Attended the Makers Faire again this year, and San...

Attended the Makers Faire again this year, and San Mateo is the original and flagship Makers Faire to this day. It is quite a lot of space that the event covers, and while years ago it seemed like they would never come close to needing the entire expanse, it has started to seem a possibility as the years progressed. Huge faire, with an insanely diverse range of various parts of the Maker Movement.

I took some family and friends who had never been, and was constantly bombarded with questions about what the Makers Faire is actually about. These continued up to the day of the event despite my explanation that it wasn't what they probably expect and the diversity makes it impossible to summarize efficiently. Once we got there, and walked around for a couple minutes those questions instantly ceased. Their sudden and overwhelmingly clear comprehension of my explanatory struggles was plainly obvious, but overshadowed by the sense of wonder that is inevitably evoked by such a huge range of creative, hands on projects in the endless rows of booths.

I have no idea what this venue looks like for any other events throughout the year, so I cannot comment there. But it is so spectacular for this glorious annual gathering of the Maker Community, albeit a bit short on available parking within the immediate vicinity. We parked a few blocks away and simply hailed an Uber to take us that last mile. Ultimately this was far more preferable to having to deal with the backed up traffic immediately adjacent to the grounds.

The event organizers did an excellent job designating an area for Uber, Lyft, or any other drop-off or roadside pickup service. They kept it close enough to not be a hassle to use the area, while ensuring the bit of roadway was only having event traffic directed along there if providing such services. So the traffic around the ride share service area was not bad at all, not having to battle with the rest of those folks driving 5 MPH looking for the $50 parking!

I'll absolutely be attending again soon! If not next year, then I'll certainly be sure to plan attending within three years or so. If you or someone you love is at all technically inclined, or even if just the type who is great at skills that are particularly hands-on, I urge you to check out this event. You will not be disappointed! (But purchase your tickets prior to approaching the entrance gate, or expect to pay significantly more for passes.)