The United States boasts one of the world’s most diverse cultural identities. Nearly every region of the world has influenced American culture, from the traditions and customs to the food and music.
How do people celebrate and preserve their culture? One way is through cultural heritage events. Every month features a colorful collection of carnivals, festivals, processions and so much more. Commemorations like Black History Month, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and Native American Heritage Month are all opportunities for people to come together in celebration, learning and inclusivity.
The phrase “cultural heritage” also encompasses physical locations like museums, monuments and groups of buildings or sites. In the United States, places like Yellowstone National Park, the Statue of Liberty and Carlsbad Caverns are designated by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. The U.S. is home to 24 of these sites, with more than 1,150 around the world.
People aren’t just checking out local destinations to immerse themselves in history and culture – they’re also embarking on journeys dubbed “heritage tourism.” According to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, heritage tourism involves “traveling to experience the places, artifacts and activities that authentically represent the stories and people of the past.”
Even if people aren’t traveling specifically to attend a cultural heritage event, they still incorporate culture into their travel. A study from Americans for the Arts, a nonprofit that focuses on advancing the arts throughout the U.S., found that more than half (65%) of American travelers have included an arts or cultural event in a recent vacation.
Whether people are attending cultural heritage events in their hometown or taking part in heritage tourism, promotional products can enhance their experiences. Businesses can participate in cultural events to build awareness while connecting with new audiences. Organizations that host cultural heritage events can use promos at all stages, from announcing the event to selling sponsorships and tickets to giving attendees branded items they can take home.
Below, we highlight some heritage findings, along with promos that could work for cultural events.
Countries With Rich Cultural Traditions
U.S. News & World Report ranks countries based on attributes like geographical attractions, cultural attractions and cultural accessibility. These countries rose to the top when it comes to the richest cultural heritage.
- Italy
- Greece
- Spain
- France
- Mexico
- Egypt
- Turkey
- India
- Japan
- Thailand
Celebrating Diversity
About 14% of American citizens were born in another country, with more than 1 million immigrants arriving in the U.S. every year, according to Pew Research. When they arrive, cultural heritage events of all kinds can help them feel connected to their roots while introducing others to their customs and traditions. During these events, places like community cultural or heritage centers can use promotional products to engage with attendees and spread awareness about programs or groups.
Keep The Arts And Culture Events Coming
According to a study from Americans for the Arts, 90% of people believe cultural facilities like theaters, museums and arts centers improve quality of life, even if they don’t typically engage with the arts. Another 86% believe cultural facilities are important to local businesses and the economy.
Festivals For The Win
Many cultural heritage events are festivals. Last year, the festival industry as a whole generated an estimated $3 billion in ticket sales. This doesn’t account for extras like food, drink and merchandise sales.
Attending festivals like cultural heritage events can make people feel more connected to humanity and more willing to help strangers afterward. A Yale study found that 63% of festivalgoers say the event was a “transformative experience” that left them feeling more socially connected with all people. Brands can get in on the connection with promotional products like T-shirts, bags, flags and other fun festival giveaways.
Promoting Involvement
Organizations and societies that help promote the conservation of world heritage, like World Heritage USA and the U.S. Committee of the Blue Shield, can use promotional items to educate communities, encourage donations and highlight ways to get involved. For example, World Heritage USA offers memberships, volunteer opportunities and the chance to participate in different committees. Promotional campaigns can help nonprofits like these spread their message to wider audiences.
Prepare For Advocacy Days
Want to reach an audience who’s passionate about preserving cultural artifacts and other cultural heritage objects? Connect with organizations like the American Alliance of Museums and the National Humanities Alliance for advocacy days, which, according to the American Institute for Conservation, usually occur in February and March. Promotional items can be helpful tools at lectures and other events.
Use Promo To Create An Experience
Many heritage sites host events like parades, marathons or formal dances to attract people who may not otherwise visit. For example, the annual Great Wall Marathon in China draws people from all over the world not only to compete but also to experience Chinese culture. Promos can both add to the event and tell an important story about the culture.
October is Italian-American Heritage and Culture Month. Give the A Taste of Italy Italian Seasoning Gift Set at cooking classes or festivals. Each set contains a jar of dried oregano, red pepper flakes and garlic powder.
Midnite Snax / PPAI 113793, S3
Pick Dim Sum for Everyone for readings in classrooms and libraries. In this entertaining board book for young children, Newberry Honor-winning author Grace Lin shares a simple story about the origins and practice of dim sum. Showcase your client’s logo with an imprint, belly band wrap or promo page insert.
The Book Company / PPAI 218850, S5
The German Alpine Hat makes a fun addition to Oktoberfest celebrations. This one-size-fits-most hat features a full-color logo on a faux leather icon that’s glued to the hat.
The Beistle Company / PPAI 111182, S3
Make a splash at cultural heritage events of all kinds with the PET Tote Bag. Full-color dye sublimation reaches edge to edge to maximize a brand’s impact.
HPG / PPAI 110772, S11
Convey a valuable message to the youngest citizens with the Diversity is Wonderful Coloring Book. Featuring 20 pages of activities and lessons, this promotional item helps children learn about the world and people around them.
Fields Manufacturing / PPAI 111951, S8
Spark some smiles at events like sushi and sake festivals or Japanese heritage events with the Just Roll With It Sushi Gift Set. Each set includes a bamboo Bento lunchbox, a small bamboo cutting board, a rolling mat and paddle set, plus a package of gummy sushi.
NC Custom / PPAI 111662, S7
When attendees are strolling around cultural heritage events, they can use the AeroLOFT Wallet to stash their ID, cash and credit cards. This durable 2-in-1 keyring wallet is water-repellent and fits easily in a pocket.
Ariel Premium Supply / PPAI 161650, S11
