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KotlinConf 2024 - what is this all about?

KotlinConf isn't just your average tech conference; it's a vibrant celebration of all things Kotlin! Picture this: a buzzing gathering where developers, innovators, and Kotlin enthusiasts from around the globe come together to geek out over their favourite programming language. But how did it all start?

Origins

Well, let's rewind to a few years back when the brilliant minds at JetBrains (the ones behind Kotlin) realised they had something special on their hands. They saw Kotlin's enduring presence in the market and growing love for Kotlin in the developer community and thought, "Hey, why not bring everyone together under one roof to share ideas, learn from each other, and just have a great time?" And just like that, KotlinConf was born. The first edition took place in San Francisco, California in 2017, the same year that Android announced first-class support for Kotlin.

Fast forward to today, KotlinConf has become the go-to event for anyone passionate about Kotlin. It's not just about learning the latest Kotlin tricks and techniques (although there's plenty of that too!), but also about connecting with like-minded folks who share their love for clean, concise code. Don’t believe that? The KotlinConf highlights videos say everything.

Growth, Diversity, Success

Every year, KotlinConf gets bigger and better. From the sunny streets of San Francisco to the charming canals of Amsterdam, each conference is jam-packed with exciting talks, workshops, and networking opportunities. In 2017 the conference featured 45 great talks (carefully picked from 150 submissions) and invited 1200 passionate attendees from 46 countries. Four editions later, it noted 87 speakers presenting 83 sessions and 8 workshops.

Now approaching its fifth iteration, KotlinConf'24 stands as a testament to the conference's enduring appeal and significant growth. With projections aiming to welcome around 2,000 attendees, it is drawing near to a sell-out, boasting fewer than 10 tickets left available! By the time you read this article, they might be already all gone!

KotlinConf is a desirable event, and the tickets to each edition are selling out at an incredible pace. We can even recall a story from our backyard. In 2019, the moment when the tickets were released to the public a group of developers from Allegro Tech rushed to their boss to get permission for the trip and just a few days later, once the acceptance was given there were no tickets left. I guess they were not the only ones to see the “sold out” sign. Luckily JetBrains came forward and launched KotlinConf Global - an event organized by local Kotlin communities all over the world. With their support, KotlinConf reached developers in 41 countries and held 91 events and around 25,000 people tuned in to watch the conference online from their homes and offices.

Why?

What is so magnetic in this event that draws so much attention?

The incredible lineup of speakers who are experts in everything from Coroutines to Multiplatform development and the agenda filled up with different tracks covering various topics to suit the developers of all skill levels is definitely a huge magnet. On top of that, there are all kinds and sorts of attractions, from a party to a game area and a peaceful lounge where you can hide from all the noise.

But KotlinConf isn't just about what happens on stage; it's about and for the community that makes it all possible. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting with Kotlin, there's something for everyone.

The best part about Kotlin is the community. It's really exciting to be a part of the Kotlin movement.

So, if you're ready to dive headfirst into the world of Kotlin, there's no better place to be than KotlinConf. Come join us as we celebrate creativity, collaboration, and the endless possibilities of Kotlin. See you there in person and online! 🎉

More details about this year's edition: https://kotlinconf.com/