Examining unauthorized events & gatherings in the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Despite the pervasiveness of unauthorized and illegal events and gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic, event scholars have not examined the behavior of attendees, the various types of unauthorized gatherings, and the consequences of meeting and gathering during a pandemic. Thus, the aim of this viewpoint is to bring attention to unauthorized events by highlighting various theoretical frameworks that explain how risk, social needs, and customer deviance provide understanding of unauthorized events and gatherings. A research agenda provides probing research questions that can be used to create a research stream in the area of unauthorized events.

Experiencing Event Management During the Coronavirus Pandemic: A Public Sector Perspective

“…Paramount among these is the role for smaller, especially artsrelated events in outdoor spaces. Findings from this research resonate with, and provide empirical substantiation of, Davies's (2020) and Olson's (2021) views, respectively, on the role of small and alternative public spaces for future events. With appropriate public health measures in place, smaller, outdoor events have the capacity to return citizens sooner than larger events to public spaces; to sociable, congregative behaviours; and to build morale and community spirit when it is tested most (cf.…”

“…This echoes progress in theatre scholarship where there has been discussion of potential transformations in performance events, often focusing on digital modes of delivery and their significance in terms of aesthetics, reach and accessibility (Svich, 2020 ; Aebischer, 2021 ). In her discussion of festivals, Davies ( 2020 : 188) observes that “smaller community festivals may be a more efficient method of limiting the number of attendees and cutting down costs for the festival hosts and attendees” while Olson ( 2021 ) identifies the pervasiveness of subversive practises during the pandemic, arguing for a research agenda on unauthorised and illegal events. Among the locations for unauthorised gatherings are public locations and venues, including “public parks, roadways, civic centres and convention centres owned by government” (Olson, 2021 : 179).…”

“…In her discussion of festivals, Davies ( 2020 : 188) observes that “smaller community festivals may be a more efficient method of limiting the number of attendees and cutting down costs for the festival hosts and attendees” while Olson ( 2021 ) identifies the pervasiveness of subversive practises during the pandemic, arguing for a research agenda on unauthorised and illegal events. Among the locations for unauthorised gatherings are public locations and venues, including “public parks, roadways, civic centres and convention centres owned by government” (Olson, 2021 : 179). His work is notable for pointing to the need to think through the types of spaces used for social gatherings.…”

Shifting Trend on Management Event during the Pandemic

“…Small-scale events will tend to prefer virtual while large-scale events may prefer hybrid. (Olson, 2020) The following is a list of reviewed research based on interest in participating in the event: The consumer choices as described in table 1 above show that the options for joining the current event must vary according to the expectations of potential participants. So what are the advantages and disadvantages of each choice of participation methods?…”

Effects of COVID-19 Infection Control Measures on the Festival and Event Sector in Poland and Norway

“…In particular, live events are a platform for building relationships and providing impressions and emotions, which are important aspects of events. Olson [51] points out that, despite the COVID-19 pandemic and numerous restrictions, some people still flock to informal events. On the other hand, some people feel fear related to mass gatherings, and there is a risk that this feeling will remain after the pandemic, making it difficult for the event industry to regain balance [52].…”