Tourist gastronomic events and cross-purchasing: effect of rituals, authenticity and perceived value

Abstract

This study looks at how visitor experience in gastronomic events impacts subsequent cross-purchases of local food products and specifically explores how attending food rituals enhances the perceived authenticity of the event, which in turn influences the culinary experience value (both learning and hedonic) for tourists. The study also considers two moderating variables: geographical distance and visitor ethnocentrism. The empirical research focuses on the centuries-old celebration of a gastronomic event in which participants taste typical dishes, with the possibility of previously attending a traditional ritual which involves a demonstration of pork cutting and preparation methods. Findings indicate that attending the ritual increases the perception of authenticity, which positively affects the perceived value of the experience. Notably, only the learning value significantly impacts the subsequent cross-purchase of local products. Furthermore, authenticity affects cross-purchasing behaviour, particularly among visitors with higher levels of ethnocentrism or those travelling from further afield. • Food rituals enhances the perceived authenticity of gastronomic events and learning value. • Both perceived authenticity and learning value impact cross-purchases of local food. • Ethnocentric individuals purchase a greater variety of local products when they perceive authenticity. • The greater the distance between the traveller's origin and destination, the stronger the impact of perceived authenticity.