The Role of Cultural Festivals in Urban Tourism Development: Economic and Sustainability Evidence from Basant 2026 in Lahore

This study assesses the 2026 revival of Basant in Lahore as a cultural and event-tourism product, with particular attention to its economic contribution, cross-sectoral tourism linkages, destination-image effects, and sustainability risks. The research uses a structured secondary-data analysis of official statements, court-related disclosures, local administration figures, and published media reports, triangulated with established event-tourism and tourism-impact literature. Reported estimates indicate approximately Rs4–6 billion in city-wide business activity during the three-day festival, more than Rs2 billion in kite and string sales, substantial public-transport use, increased hospitality demand, and strong media and diplomatic visibility. At the same time, the event generated serious safety costs, including fatalities and injuries, and available economic estimates remain unaudited. The article therefore distinguishes gross turnover from net tourism benefit and proposes an evaluation framework combining visitor expenditure, hospitality indicators, public costs, safety outcomes, destination branding, and socio-cultural value. The scientific contribution lies in reframing Basant not merely as a cultural celebration but as an urban event-tourism asset whose long-term competitiveness depends on measurable economic value, safety governance, and sustainable destination management. Practical recommendations are offered for a “Safe Basant” tourism model based on controlled venues, integrated heritage experiences, audited impact measurement, and event-portfolio planning.