Exploring the Influential Factors of Emotional Engagement in Events: A Sri Lankan Perspective

This study investigates the factors influencing emotional engagement (EE) during events in Sri Lanka, emphasizing their implications for attendee loyalty and satisfaction (ALS). Utilizing a quantitative research design, a sample of 384 participants was collected through purposive sampling and online surveys. The study explores three primary constructs: event-related factors (ERF), attendee-related factors (ARF), and external factors (EF), employing factor analysis and using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) for hypothesis testing. The findings reveal that event-related factors, attendee-related factors, and external factors positively impact emotional engagement, with emotional engagement significantly affecting attended loyalty and satisfaction. The results highlight the importance of event organization, attendee characteristics, and the broader socio-cultural context in shaping emotional connections at events. This research provides valuable insights for event organizers and stakeholders in the tourism sector, advocating for enhanced emotional engagement strategies to foster loyalty and satisfaction among attendees.