Top 7 Tips For Hosting Your Side Event During Devconnect in Buenos Aires

1. Choose a Venue That Creates the Perfect Atmosphere for Your Devconnect Side Event

The right venue sets the tone for the entire event. In Buenos Aires, you’ll find everything from historic cafés and industrial-chic warehouses to vibrant rooftop bars. The best choice depends on the experience you want to create. 

A technical workshop, for example, will obviously benefit from a space with strong WiFi, plenty of power outlets, and comfortable seating for note-taking or laptop use. A networking event, on the other hand, will thrive in a more open environment where people can move around easily, find a quiet corner for deep conversation, or step outside for some fresh air.

Being close to Devconnect's main venues makes it easier for guests to attend as they won't have to spend time navigating the city. If exclusivity is a priority, Buenos Aires has hidden speakeasies and private lofts that offer a more curated experience. 

Whatever the choice, the venue should feel intentional — not just a random space, but a setting that reinforces the purpose of the event.

2. Devconnect Event Planning Tip: Pay Attention to Time Slots

With numerous events taking place—often at the same time—during Devconnect, strategic scheduling is just as crucial as the event itself. 

A poorly timed event can struggle to draw attendees, no matter how strong the content. The key is to plan around the main conference schedule and other important side events. Holding an event during a high-profile panel means competing for attention, while scheduling too late in the evening could mean losing attendees through fatigue.

Mornings are ideal for low-key discussions over coffee, providing a fresh start to the day before attendees dive into more intensive sessions. Late afternoons, on the other hand, provide a natural transition period, allowing people to take a break before heading out for evening activities. 

Don't forget about the nightlife in Buenos Aires. Over here, 10 pm is not late, it's just when the city starts to come alive. Depending on the audience, a late-night meeting can actually be a perfect fit, blending in with the vibrant energy of the city.

3. Bring in the Local Culture for a Unique Experience

The key to a standout Devconnect side event? Make it an experience that is different, not just another networking session. Give people something fresh, something they’ll actually want to talk about—long after the conference wraps up. 

One way to do this is by embracing the local culture. Food and drink make an immediate impression, and Buenos Aires has plenty to offer. Serving Argentine classics such as empanadas, choripánn, and dulce de leche pastries brings a taste of the city to the event. 

Beyond food, incorporating elements of the Buenos Aires arts and music scene can enhance the atmosphere. A live DJ playing electro-tango or a soft jazz trio can add to the ambience without overpowering conversation. 

Even small touches, such as using event visuals inspired by Argentine street art or choosing a venue with a strong local identity, can help make the event feel more immersive. 

The goal isn't to turn the meeting into a tourist experience, but to create an environment that blends naturally with the energy of the city.

4. Devconnect Side Event Advice: Keep the Format Engaging and Unstructured

Attendees will spend the entire week absorbing dense technical content, so it is important that side events offer something different. 

Traditional panels and lectures can feel redundant, especially after hours of conference sessions. Instead, we suggest keeping things interactive and informal. 

Fireside chats allow for in-depth discussions without the stiffness of a structured panel. Hands-on experiences, such as live product demos or interactive Q&A sessions, encourage participation rather than passive listening.

Casual mixers work well when the space and layout allow for easy movement and natural conversation. 

A good event doesn't force people into awkward networking situations, but creates an environment where connections happen organically. Thoughtful details, whether it's seating arrangements, background music or an interesting activity, help set the tone.

5. Make Your Event Easily Accessible

Even the best-planned event can suffer if guests can't find it. Buenos Aires is a large and sometimes unpredictable city when it comes to navigation. A Devconnect guide to Buenos Aires wouldn't be complete without mentioning the importance of clear directions. Providing a pinned Google Maps location, detailed instructions, and nearby transport options makes a big difference.

If the event is taking place in a hidden speakeasy or unconventional location, give your guests clear details in advance. QR codes with instant directions, designated meeting points, or even a contact point for last-minute questions can prevent unnecessary confusion. 

The entry process should also be smooth. Long check-in lines or complicated guest lists can cause frustration before the event even begins. A seamless arrival experience sets the stage for a positive event.

6. Devconnect Event Planning Tip: Curate Your Guest List for the Right Energy

Who’s in the room matters just as much as where the event takes place. A strong guest list keeps the event engaging and productive. 

Open-invite events can work well for larger meetups, but smaller, more curated gatherings often lead to better conversations. Using Twitter, Telegram, and private invitations ensures the right people hear about the event.

An RSVP system helps with planning, avoiding overcrowding or, on the flip side, an event that feels too empty. If exclusivity is part of the experience, an invite-only approach adds a layer of curation that can make the gathering feel more intentional. 

Providing a clear event description — who it’s for, what to expect, and why it’s worth attending — helps set expectations and attract the right crowd.

7. Expect the Unexpected

Even the best-organized Devconnect side event can face surprises. Buenos Aires has unpredictable weather, so an outdoor event should always have a backup plan. A portable hotspot can save the day if WiFi turns out to be unreliable. Stocking extra drinks and food ensures that if attendance exceeds expectations, there’s still enough for everyone.

Transportation can be another challenge. Ride-sharing services might surge in pricing at peak hours, and public transport doesn’t always run late into the night. Having alternative travel suggestions, such as local taxi apps or nearby subway stations, can be helpful for guests to navigate the city. 

Small preparations prevent last-minute stress and keep things running smoothly.

Wrapping Up

Hosting a Devconnect side event is about more than just bringing people together — it’s about crafting an experience that adds to the week’s energy and leaves a lasting impression. 

Buenos Aires provides the perfect backdrop, but success comes down to planning. Choosing the right venue, scheduling wisely, embracing local culture, and keeping things interactive all contribute to a strong event. 

With a balance of preparation and flexibility, a side event can turn into one of the most talked-about gatherings of Devconnect.