The “Festival Size Pyramid” in Three Norwegian Festival Populations

The importance and definition of festival size is first considered. Then data on whole festival populations in three Norwegian counties are analyzed. The analysis reveals a clear pattern in all three counties that is termed the “festival size pyramid” in which the base consists of a large number of small, recurring festivals, and the apex includes only a few, large festivals. Size and age are significantly correlated, with medium and larger festivals being older. A number of other statistically significant relationships are revealed, notably between size and growth orientation. Organizational ecology provides a theoretical frame for interpreting the results, especially age and density dependence and niche theory. In the conclusions, theory development is emphasized through the advancement of propositions. There are also managerial implications highlighted for those seeking to create and manage portfolios of events.