ABSTRACT. – Open access events and tourism impact on economy. Case study: “Hora de la Prislop”, Borşa – Maramureş. Open access events have developed to a great extent over the past few years. Such events are those which take place entirely or partly in an area where the access is not controlled. Located in the south-eastern extremity of the Maramureş Land, the Prislop Pass enjoys a remarkable festival every year, usually taking place on the second Sunday of August. The event has evolved from a pastoral gathering, as it was mentioned in writing for the first time in 1373. The festival takes place outdoors, at 1416 m above sea level, around a main stage, with the audience placed in a huge natural amphitheatre. During the event one can visit various exhibitions of master craftsmen, as well as a variety of areas for the tradesmen. The festival is preceded by a religious service at the Prislop Monastery, which is located nearby, built in honour of the fallen heroes of the World War II. Our work tries to present an assessment of the economic impact of tourism associated with this festival in the year 2010, as it could become in the future an even greater attraction for the Romanian and foreign tourists.
Keywords: festival, tradesmen, tourists, exhibition, impact of tourism.