HPR4297: Let me tell you a bit about FOSDEM

Hacker Public Radio

A Brief History of FOSDEM Founded in 2001 by Raphaël Bauduin as OSDEM. First event held at Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) with ~200 attendees. Grew to become one of the largest open-source events globally. Core values : Free to attend, volunteer-run, and vendor-neutral. The FOSDEM 2025 Program 50+ devrooms , each dedicated to specific topics or communities: Embedded systems, Python, decentralized internet, documentation, and more. Highlighted keynotes : Talks from prominent figures in the open-source community. Topics addressing the future of open-source collaboration and technology. FOSDEM Junior track : Workshops and talks designed for younger attendees. All content in English, which could be a challenge for some kids. Lightning talks : 15-minute presentations showcasing a variety of projects and ideas. Side-Events: Bytenight and More Bytenight : Casual evening gathering for networking and unwinding. Offers a relaxed, vibrant atmosphere to share ideas and connect. Unofficial FOSS-Nerds-Only Party at HSBXL : Known informally as "Bytenight at HSBXL." A private gathering for open-source enthusiasts and contributors. Hosted at the Hackerspace Brussels (HSBXL) , providing an intimate, nerd-centric atmosphere. Includes engaging conversations, demonstrations of projects, and a chance to meet like-minded individuals in a more exclusive setting. Other informal meetups and social events scattered across Brussels. Enter OFFDEM: An Open-Source Evolution What is OFFDEM? Stands for "Off FOSDEM." Created as an alternative for those unhappy with FOSDEM's corporate tone . Prioritizes informal, experimental, and non-commercial discussions . Key features : Decentralized gathering with workshops, art installations, and unconference-style sessions. Reflects the diversity and adaptability of the open-source community. Complementary to FOSDEM : Not a competition but an extension of the open-source ethos. Why FOSDEM Matters Celebration of open-source values : Collaboration, transparency, and freedom. Opportunities : Exchange ideas, launch projects, and strengthen communities. Inclusivity : A space for everyone, from seasoned contributors to newcomers. Wrapping Up Key takeaways : FOSDEM showcases the best of community-driven initiatives. Side-events like Bytenight and OFFDEM highlight the evolving open-source spirit. Join the conversation : Share your experiences, must-visit devrooms, or favorite talks. Webpages