Abstract

In the past two decades, numerous festivals have been held worldwide to boost tourism and attract potential economic opportunities. Iran, with its rich cultural heritage and long-standing history, is home to many traditional and ritualistic ceremonies. Agricultural tourism plays a significant role in reducing rural poverty, promoting sustainable agricultural and rural development, mitigating cultural and environmental damage, fostering long-term rural economic growth, creating income-generating opportunities for local residents, and promoting a culture of preserving natural resources while making optimal use of cultural and natural attractions. It also paves the way for social participation in preserving cultural heritage, connecting with different cultures and ethnic groups, and fostering mutual interactions between villagers and tourists.



With this approach, the present article seeks to examine the drivers of agritourism by focusing on social spatial changes in the village of Sheet, emphasizing the Cherry Festival in Tarom County. This research is applied in nature and employs a descriptive-analytical method. Data collection was conducted through library research and fieldwork (interviews using structured questionnaires with residents of the studied areas). The study is based on interviews with residents of Sheet village (mainly household heads), with a sample size of 88 households out of a total of 240. The investigation took place along the pedestrian paths leading to the festival site in Sheet village.



In this article, research tools, particularly MicMac, were used to identify key factors of social spatial changes from the perspective of local and key stakeholders. The positive and pleasant atmosphere in Sheet village suggests that the Cherry Festival has primarily created favorable conditions and positive effects in the village.

Keywords: Event-based tourism, space changes, sustainable regeneration, Shit tourism village.