Dunoon the popularity of overseas travel increased. In 1961, during the height of the Cold War, Dunoon became a garrison town to the United States Navy. In 1992, they closed their Holy Loch base, and Dunoon suffered an economic downturn. Since the base's closure, the town and surrounding area are again turning to tourism, marketing to outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife lovers as well as promoting festivals and competitions. The largest annual event held in the town is the Cowal Highland Gathering. The Royal National Mòd has been held in the town seven times and in 2018 will again be held at
2017 Scottish Rally Championship Beaton were declared champions in their Ford Fiesta R5. With only one event left to run the pair were uncatchable in the points table. For season 2017 there was seven events held predominantly on gravel surfaces. Due to calendar changes within the British Rally Championship, the "Scottish Rally", usually held in June was brought forward to May. June, meanwhile welcomed a new event to the calendar, the "Argyll Rally" which saw a return to the forests of Cowal after an absence of 14 years. Points are awarded to the highest placed registered drivers on each event as follows: 30, 28,