Python Conference Changes Venue to Accommodate Growth

World's largest Python event returns to Chicago

CHICAGO - October 20, 2008 - PyCon 2009, the seventh annual Python community conference, will take place March 27 to 29 at Chicago's Hyatt Regency O'Hare hotel.

In 2008, its first year in Chicago, PyCon stunned organizers by drawing over 1000 attendees, up from 586 in 2007 and 410 in 2006. To avoid running out of room in 2009, organizers have moved next year's conference to Chicago's Hyatt Regency from the Crowne Plaza Chicago O'Hare, its 2008 venue.

"The continued growth of PyCon keeps us on our toes. Each year's new attendees bring new energy to the community with their enthusiasm and their creativity - not to mention their sheer numbers; we changed venues to accommodate expected growth. It's an exciting time to be in the Python community", said David Goodger, PyCon chair.

PyCon, an entirely volunteer-run conference, encompasses topics across the breadth of Python usage, from core language design to dynamic web applications. PyCon includes hundreds of regular talks, keynotes, Lightning Talks, hands-on laboratories, and informal Open Space events, as well as a sponsors' expo hall. PyCon 2009's main conference days (March 27-29) will be preceded by two days of intensive, half-day tutorials - increased from last year's single day due to their popularity. After the conference, many attendees will stay for four days (March 30 - April 2) of development "sprints" - cooperative programming workshops that advance selected open-source projects.

About Python

Python is an open-source, dynamically typed, object-oriented programming language that can be used in nearly the entire range of technology applications. It offers an easy learning curve and access to a vast array of libraries. Python has shown steady growth in the TIOBE index and has advanced from position 8 to 6 in the past year. With implementations available for all common operating systems as well as the Java and .NET platforms, Python can be used on virtually any system in existence. Like other open-source, dynamic languages, it offers rapid productivity and a vigorous developer community; at the same time, Python's clarity and reliability give confidence to enterprise users. The upcoming production release of Python 3.0 marks a major milestone in Python's history, bringing new levels of clarity, consistency, and power to Python code.

About PyCon

Presented by the Python Software Foundation, the world’s largest Python conference brings together a diverse group of developers, enthusiasts, and organizations to explore new challenges, launch new businesses and forge new connections within the Python community. PyCon provides attendees with the opportunity to delve into the dynamic programming language employed by well-known companies such as Google, Cisco, and the New York Times. PyCon helps people learn new tools and techniques, showcase projects, and meet other Python fans.

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See PyCon 2009 press releases at http://us.pycon.org/2009/about/press/