Side events have a longstanding tradition at Hacker Summer Camp. Some, like Queercon, have become destinations on their own, and Security BSides spawned a series of events around the world. By and large, these events are run by passionate volunteers, many have formed formal non-profit corporations, and all serve the community from which they came. The official DEF CON 34 Parties, Meetups, and Events page and Communities page are the best places to find current details on locations, times, and agendas.
Queercon
Queercon, a non-profit with thousands of members, is the largest LGBTQIA+ security group in the world. What started as a hacker party inside DEF CON has grown into a worldwide social network of LGBTQIA+ hackers, and its mixers at DEF CON — designed for LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies to meet, network, and engage to a backdrop of music and refreshments — remain a fixture of the week.
The Diana Initiative
The Diana Initiative, founded in 2015, focuses on increasing representation of women, gender non-conforming, and non-binary people in the information security community. During Hacker Summer Camp they host TDI @ DEF CON activities, meetups, and a Quiet Room — a library-vibes space where anyone can calm down and recharge. Check their events page for this year’s schedule.
Lawyer Meetup AKA the DEF CON Bar Association
It may surprise you, but some lawyers are also hackers (and vice-versa) and have been attending DEF CON for a long time. Attending lawyers practice in varying capacities: private practice, public non-profits, government, and solo-practitioners. Each year the lawyers organize to catch up, talk shop, and network. All lawyers or legal professionals are welcome to join — check the DEF CON 34 meetups page for time and location.
DEF CON Shoot
Many DEF CON attendees with military and law enforcement backgrounds may enjoy DEF CON Shoot, the long-running pop-up shooting range held just before the conference.
Friends of Bill W.
Friends of Bill W. meetings are held daily during DEF CON for those in recovery. Times and locations are listed on the DEF CON 34 meetups page.
DEAF CON
DEAF CON is a non-profit organization that encourages deaf and hard of hearing individuals within the information security and hacker communities to attend conferences. They have been facilitating communication and providing a platform for networking with others since 2011. Check the DEF CON 34 Communities page for their current presence.