A cultural district is a vibrant, mixed-use area of a city in which a high concentration of cultural facilities and related activities serve as the anchor of attraction. Typically, the area is geographically defined (usually less than 100 blocks) and incorporates other land uses such as retail, entertainment, education and commerce.

Cultural districts can boost cities’ attractiveness and competitiveness in many ways. The arts beautify, enliven and animate an area. The arts and their attendant support services, such as administration and marketing, provide employment. Cultural activities attract residents and tourists, who also support adjacent businesses such as restaurants, lodging, and retail. The presence of the arts enhances property values, the profitability of surrounding businesses and the vibrancy and vitality of the city. The arts attract a well-educated work force – a key incentive for new and relocating businesses. Finally, the arts contribute to the creativity and innovation of a community.

While many cities have long been cultural destinations by virtue of history, dozens of cities around the world are now actively competing with each other and with these long established destinations by purposefully creating their own arts and cultural districts which serve to enhance their appeal and competitiveness. In this age of globalization, where labour and ideas know few borders and boundaries, cultural districts can provide the competitive advantage which makes the vital difference to developing lasting tourism and attracting upscale workers.