One key concept that emerges from their work is the idea of a more holistic construct of civic responsibility. They argue that in order to achieve sustainability in festivals, a shift is needed. This shift should lead to a broader understanding of civic responsibility. This understanding encompasses not only the festival organizers but also the attendees, local communities, and other stakeholders. This holistic approach acknowledges responsibility for sustainability extends beyond the event itself. It requires active engagement from all parties involved.

The authors suggest a shift towards a more holistic construct of civic responsibility. This will lead to a post-co-creative stage. It will also lead to a co-productive future for many critical mass meeting experiences. In other words, they propose that festivals will evolve from being solely co-creative endeavors. The focus is on collaboration between organizers and attendees. They suggest a shift to co-productive experiences that involve a wider range of actors and stakeholders.

This co-productive future requires a deeper level of engagement and collaboration. It involves festival organizers, local communities, government agencies, businesses, and attendees. It recognizes that festivals are not isolated events. They are integral parts of the social, cultural, and economic fabric of the communities in which they take place. By embracing a co-productive approach, festivals can leverage the collective knowledge of all stakeholders. They can access shared resources and inspire creativity. This enables them to foster sustainability, create meaningful experiences, and contribute to the overall well-being of the community.

In summary, the work by Robertson, Hutton, Brown, and their colleagues proposes that a more holistic construct of civic responsibility will emerge in the future of outdoor music festivals. This construct emphasises the importance of place and event sustainability and calls for a shift towards a co-productive approach that involves collaboration and engagement from a wide range of actors. By embracing this holistic and co-productive future, festivals can contribute to the development of sustainable and meaningful experiences for all participants.

co-produced; civil responsibility; resilient events and living places