FOSDEM 2024: my experience, some notes and tech tips
Attendees reflect on FOSDEM 2024, praising its scale, strong open‑source community, and extensive video coverage while criticizing overcrowded rooms, poor ventilation, and the dreary, trash‑strewn setting of Brussels in winter. Many emphasize that the real value lies in networking, informal hallway conversations, kids’ workshops, and evening social events rather than attending talks live, which are often easier to follow via streams. Debates over diversity, COVID precautions, and whether the conference has outgrown its free university venue highlight broader tensions around inclusion, safety, and preserving FOSDEM’s character as it grows.
Transport & Getting There
- Multiple routes to campus: tram, very busy bus 71, or metro line 5 to Delta then bus 71 (reported as less crowded).
- Biking has improved but is still imperfect; many rely on rental bikes/scooters plus walking.
- Some find Brussels public transport “sucks” unless you’re well-located; others say it’s among the best in Belgium, with a convenient card system and easy card payments.
Venue, Crowding & Health
- Campus is seen as logistically impressive but at or beyond capacity: narrow hallways, small devrooms, long queues, frequent “room full” situations.
- Poor ventilation and overcrowded rooms lead several attendees to report getting sick (“FOSDEM flu”) and recommend masks and hand hygiene.
- Debate over masking: some see the lack of a mandate as contradicting diversity/inclusion messaging; others argue people have accepted COVID risk and mandates would now exclude more than they include.
- Strategy advice: pick one devroom or area for half a day rather than room‑hopping; skip keynotes and watch recordings later.
Talks, Video & Content
- Strong praise for the video team: nearly all talks recorded, making it viable to skip in-person sessions.
- Historical anecdotes about early DIY recording setups; current quality generally praised, though some 2024 talks reportedly had overdriven audio.
- Many say FOSDEM is better for hallway conversations and stands than for learning via live talks.
Social Experience, Networking & Kids
- Frequently described as excellent for meeting old friends, making new contacts, and informal dinners/BOFs.
- Some first-timers found it hard to connect without existing contacts but still plan to return.
- Kids’ workshops (e.g., Microblocks, MIT App Inventor, Hedy) are highlighted as engaging for roughly 7–10+; positive experiences bringing children.
Diversity & Inclusion Debate
- One attendee called it a “white boys club”; others strongly disagreed, citing visible trans inclusion and more women compared to past years.
- Long subthread on whether focusing on visible demographics vs. “diversity of thought” is appropriate, with sharp disagreement and accusations of racism/sexism in both directions.
- No consensus on diversity; participants largely agree it reflects broader IT demographics in the region.
Brussels Impressions
- Common complaints: trash handling (complex bag system, visible waste), lack of public toilets, drab winter weather, and some safety/pickpocket concerns.
- Others note the city is walkable, generally safe with usual big-city caveats, and that certain bar areas are heavily touristic but still fun.