Attendee Comms

Overview

For those of you who are new to FIRST events, FIRST sends periodic communications that specifically relate to the event you are registered for. Information will include general reminders, mobile app information (when applicable), tips/suggestions for planning your trip, limited time opportunities, event-related social activities, and messaging from key sponsors and supporters.

Below is a record of messages that have already been sent to FIRSTCON26 delegates to ensure you don't miss out!

May 19, 2026

Let’s get down to it – Attendee Comms #1 – May 19, 2026:

  • Last Call for Hotel Room Block
  • Last Call for Birds of a Feather (BoFs)
  • Call to Action – Panelists Needed
  • Annual Football Match – World Cup Edition
  • Wednesday Social Event
  • Tips for the Trail

Last Call for Hotel Room Block
Haven’t hitched your wagon in Denver yet? There’s still time to lock in the special FIRSTCON26 conference rate at the venue hotel, the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel. The rooming block deadline has been extended through May 22, so catch those discounted rates before they ride off into the sunset. Book before it’s too late at: https://www.first.org/conference/2026/venue

Last Call for BoFs
Calling all Birds! Did you miss your chance to submit your session? Good news, we have extended the Birds of a Feather submission period to May 29. Don’t wait, submit now at: https://www.first.org/conference/2026/bof-submission

Birds of a Feather ("BoF") talks and activities are informal meetings that take place during the annual conference and are based on the interest of attending participants. Both FIRST members and non-members are welcome to submit.

BoFs are scheduled throughout the conference week at the discretion of FIRST organizers. BoF topics must be submitted for review and approval using the submission form.

Call to Action – Co-Panelists Needed, Respond by Tuesday, May 26
Are you an incident response leader with experience in a low-income or fragile country? In Denver, the World Bank is organizing a session on "Tips and Tricks to Run a CSIRT in Low-income and Fragile Contexts" and would be delighted to have you as one of our panelists. It will be a great opportunity to share practical lessons learned about how to do more with less, do's and don'ts, and present a success story based on your personal and national achievements. For more information, please contact Ghislain de Salins, gdesalins@worldbank.org by Tuesday, May 26.

Annual Football Match – World Cup Edition (Monday, June 15)
With the world coming together for football this summer, the FIRST community is keeping the tradition alive in Denver with another friendly match. Michael Mortensen, our longtime MVP of Fun, has once again organized this beloved unofficial FIRST event. The game brings attendees together for a little friendly competition, camaraderie, and kicks. Hosted by Nucleus Security, the football match is welcome to all skill levels! Players and cheerleaders alike need to register for the event at: https://nucleussec.com/unofficial-first-football-event-2026/ space is limited. The match is a great opportunity to play and network with your peers, don’t listen to any Americans chanting “It’s Called Soccer!” 😉

Wednesday Social...Have You Picked up on the Theme?
The Wednesday night social event will take place Wednesday, June 17, 19:00-22:00. Party admission is included with every registration type – no additional purchase is necessary unless you would like to bring a guest who is not registered for the conference. Every year we try to creatively incorporate the host nation into the party, so we’re leaning into the Wild West for Denver! Everyone is encouraged to pack a little cowboy flair for the Wednesday night social – hats, boots, denim, and western style are welcome on the dance floor (with a few costume materials provided!) We dare you to go “Full-Yeehaw" even if it is your first rodeo!

Tips for the Trail

  • Denver’s mountain air and sunny skies make for a picturesque conference backdrop, so don’t let the Mile High City catch you off guard, stay energized with these tips for the trail:

  • Don’t Skip the Sunscreen! Colorado is one of the sunniest states in the US, and the rays are strong, especially at the higher elevation. Even on cooler days, sunscreen goes a long way.

  • Frequent the Watering Hole. The altitude and dry climate can sneak up on your fast. Bring a reusable water bottle to keep you galloping throughout the day.

  • Pace Yourself partner! At 5,280 feet above sea level, you may notice the elevation during your first day or two. Remember to pace yourself and don’t be surprised if you feel winded a little faster than usual.

  • Layer Up, Cowboy. Denver weather can change quickly, from warm afternoons to cool evenings, so we recommend layers for maximum comfort. Don’t forget there’s a theme party Wednesday, so bring your plaid, denim, and paisley!

  • Embrace the “Leave no Trace” Philosophy: Whether you hit the city streets or hiking path, let’s keep the trails and conference rooms clean and sustainable for everyone.

That’s all for now, don’t hesitate to reach out to the events team if you have questions about your participation. We can’t wait to host you this June!