What to Expect at WordCamp Europe 2024: Sessions, Workshops, and More
This year’s WordCamp Europe in Torino, Italy, offers a fresh community engagement and learning perspective. Instead of the usual conference format, picture a dynamic environment where attendees drive the experience. From interactive, hands-on sessions and collaborative workshops to informal meetups and lively discussions over coffee, the event is designed to spark creativity and foster genuine connections. Whether you’re attending to deepen your technical skills, find inspiration, or network with like-minded individuals, Torino provides the perfect backdrop for this unique gathering.
Event Details
Dates: June 13 – 15, 2024
Location: Lingotto Exhibition Centre. Torino, Italy
Tickets: Available for purchase here
Torino: A City of Innovation and Beauty
Torino, often celebrated as the ‘aristocratic old lady’ of Italy, boasts a rich history stretching over two millennia. Today, it is revered not only for its historical significance but also for its role as a dynamic hub of innovation. Known as the Automotive Capital of Italy, Torino has significantly influenced the development of the automobile industry. Beyond its industrial achievements, the city offers over 300 kilometres of lush, tree-lined avenues and parks, providing a tranquil retreat into nature. The nearby Western Alps are a breathtaking backdrop, perfect for adventure seekers.
Venue Highlights: The Lingotto Building
The conference will take place in the historic Lingotto Building, a former Fiat factory known for its architectural innovation, including a famous rooftop test track. This building, which has transitioned from an industrial powerhouse to a modern complex complete with shopping centers and entertainment venues, symbolizes the city’s successful blend of historical preservation and modernization.
Diverse and Engaging Sessions
This year’s lineup at WordCamp Europe features sessions that tackle the latest technical innovations, explore current design trends, address crucial business strategies, and emphasize accessibility improvements. The conference offers many opportunities for personal and professional growth, ensuring attendees have access to cutting-edge knowledge and industry insights.
Highlighted Sessions
Community
Keynote: Sustainable Open Source is the Future
Speakers: Joost de Valk, Juliette Reinders Folmer
Date/Time: June 14, 9:15 am – 10:00 am CEST
Location: Hall 1, Main Stage
Explore the strategic importance of open-source software and its future implications across industries.
Design and Development
Interactivity API: The New Standard Way to Build Modern WordPress Frontends
Speaker: Michał Czapliński
Date/Time: June 14, 10:15 am – 11:00 am CEST
Location: Hall 3, Sala Azzurra
Delve into new standards for building interactive WordPress frontends.
Legacy to Block: An In-Depth Look at Migrating a Legacy Website to Gutenberg
Speakers: Erika Gili, Luis Rosales
Date/Time: June 14, 2:30 pm – 3:15 pm CEST
Location: Hall 3, Sala Azzurra
Essential for developers transitioning to the Gutenberg editor.
Business and Strategy
The Art of Product
Speaker: Tammie Lister
Date/Time: June 14, 2:30 pm – 3:15 pm CEST
Location: Hall 1, Main Stage
Gain insights into product development within the WordPress ecosystem.
Accessibility
Digital and Linguistic Accessibility Techniques and Strategies for Deaf People
Speakers: Elena Panciera, Chiara Pennetta
Date/Time: June 14, 3:30 pm – 4:15 pm CEST
Location: Hall 3, Sala Azzurra
Important strategies for enhancing web accessibility for the deaf community are discussed.
The European Accessibility Act explained
Speaker: Rian Rietveld
Date/Time: 14 June 2024 16:30 CEST
Location: Hall 1, Main Stage
Special Features and Networking
WordCamp Connect
WordCamp Connect offers an open platform dedicated to fostering WordPress community participation. Led by seasoned community members, these sessions are designed as a collaborative space for brainstorming, engaging discussions, and collective creation. WordCamp attendees are invited to engage, share ideas, and make their voices heard. This year, the Community Team is proud to host five events during WCEU 2024.
Additionally, the organizers have wisely reduced the number of sessions to allow more time for valuable networking and discussions with sponsors, contributors, and other attendees.
Meet the Official Wapuu Mascots: Vespa Piaggio Wapuu and ‘Cinquecento’ Wapuu
For those who may not be familiar with it, a Wapuu is the official mascot of the WordPress community. The first Wapuu was designed by Kazuko Kaneuchi as a gift to the WordPress community and debuted in Japan at WordCamp Fukuoka in 2011. Since then, these charming mascots have become a global symbol of the community’s fun and friendly nature at WordCamp events.
WordCamp Europe 2024 has unveiled its two official Wapuu mascots, each embodying the rich cultural and industrial heritage of Torino, the host city for the event:
Vespa Piaggio Wapuu: This Wapuu rides a classic Vespa Piaggio scooter, first manufactured in 1946 and an emblem of Italy’s economic recovery post-World War II. The Vespa is not just a scooter; it symbolizes Italian style, freedom, and mobility, frequently featured in films like “Roman Holiday” and celebrated in numerous cultural expressions.
‘Cinquecento’ Wapuu: The other Wapuu cruises in a Fiat 500, affectionately known as the “Cinquecento.” Introduced in 1957, this car became a symbol of Italy’s economic boom, offering affordable mobility to the masses. Its iconic design and cheerful spirit have made it a beloved symbol of Italian creativity and ingenuity.
These mascots were brought to life thanks to the creative talents of Eleonora Anzini, a brand and graphic designer from Italy who is also actively involved in organizing local WordPress Meetups.
Happy WordCamping!
As you immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of WordCamp, be sure to make the most of every workshop, session, and spontaneous conversations that make these events a source of invaluable insights and opportunities. While navigating through the bustling halls of the Lingotto Building or participating in social gatherings, keep an eye out for our team members. If you spot someone from our team, don’t hesitate to say hello! We love meeting fellow WordPress enthusiasts and sharing our experiences and ideas.
Happy WordCamping! We look forward to seeing you in Torino and making WordCamp Europe 2024 an unforgettable journey together.
