In a few weeks, thousands of people, veterans and newcomers alike, will descend on Miami for the annual Bitcoin Conference – the largest Bitcoin gathering in the world. It is a huge event for many people, showcasing the latest developments, products, etc. Most importantly, it brings together thousands of like-minded bitcoin enthusiasts to meet in person and discuss the future. These events weren’t always huge – they grew over time.
Over the past two years, due to government shutdowns, vaccination mandates, and COVID-19, many of these in-person events have not been able to take place. Many events have been forced to happen on Zoom. Fortunately, we live in a time where there is technology that can help us stay connected and allow these topics to persist, but one key element is lost. Face-to-face human interaction. There’s no amount of Zoom calls that can capture when people meet in person and share the “AH HA!” moment. When all that solo brainstorming finally comes together because you met another person and a certain question was asked or someone suggested something that only you couldn’t think of on your own.
How to meet?
There are plenty of bitcoin dating if you search for them; if there isn’t one, I suggest you be the one to start one in your area. The first place to start seeing if there are any in your area is Meetup, a great source for finding Bitcoin Meetups in your area. For example, in my area there is Longmont Bitcoin, Bitcoin & Beer and Denver BitDevs. These are just a few examples of the Meetup groups I’m in, and there are a handful more in my area as well. The second source, ask your bitcoin friend who pestered you to “buy the dip” forever, and you will also find out where he disappeared once a week.
Why meet in person?
These in-person meetings are great for everyone from Bitcoin newbies to longtime veterans. There is always something to learn at these events. Now, no matter which group you join, you will learn the environment and knowledge level of those around you. As such, the groups I mentioned above vary: some are just for meeting up, grabbing a beer, and keeping up to date with events and news surrounding Bitcoin. Denver BitDev, however, discusses a deeper technical level of the developments coming out in the space. You too will learn more about your group and those who participate in it, remember to keep an open mind during these events. Everyone is there for the same reason – to talk about Bitcoin and everything around it. It’s amazing to see the enthusiasm of people who engage, ask questions, share ideas or their knowledge. Again, this is for all skill levels, don’t feel or be intimidated by this. Give it a go and I guarantee you’ll have a great conversation with just about anyone at any level.
Now see you!
Now that the warrants have mostly been lifted, get up and get out! Maybe get a new outfit, a cut or a new hairstyle, a dry cleaning that’s been dragging on for two years. Anyway, go for it! Attend these Bitcoin meetups, learn, share, collaborate, be open-minded and above all, participate. You never know who you’ll meet or what you’ll learn next. The Bitcoin community is booming. Participation is what helps drive adoption and product developments. So go ahead, be part of it.
Bitcoin 2023 will be the biggest event in Bitcoin history, with an unprecedented range of technical, cultural, and financial advancements being made in the space. To guarantee your place at the event, use discount code “MAGAZINE” for 10% off ticket prices at https://b.tc/conference/registration.
Bitcoin Magazine is operated by BTC Inc, which also hosts the Bitcoin Conference Series.
This is a guest post by Anthony Feliciano. The opinions expressed are entirely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of BTC Inc or Bitcoin Magazine.