WordCamp US to Experiment With A Community Bazaar

In addition to taking place in a new location this year, WordCamp US will have a Community Bazaar. An area will be set aside in the venue allowing those chosen to showcase their WordPress communities. Raquel Landefeld, Randy Hicks, and Dustin Meza are organizing the Bazaar.

Landefeld says the idea was inspired by the people who make up the WordPress Community. “We recognize that some local WordPress communities are thriving and some are just getting started,” she said.

“What better way to help build community then by showcasing our local communities to the world. The thought is that smaller, newer, and communities just in their infancy, will be inspired with fresh ideas and or how-tos from the bigger and more established WordPress communities.”

The idea is similar to that of a science fair where each community chosen will have a space to highlight why theirs is awesome.

The purpose of the event is to inspire growth while providing an opportunity for communities to learn from each other. There will also be metrics shared such as, number of meetup and WordCamp attendees, meetups per month, and unique qualities pertaining to the local groups.

The organizing team is looking for the inside scoop on local communities. “This is all about you and your local WordPress community,” Landefeld said.

“This is your time to shine. Why is your community different, special, or amazing? Be showy! Forget modesty. Let your community’s awesomeness be a tool to inspire other WP communities just getting started or striving.”

Last year saw record growth for WordPress community events. In 2016, more than 62,566 people attended a local meetup in 58 countries and about one-third of those were new members. A total of 115 WordCamps were hosted in 41 different countries.

Those interested in participating in the Bazaar are encouraged to fill out the following submission form and provide as many details as possible.