We made it to 2024! Let’s see what’s coming at us. As we step into this promising year, I’m thrilled to share with you a curated list of the most anticipated events.

This year promises a blend of innovation, technology, and community experiences that are not to be missed. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a creative soul, or simply someone who loves to stay ahead of the curve, there’s something for everyone. From groundbreaking tech conferences to cultural festivals that celebrate our diversity and creativity, 2024 is packed with opportunities to learn, grow, and connect. So, let’s dive in and explore the events that will shape our year, offering us chances to broaden our horizons, make new connections, and create unforgettable memories.

RoboCup Junior Qualifications

The RoboCup Junior Qualifications 🔗 take place in multiple places. One is Vöhringen and it’s is shaping up to be an event brimming with innovation and excitement, scheduled for the 2nd and 3rd of March at the Wolfgang-Eychmüller-Haus in Vöhringen. This event is part of the larger RoboCup initiative, a prestigious global competition that has been advancing the field of robotics since its inception in 1997.

At the RoboCup Junior Vöhringen, the young participants will compete in various leagues including Rescue (Line Entry, Line, Maze Entry, Maze) and Soccer (1vs1 Standard Kit, 1vs1 LWL, 2vs2 LWL, 2vs2 Open), as well as the OnStage league. These competitions showcase the current skills of robots in diverse scenarios, from navigating complex mazes to playing soccer - all build an programmed by scholars.

The RoboCup Junior Vöhringen is organized by RoCCI e.V. and is part of a series of qualification tournaments, with successful teams moving on to larger stages like the German Open or even the World Championship.

Easterhegg, Regensburg

Easterhegg 🔗 2024, a haven for technology enthusiasts, is set to unfold in Regensburg from March 29th to April 1st. This 21st edition, hosted by Binary Kitchen e.V., will take place at the Ostbayerische Technische Hochschule Regensburg, a fitting venue for such an innovative event. Easterhegg, an annual Easter meet-up by the Chaos Computer Club (CCC), stands out for its workshop-centric approach, fostering hands-on learning and active participation. Initiated in 2001 with a focus on radio and WLAN technologies, it has become a cherished tradition in the tech community. The event, known for its communal breakfast buffet and the iconic Easterhegg mug for attendees, embodies a spirit of community and inclusivity. With its rotating locations, Easterhegg allows various CCC groups to host, reflecting the CCC community’s commitment to keeping this unique gathering vibrant. Easterhegg 2024 in Regensburg promises an enriching experience for those who cherish technology, practical learning, and community spirit.

RoboCup German Open (Junior & Major), Kassel

The RoboCup German Open 🔗 2024, set to take place in Kassel from April 17th to 21st, is a spectacular event that promises to be a highlight of the year.

This year’s event, significant for both the Junior and Major Leagues, marks the reunion of these leagues after a pause due to the pandemic. The RoboCup presents a unique opportunity for researchers, students, and technology enthusiasts from various fields like robotics, AI, computer science, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering to showcase their cutting-edge developments. The competition includes diverse disciplines, with robot football being a central attraction, where robots play in different leagues, mirroring traditional football competitions.

The German teams are traditionally among the most successful participants, and the German Open serves as an essential stage for European teams. In 2024, the event expects to host 700-800 participants and will be a magnet for national and international attention. The RoboCup German Open is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of technological prowess and a showcase of the potential future of robotics and AI.

Gulaschprogrammiernacht Karlsruhe

Dive into the world of technology and creativity at the Gulaschprogrammiernacht 🔗 (GPN22) in Karlsruhe, happening from May 30 to June 2, 2024. This event, one of the largest of the Chaos Computer Club, started in 2002 in a basement and has grown into a significant gathering for tech enthusiasts. Organized by Entropia e.V., it’s not just for techies; GPN22 welcomes everyone with a curious mind.

Hosted at the Hochschule für Gestaltung (HfG) and Zentrum für Kunst und Medien (ZKM), GPN22 offers a unique blend of hacking, programming, and creative exploration. The heart of the event is the Hackcenter, where participants bring projects to life, often working through the night. A diverse range of workshops and talks cover everything from software development intricacies to net politics, with opportunities to learn soldering and electronics.

