Music Tourism Hits a High Note with Rapid Growth
by Bruce Parkinson
Music tourism is an expanding niche market.
Around the world, there is rising demand for live music experiences, festivals, and destination-based events that combine travel with entertainment.
In 2024, the global Music Tourism Market was valued at US$102 billion and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 18.6% over the forecast period, reaching approximately US$400.5 billion by 2032.
North America dominated the global music tourism market in 2024, driven by world-renowned festivals such as Coachella, Lollapalooza, and Austin City Limits. Strong infrastructure, high disposable incomes, and a thriving live music culture contribute to the region’s leadership.
The United States remains the core market, while Canada also attracts growing inbound tourism through events like Osheaga and the Montreal Jazz Festival.
The music tourism industry benefits from the increasing popularity of mega music festivals, cross-border travel for concerts, and digital platforms that boost global visibility of live events.
Partnerships between tourism boards, event organizers, and hospitality providers are further strengthening the ecosystem by offering bundled travel and event packages. The market’s expansion is also supported by rising disposable incomes and consumer preference for cultural experiences, making music tourism a central part of lifestyle-driven travel spending worldwide.

Rising Popularity of Music Festivals and Live Events
Global music festivals such as Coachella, Glastonbury, and Tomorrowland attract millions of international visitors annually. These events not only promote local tourism but also create strong demand for travel, hospitality, and entertainment services. The growing trend of combining travel with live performances remains a key growth driver for the market.
Increasing Disposable Income and ‘Experience-Centric’ Spending
Higher disposable incomes, especially among millennials and Gen Z, are fueling demand for travel experiences over material goods. Music tourism fits this trend by offering cultural engagement, entertainment, and leisure in one package. This shift toward experiential spending is significantly boosting global market revenues.
Government and Industry Support for Cultural Tourism
Tourism boards and governments are actively promoting music events as part of cultural tourism strategies. Partnerships with airlines, hotels, and local businesses enhance accessibility and affordability for travellers. These initiatives create an enabling environment for sustained growth in music tourism across both developed and emerging regions.
Collaboration Between Tourism and Hospitality Sectors
Partnerships between event organizers, airlines, hotels, and travel agencies are creating bundled packages that simplify planning for tourists. Offering all-in-one deals that include tickets, accommodation, and local experiences encourages higher participation. These collaborations not only enhance customer convenience but also drive revenue across multiple industries linked to music tourism.





