There are many extraordinary DIY projects hidden from the public eye, in the shadow of traditional exhibitions and other craft events. Maker faire is “a family-friendly festival of invention, creativity and resourcefulness, and a celebration of the Maker movement.” It’s an annual event brought to you by Maker Media.
The very first Maker Fair took place in the Bay Area in 2006. From this historic moment on, there have been tons of magnificent and creative projects presented. Not just that people learn about them, but they also meet the latest technologies and trends in the business. The idea was so well perceived by the public that different communities around the world began to organize independent fairs. Events on larger scale are organized in collaboration with Maker Faire. So called “Mini Maker Faires” are the events on a smaller scale, organized within communities.
New York’s Maker Faire is also called a “World Maker Fair.” And for a reason. This flagship event draws the highest attendance in the world for its kind. We asked Marketing & PR director, Bridgette Vanderlaan, what is the most rewarding thing about organizing such events: “I’m sure most of us would agree that one of the best parts of the Faire is seeing the collaboration, hard work and sheer genius of the Makers as they show up each year with their projects.” We are already looking forward to this year’s World Maker Faire (October 1&2, 2016) to see all latest smart and creative projects!
As mentioned, the first Maker Faire took place in San Mateo in 2006 and included over 100 exhibiting makers, workshops and DIY demonstrations. This year’s event will be held from the 20th to 22nd of May. Which will make it the 11th in a row! Mrs. Vanderlaan: “They (makers) love to share, teach and learn and that is what Maker Faire is all about,” she continued: “We love that we are able to provide a platform like Maker Faire around the world for attendees of all ages, who are able to learn by getting hands-on, face to face interactions with Makers.”
Just south of the English Channel, there is another interesting event. France’s largest Maker Faire will be held from the 30th of April to the 1st of May. Jean-Baptiste Le Clec’h: “We want to live in a better world, where everyone can live his dream.” Their endeavors are really up to the standard Mr. Le Clec’h shared with us.
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The first “greatest show (and tell) on the Earth” in Europe took place in Newcastle, UK. There will be the 7th annual, two-day event, from 23rd to 24th of April. The Life Science Centre in Newcastle will bring together over 300 makers and other enthusiasts once again!
The Maker Faire in Berlin doesn’t go way back in history, since the first one was held only last year. But it is definitely worth mentioning. Furthermore, they had to look for a bigger venue for this year (September 30 – October 2, 2016), since Postbanhoff was just almost too small for all the exhibitors, makers, hackers and others. They found it in Station Berlin. What makes last year’s event even more special for us, is that Red Pitaya was a part of the first annual Maker Faire in Berlin!
EXTRA
Apart from Maker Movement events (another one) we just had to put this on the list. The Open Source Hardware Association annually organizes the Open Hardware Summit. The Summit includes the best form the industry and maker community and is home to a variety of academic debates. Since its foundation in 2010, it is “a comprehensive conference” on open hardware, including a wide range of subjects – from professional issues, to just sharing simple DIY projects and ideas.
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