Edinburgh Napier University

  My paper presents an exploratory and collaborative public engagement with research study; and considers its potential to inform future festivals planning in Edinburgh as the festival city and a hospitable destination. My study involved a co-designed methodology to engage with residents as secondary stakeholders. The aim was to gain an understanding of their memories and experiences of Edinburgh’s festival spaces and places. A creative walking workshop methodology was intended, however, due to the global pandemic, this was adapted to become online walking, and mapping. Alongside research findings, an outcome was a geolocated sonic map and walking tour. My paper concludes with reflections on the potential of virtual walking methods in the context of inclusive festival and destination management.