Summer Breeze Open Air, Dinkelsbühl

Celebrating its 25th edition from August 14th to 17th, this festival is set to electrify Dinkelsbühl, Germany, with an incredible lineup of over 125 bands, including the likes of Amon Amarth, Architects, Feuerschwanz, and many more. Summer Breeze Open Air 🔗 is renowned for its heavy metal music and promises to be a haven for over 40,000 metal enthusiasts. The festival’s whimsical name belies the intense and powerful experience it offers. With a history stretching over two decades, it’s established itself as a must-visit for those seeking an immersive metal music experience in the heart of Europe.

Sternenklang Festival, Kranichfeld

The Sternenklang Festival 🔗 2024 in Kranichfeld is taking place from June 6th to June 8th. This festival promises to be a magnificent celebration, combining music and medieval atmosphere. Music lovers can indulge in the sounds of gothic metal, with bands like Lacrimas Profundere gracing the stage. The festival also promises to be a family-friendly event, with special attractions and activities designed for children. Adding to the medieval flair, attendees can explore various stalls, partake in traditional crafts, and immerse themselves in the historical ambiance created by reenactment groups and artisanal displays. It’s an opportunity to step back in time, enjoy fantastic music, and create unforgettable memories.

Plärrer, Augsburg

The Augsburger Plärrer 🔗, a gem of Bavarian culture, will once again unfold its vibrant spectacle. This illustrious event, rooted in over a millennium of history, seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. Held twice a year, the Spring and Autumn editions

• Frühjahrsplärrer from March 31 to April 14,
• and Herbstplärrer from August 23 to September 8

each iteration of this festival is a celebration of Bavarian life at its best.

Over 70 stands offering food, games, and rides cater to all ages, ensuring a rich and varied experience. The festival’s atmosphere is further elevated by the presence of two major beer tents, Festzelt Binswanger and Festhalle Schaller, each providing a distinct ambiance. These tents are not just about beer; they’re cultural hubs offering a taste of local cuisine and social gatherings.

Fuggerstadt Rally & Fuggerstadt Volt, Augsburg

On September 29, 2024, the picturesque city of Augsburg will play host to the Fuggerstadt Rally & Volt 🔗, a remarkable event that merges the charm of classic motoring with the innovation of electric vehicles. The Fuggerstadt Classic, now in its tenth year, brings together around 100 vintage cars in a stunning display of automotive history. These vehicles, starting from the historic Hotel Maximilian’s on Maximilianstraße, embark on a scenic ~160-kilometer journey through the beauty of Augsburg and its neighboring regions. This event is not just about the rally; it’s a cultural festival where car enthusiasts, families, and spectators gather to celebrate the heritage of these magnificent machines.

Simultaneously, the Fuggerstadt Volt takes the stage, showcasing the future of driving with its electric rally. This segment of the event, emphasizing sustainability and eco-friendliness, offers a glimpse into the potential of electric vehicles. Participants in electric cars will navigate a carefully planned route, experiencing the thrill of modern technology while contributing to a cleaner environment. This dual aspect of the event - honoring the past while embracing the future - makes the Fuggerstadt Rally & Volt a unique and must-visit experience for car lovers and environmental advocates alike.

38C3, Hamburg

The 38th Chaos Communication Congress 🔗 (38C3), scheduled for 27th to 30th December 2024 in Hamburg, marks a continuation of a prestigious series of conferences organized by the Chaos Computer Club (CCC). This event is not just a conference; it’s a congregation of minds where technology, society, and utopian ideas converge.

As the largest European gathering in the hacker community and one of the most significant conferences on digital transformation, 38C3 offers an unparalleled platform for thousands of hackers, tech enthusiasts, artists, and visionaries to connect and exchange ideas. The Congress is renowned for its rich history as the longest-running German IT security conference and a pivotal European hacker gathering.

The essence of 38C3 is its diverse and comprehensive program. Attendees can look forward to an array of lectures, workshops, and events covering a vast range of topics. These include the critical-creative approach to technology, digital security, network infrastructure, and the societal impact of technological advancements. This event is a unique opportunity for participants to engage in a creative and skeptical discourse on the interplay between technology and society.