Technically, the C’s in EthCC stand for Community Conference, but for this year’s event they may as well be changed to Cannes. Both of them. Because it can’t be overstated just how awesome it is that EthCC has chosen the southern French resort for its annual conference.
Europe’s largest Ethereum-focused event will bring together developers, investors, and blockchain enthusiasts for four days of intensive networking, learning, and partying. And while some of that action will be unfolding as part of the main EthCC event, there’s a whole lot more been scheduled around the gathering, which kicks off on June 30.
EthCC week is packed with exciting side events that offer unique educational and community-building opportunities. Here are six side events you won’t want to miss, both on account of the people in attendance and the opportunities they present.
1. Pengu and Alice’s Beachfest by MNA and Pudgy Penguins
Hosted by MNA and Pudgy Penguins, Pengu and Alice’s Beachfest promises to capture the true spirit of France’s stunning South coast. Set against the Cannes coastline, the event combines Pudgy Penguins’ community spirit with a lively beach party atmosphere. Expect to catch all the T on the latest Pudgy rumors, exclusive announcements, and a chance to connect with creators and collectors in a relaxed setting.
With My Neighbor Alice and Pudgies now besties, following the latter’s establishment of a winter island within the former’s open-world game, this will be the first time the tribes have had a chance to meet IRL following the integration. There’ll be a lot to talk about.
2. AI x Crypto Sunset Beach Salon by GenLayer
AI can do a lot of things but can it enjoy a Cannes beach sunset? Hell naw – that’s the preserve of the humans building and interacting with artificial intelligence at its intersection with web3. And you’ll meet a whole bunch of those movers and shakers at GenLayer’s AI x Crypto Sunset Beach Salon. Your big brain hat is optional, but bucket hat is recommended. It’s gonna be toasty.
Hosted on the picturesque Cannes beach at sunset, this salon offers thought-provoking talks on how AI can enhance decentralized systems followed by informal networking sessions. Ideal for developers and innovators passionate about the future of web3 and AI, the event promises deep insights and meaningful connections. Even if you’re merely AI curious but are sold on sunsets, there’s a good chance you’ll have a very good time.
3. Avalanche Community Beach Break
Avalanche Community Beach Break ought to live up to its billing, providing a laid-back yet valuable gathering for Avalanche diehards as well as more casual interlopers. This beachside event will lift the lid on what’s cooking within the Avalanche ecosystem, with opportunities to meet core contributors and developers. Whether DeFi is your thing or enterprise is your game, Avalanche has a finger in many pies, and there’ll be ample opportunities for builders and investors working within these verticals to connect.
Of course, like any self-respecting side event, it won’t all be serious business. After all, most of the real work is done when the presentations have wound down, leaving time for one-to-ones at the beachfront bar, where there’ll be complimentary cocktails and nibbles. With demand expected to be high for the Avalanche community meet, you’re advised to RSVP sooner rather than later.
4. Stablecoin House
If you’d told your friends a few months back you were going to hang out at a Stablecoin House, they’d have done a double take. Not now. Stablecoins have gone stratospheric, aided by tailwinds ranging from the Circle IPO to the GENIUS Act and now everyone wants a piece. Stablecoin House is a bold experiment that will see a seaside villa on the Riviera converted into an unofficial command center for stablecoin builders.
Will the different devs get along or will Stablecoin House experience volatility? What can the sector’s brightest minds build in just three days? And how civilized or savage will the stablecoin debates be? There’s only one way to find out: mount up and mosey on over to the co-working space, which will also feature speakers operating on the frontlines of stablecoins and payments including CEOs from Stellar and Rain.
5. OPSEC WORKSHOP: Web3 Non-Code Security Roundtable
Opsec is serious business, which is why OPSEC WORKSHOP comes in all caps. This interactive session focuses on operational security best practices for non-technical aspects of blockchain projects, such as protecting private keys, securing communications, and mitigating social engineering risks. Led by seasoned security experts, this roundtable is ideal for founders, developers, and community managers looking to safeguard their projects.
While the workshop is invite-only, if you’d like to attend simply register in advance. It looks poised to be a valuable all-day session that’s packed with insights on how to implement opsec in every aspect of project management. After all, security is about much more than what happens on the protocol level. By working together, web3’s thinkers and builders can devise smarter solutions that will make the industry safer for everyone. OPSEC WORKSHOP is the forum where that will occur at EthCC.
6. Pragma Cannes by ETHGlobal
Pragma Cannes, hosted by ETHGlobal, is a one-day, single-track summit taking place on July 3 and will form the primary EthCC side event. Indeed, to call it a side event is doing it a disservice, for it’s packed with keynotes and fireside chats with leading lights including Vitalik himself who’ll close out the day’s proceedings.
Featuring high-quality talks, product demos, and keynotes from Ethereum pioneers, this event dives into the latest trends, challenges, and innovations that will shape the next narratives and metas coming soon to a blockchain near you. Its curated format is filled with highlights, and the attendee portal allows for pre-event networking. No one in their right minds will miss Pragma Cannes at EthCC this year.
Why These Events Slap
Like any festival – which is to all intents and purposes what EthCC is – it’s not enough to just be there. You have to be in the right places to catch the right people. With more inviting keynotes, workshops, and side gatherings than there is time to accommodate them, some events on your longlist won’t make the cut. Cull the following six at your peril, however, for they promise to cram in enough alpha and networking opportunities to keep your Telegram buzzing with new contacts for weeks.
Whether you’re looking to get all up on AI, see what the fuss is about stablecoins, or meet the investors and builders who can support your project, these side events provide unparalleled opportunities to learn and grow. Pack your sunscreen, bring a spare battery pack, and prepare to forgo sleep in search of the endless opportunities that EthCC Cannes has to offer.
