LibreLocal 2026: Organize a Free Software Meetup This May | FSF

May is almost here, and with it, another opportunity to connect with the free software community through LibreLocal. The Free Software Foundation (FSF) is once again encouraging supporters to organize in-person meetups throughout the month, fostering collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and celebration of free software principles. This initiative, which saw its debut in 2025, proved remarkably successful, with twenty-nine meetups held across five continents last year.

Last year’s gatherings spanned a diverse range of locations, including Brazil, Canada, the Canary Islands (Spain), China, Croatia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, France, Germany, Greece, India, Iran, Kenya, Poland, Romania, Russia, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The format of these meetups varied considerably, from casual conversations to multi-day conferences, demonstrating the flexibility and adaptability of the LibreLocal concept. The FSF provides resources to help organizers, recognizing that the core value lies in locally-driven initiatives.

A group of free software supporters at a meetup in Kinshasa, DRC

Building on Momentum

The success of the 2025 LibreLocal events has prompted the FSF to expand the initiative this year, aiming for even greater participation. The foundation is actively offering support to organizers, recognizing that these grassroots efforts are vital for promoting the adoption and understanding of free software. This support includes assistance with publicity, connecting organizers with local enthusiasts, and even providing virtual or in-person participation from FSF staff.

Financial assistance is too available, though limited. Organizers can submit a request for funding, but must first log in or create an account on my.fsf.org. The deadline for funding applications is March 15, 2026. This requirement underscores the FSF’s reliance on community support and membership to sustain its initiatives, as highlighted in a recent appeal for associate members.

Resources for Organizers

For those interested in hosting a LibreLocal meetup, the FSF offers a comprehensive suite of resources. A detailed meetup guide provides practical advice and tips for organization. A template for a safe space policy is also available, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity, and respect. The FSF has documented successful events from last year, offering valuable insights and inspiration in two parts.

The FSF emphasizes that the program and format of each meetup are entirely at the discretion of the organizers. Events can range from informal gatherings in cafes to larger, more structured conferences. The overarching goal is to promote the free software philosophy and highlight the benefits of using and contributing to free and open-source software. The foundation encourages organizers to emphasize the concept of freedom – a core tenet of the free software movement.

Individuals looking to collaborate on organizing a meetup can add their name to the organizing page on the LibrePlanet wiki, or contact the FSF directly at [email protected]. Those seeking to attend a meetup can check the sign-up list for events in their area.

Getting Started: A Quick Checklist

The FSF provides a concise checklist to help potential organizers gain started:

Reserve a space – whether a table at a bar or a venue for a larger event.
List your event on the LibrePlanet wiki to gain visibility and promotion.
Consult the meetup guide for helpful tips and best practices.
Apply for support from the FSF (after logging in to my.fsf.org), keeping the March 15, 2026 deadline in mind.
Reach out to [email protected] to discuss how the FSF can further assist with your event.
And, most importantly, enjoy connecting with fellow free software enthusiasts!

The Free Software Foundation’s LibreLocal initiative represents a concerted effort to strengthen the free software community through localized, grassroots engagement. By providing resources, support, and a platform for collaboration, the FSF aims to foster a vibrant ecosystem of free software advocates and users worldwide. The success of this program hinges on the enthusiasm and dedication of individuals willing to invest their time and energy in organizing and participating in these events.

As noted in the May 2025 issue of the Free Software Supporter, LibreLocal Month is part of the FSF’s broader celebration of its fortieth anniversary, highlighting the organization’s long-standing commitment to promoting software freedom.