Geographical analysis of human pressure related to festive events: applications to management of the celebration of Saint John’s Eve on the urban beach of Las Canteras (Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain)

Abstract

An analysis is undertaken from a geographical perspective of the effects of the celebration of Saint John’s Eve on the urban beach of Las Canteras (Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain). A spatio-temporal study of the distribution of people is performed by analysing synchronous photographs taken at different points on the beach which are subsequently processed through geographic information systems. The results allow the sectorization of where and when the carrying capacity of the beach is exceeded, as well as determination of the relationship between the most congested areas and the location of the stage where the events are performed. Overall, the findings provide useful information for management of the beach as, together with other reports, they serve to technically justify relocation of the activities undertaken outside the beach environment in order to preserve its sustainable use.