One of the most satisfying things you can do is get involved in the WordPress community. There hasn’t been a community I’ve been a part of that is as supportive, approachable, and friendly as the WordPress community.
I’ve already written about the various ways to become involved in the WordPress community—from helping on support forums, to contributing to WordPress core. One of the best ways to engage and get involved with the WordPress community (or any community for that matter) is to gather together, share ideas, and network. That is what WordCamps are all about.
What is a WordCamp?
Haven’t heard of WordCamps before? The official WordCamp Central website describes them as such:
“WordCamps are informal, community-organized events that are put together by WordPress users like you. Everyone from casual users to core developers participate, share ideas, and get to know each other.”
Whether you’re just beginning to use WordPress, or a seasoned veteran, there is so much to learn from attending WordCamps.
And the great part is, they are literally everywhere. To date, there are 346 WordCamps, in 172 cities, in 48 countries.
WordCamps you should attend
I’m going to be egotistical here for a moment. I’ve created a list of WordCamps you should attend, based solely on the fact that I plan to attend them :).
Of course, there are a bunch that aren’t on this list. So I highly recommend you check out the full schedule of WordCamps at http://central.wordcamp.org/schedule/. If you are interested in attending any, get tickets fast because these events sell out quickly.
1. WordCamp Miami
Date: May 30th & 31st
Location: Florida International University
I actually just bought my plane tickets for Miami and am greatly looking forward to this. In addition to the WordCamp, they will be hosting a BuddyCamp (conference for BuddyPress), as well as a Front End WordPress Theme course on May 29th. They will also have a business track with sessions centered around the business of WordPress.
2. WordCamp Orange County
Date: June 6th & 7th
Location: Orange County Department of Education
Sadly, this WordCamp has already sold out. I made sure to grab tickets as soon as they were available (they go that fast). However, the website recommends to follow them on Facebook or Twitter to get up-to-date information on ticket releases.
I’m extremely excited for this event. Not only am I just a 45 minute drive away, but many of the best minds in WordPress will be attending this event—including some of my friends.
3. WordCamp Denver
Date: June 13th & 14th
Location: SpringHill Suites Denver Downtown
At this time, WordCamp Denver has not yet announced their speaker list, but tickets did just officially open. I actually bought my tickets as I was writing this article.
I’m particularly excited for this event because Denver and its surrounding areas have a nice, growing tech industry. Check out this map from NewTech to see all the companies, accelerators, and investors based in the Denver area.
4. WordCamp NYC
Date: October 30th – November 1st
Location: New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge
I love New York City. Add WordPress to the mix and I’m there. This WordCamp is still looking for speakers and volunteers. But the best part about this WordCamp is the website’s word of warning, which I quote:
“PS: Yes, WordCamp NYC coincides with Halloween! We promise: all treats, no tricks, and costumes are not required.”
WordCamps that are still in their early stages
Here are a couple of WordCamps that are farther out on the horizon. If you visit the site, you’ll find a sign-up form to subscribe for more information as it becomes available.
1. WordCamp Vegas
Who can say no to Vegas? Anybody who has been to a conference in Vegas comes home saying what a great time they had.
2. WordCamp Los Angeles
I grew up in the Los Angeles area, so I absolutely have to attend. And I checked out the speaker list from last year. They attract some amazing people doing amazing things who have awesome things to teach us.
What WordCamps will you be attending?
As I mentioned, there are some WordCamps I didn’t list here that I sadly won’t be attending (time constraints). But if there are any you plan to attend and are looking forward to, let me know in the comments below and be sure to include a link to it!
And remember, you can find a complete schedule of all WordCamps at central.wordcamp.org.
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