Abstract

In this conceptual article we examine the interrelationships between two fields of study, specifically the real and potential contributions of leisure studies to event studies. Furthermore, we consider the evolution of the two fields, philosophical discourses and theories associated with both. Epistemologically, both event and leisure studies have drawn heavily from the same foundation disciplines when focusing on motivation, experience, and benefits. Ontologically, event studies seeks to develop distinct concepts that differentiate planned event experiences and the meanings attached to them, but there are definitely shared areas of knowledge with leisure studies. Specific leisure philosophies, and theories are examined as to their current and potential application within event studies, and insights are provided about how these two closely related fields can cooperate in the future for their mutual benefit.