THE IMPORTANCE OF EVENTS ON DESTINATION CHOICE: GALLIPOLI PENINSULA SAMPLE

Competition in between the destinations, there are various events held by destinations to keep the tourists coming and to provide the destination to be a popular place for tourists. The commemorative events which are type of event have an important role on destination development and increase of attractiveness. The aim of this study is to identify the travel motivations and differences according to demographic variables, to identify the impact of events on destination choice and to prove test the model which describes the role of events. In this context it is examined the impact of events about the Canakkale Battle, such as 18th of March Canakkale Naval Battle Victory and Commemoration of Martyrs' Day, Anzac Day and other events on destination choice. For this aim a research model including hypothesis is developed based on the literature review. Hypotheses are tested via t test, ANOVA and structural equation modelling. Data for this study was collected by questionnaires applied to Gallipoli Peninsula visitors. As a result of this analysis it is established that visiting Gallipoli Peninsula holds an important position at visitors' lifetime. Besides cultural experiences and national and spiritual emotions, the events are also important visitation motivation among motivation factors.