Asan, KubraDaskin, MustafaKaptangil, Kerem2025-03-232025-03-2320231758-29541758-2962https://doi.org/10.1108/IJEFM-10-2022-0077https://hdl.handle.net/11486/5423PurposeCultural festivals have started to be held face-to-face with masks and distance measures after the gradual lifting of restrictions following the COVID-19 pandemic. On the other hand, the risk of COVID-19 transmission continues. This study aimed to test the relationship between participants' experience quality and life satisfaction and the moderator role of the COVID-19 risk perception in this relationship within the scope of the Festival on Wheels (Gezici Festival) as a cultural festival.Design/methodology/approachThe data were collected by face-to-face and online survey techniques in Ankara, Sinop and Kastamonu cities in the context of the 26th Festival on Wheels. A total of 130 questionnaires were collected, and structural equation modelling was applied to the data analysis.FindingsAccording to the findings, the experience quality with the dimensions of entertainment and escape has a significant effect on life satisfaction. On the other hand, the perceived risk of COVID-19 does not have a statistically significant effect on this relationship.Originality/valueThe results indicate that experience quality directly affects subjective life satisfaction, while the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on event experiences and outcomes has begun to disappear.eninfo:eu-repo/semantics/closedAccessFestivalLocal eventPandemicRisk perceptionExperienceLife satisfactionArticle14329430910.1108/IJEFM-10-2022-00772-s2.0-85158890499Q2WOS:000985833400001N/A