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Sports event research has displayed gaps in the analysis of different stakeholders' perspectives and satisfaction levels. Consequently, this study aims at laying bare real-time experiences of event stakeholders via a unique mixed method research approach for explaining stakeholder satisfaction. Data were gathered on occasion of the 2016 International Children's Games in Innsbruck, Austria via mobile ethnography using an app (n = 103), semi-structured interviews (n = 24), and participatory observations. Stakeholders' experiences were analyzed with the confirmation/disconfirmation paradigm, revealing that catering, transport, and organization can be classified as essential factors, whereas performance factors comprise competitions, daily work, and atmosphere. The findings contribute to the sports event and tourism literature (1) by analyzing the main stakeholders' perceptions along the entire event journey during the 2016 ICG and (2) by aiming to gather a deeper comprehension of processes among sports event stakeholders with a mixed methodological approach (mobile ethnographical app, interviews and participatory oberservations). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article sheds light on results from a quantitative on-site visitor satisfaction survey (n=8,093), a post-event analysis based on a subsequent quantitative analysis (n=25) and five qualitative interviews with key decision makers involved in the UEFA EURO 2008™. Based on a dual importance grid analysis, key success factors in organising mega sports events have been identified, particularly with respect to fan zones and public viewings. Comfort in fan zones was identified as an excitement factor for visitors, while pre-match entertainment is often over-estimated by event organisers. Creating a good atmosphere is an important performance factor, while a general level of safety is perceived as a basic factor by event visitors. Furthermore, the paper in hand reveals discrepancies in event perception between different stakeholder groups, such as visitors, event right holders and event organisers. It became evident that the event organisers' views differ significantly from those of the spectators and that consideration of spectators' interests is crucial to organising fan zones successfully. In conclusion, experts commented on the results and highlighted the importance of external factors such as general organisation, weather and location of the fan zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]