CULTURAL EVENTS AND REFLECTIONS ON THE DIGITALIZATION PROCESS

Abstract

Dependence on physical mobility has decreased with the advent of digital technologies. Many cultural events have started to become accessible from the homes of larger and international audiences. Digital tools make the innovation and tourism sectors more inclusive and sustainable, enabling individuals who cannot participate in activities due to physical disabilities or low socio-economic status. Whether it is an exhibition, a festival, or any other type of event, participation in cultural events becomes much more interesting and interactive with digital tools. Especially against the restrictions faced due to Covid-19, many cultural events known around the world have turned to digitalization and online streaming. In this research, the purpose is to examine the types of cultural events in detail and to discuss the examples of the digitalization of these events. The findings of the study showed that after the COVID-19 epidemic, digitalization has changed cultural events, and services offered in the public and private sectors began to shift to online platforms. While it is observed that festivals are the most common cultural events on digital platforms, it is determined that commemorations are also found on online platforms. It may be suggested that carnivals and religious events among other cultural events are not yet reflected on digital platforms.