Event promoters employment up 174 percent since 2001

For many people, attending note-worthy events like concerts or music festivals are the highlights of the summer. Here’s a look at employment in the industry that lets us know where to find this summer fun. Promoters of performing arts, sports, and similar events are the organizations that manage performing arts productions, sports competitions, and similar events including air shows, arts festivals, carnivals, fairs, horse shows, and rodeos. In 2024, employment in this industry averaged 182,307.

During 2024, average employment in promoters of performing arts, sports, and similar events was 174 percent higher than its average of 66,585 in 2001. In comparison, over the same period, total private industry employment increased 21 percent.

Employment in this industry typically varies from one month to the next throughout the year, usually reaching its lowest level in January and employing the most workers during August, September, or October. In some years, its maximum employment might be 20 to 30 percent higher than its minimum.

These data are from the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW) program and are calculated with data in quarterly reports from establishments covered by the unemployment insurance program. Employment that is not covered by unemployment insurance (for example, the self-employed) is not included in QCEW data. Note that promoters, as separate organizations that handle logistics, scheduling, and other details, including advertising, marketing, and ticket sales, are distinct from those organizations that produce their own performances, such as theater and dance companies, and musical groups.