EVENT (OVER)TOURISM IN OHRID (NORTH MACEDONIA): CRITICAL THINKING

Ohrid is the most famous summer tourism destination in North Macedonia attracting approximately twice as many tourists in the main season as there are residents. This study offers critical thinking on the significant adverse effects of over tourism. More specifically, it openly discusses sustainability challenges from excessive visitation of cultural events, particularly live music concerts during the summer peak season. The study concludes the importance of introducing a monitoring system along with strategic involvement in a comprehensive manner of all levels stakeholders to adequately prevent detrimental effects on the uniqueness of the destination. It also encourages the establishment of systems for assessing domestic visitors and day trippers as the largest challenge to effectively cope with overcrowding events. Finally, the results open a discussion on how sustainable tourism growth may be maintained in the face of serious issues brought up by cultural events.