The assessment has also put the number of interstate or overseas visitors at more than 19,000 this year with box-office income a record $6 million.

"The Festival is such an important part of South Australia's identity and today, quite distinct from its enormous cultural significance, this result celebrates its importance in boosting our economy through cultural tourism," Festival chair Judy Potter said.

"Each year, the Adelaide Festival's economic impact has continued to steadily increase, providing a vital injection to the State's economy."

This year's festival involved 485 performances across 70 ticketed shows and included 10 world premieres.

Artistic director Rachel Healy said the financial success of the festival was a result of the event bringing audiences and communities together with the world's greatest performers, writers and artists.

"Indeed, it is the promise of these thrilling, communal experiences each March that has kept visitors from around Australia and across the world pouring into Adelaide," she said.

Australian Associated Press