minnesota; United States
Start Date
4-23-2026 10:00 AM
End Date
4-23-2026 11:00 AM
Presentation Type
Poster Session
Format of Presentation or Performance
In-Person
Session
1b=10am-11am
Poster Number
78
Resident Perceptions of Local Festivals in Winona, Minnesota
Kryzsko Great River Ballroom, Winona, Minnesota; United States
This study examines residents' social representations of local festivals in Winona, Minnesota, and factors that shape pathways to engagement with these events. Local festivals play an important role in community life, yet residents do not all view them in the same way. Focusing on five annual local festivals, the study considers how individuals perceive and evaluate these events in terms of familiarity, accessibility, and sense of fit.
An online survey has been developed to assess residents' perceptions and selected factors associated with those views, including personal experience, media exposure, and social networks. The study also considers how broader life circumstances may influence how individuals relate to local leisure opportunities. This work aims to inform more inclusive and engaging festival experiences.
Data collection will occur in spring and summer 2026, with results expected to provide insight into how residents relate to local festivals.
