Skip to content

Free Open Source Software Month is an exciting time dedicated to celebrating software that is free to use, modify, and share.

This month emphasizes the importance of open-source software, highlighting how it empowers users by giving them control over the technology they use.

The open-source community thrives on collaboration and innovation, and this month is all about recognizing and encouraging these values.

Celebrating Free Open Source Software Month shines a spotlight on the benefits of using open-source software. It’s celebrated to promote the accessibility of technology for everyone, regardless of their financial situation.

By making software freely available, it allows users to learn, create, and adapt technology to their specific needs.

This fosters a spirit of cooperation, where developers from around the world can contribute and improve software, making it more secure and efficient.

History of Free Open Source Software Month

Free Open Source Software Month began in 2017 and was initiated by Onyx Point, Inc. The aim was to highlight the benefits of open-source software and create a platform for spreading awareness.

Onyx Point, Inc. saw the need to promote open-source solutions and engaged with the broader community to celebrate this initiative.

They collaborated with the National Day Calendar to officially recognize this month-long observance.

The celebration focuses on recognizing software that anyone can freely use, modify, and distribute. Free Open-Source Software (FOSS) is important because it fosters collaboration and innovation among developers globally.

The month encourages activities like contributing to open-source projects, attending events, and hosting workshops, which help spread the word about the advantages of open-source software​​.

By promoting the use and development of open-source software, this month aims to build a more inclusive technology community.

It brings attention to the collaborative efforts that go into creating and improving software, making technology more accessible and customizable for everyone.

This observance not only honors the work of developers but also invites new contributors to join the open-source movement.

How to Celebrate Free Open Source Software Month

This month’s observance underscores the community aspect of open-source projects. Developers, users, and enthusiasts come together to share ideas, contribute code, and support one another.

This collaborative environment leads to better, more innovative software solutions.

It’s a time to appreciate how open-source software protects user rights and privacy while enhancing technological advancement globally​.

Dive into Code

Get your geek on by diving into an open-source project. Pick a favorite, roll up your sleeves, and contribute code. Not a coder? No worries!

You can help with documentation or testing. Every bit helps the community grow stronger.

Host a Hackathon

Gather your pals for a hackathon. Set a timer, pick a project, and let the creativity flow. Snacks, laughs, and lots of coding – what could be better? It’s a fun way to make a difference while having a blast.

Spread the Word

Grab your megaphone or just your smartphone, and spread the word. Tweet, post, and share your open-source experiences.

Use hashtags to join the larger conversation. Let everyone know why open-source rocks!

Attend an Event

Look for local or virtual open-source events. Attend workshops, seminars, or meetups to learn new skills, meet fellow enthusiasts, and get inspired. There’s always something new to discover in the open-source world.

Create Your Project

Have an idea buzzing in your brain? Start your own open-source project! Use platforms like GitHub to share your work. Invite others to contribute and watch your project grow with the help of the community.

Teach and Inspire

Share your open-source knowledge with others. Host a workshop or give a talk. Inspire friends, colleagues, or students to get involved.

Teaching is a great way to deepen your own understanding and spread open-source love.

Explore New Tools

Take this month to explore new open-source tools. Try out different software, from graphic design to data analysis. You might find a new favorite that enhances your workflow or sparks a new hobby.

Support Open Source

Show your support by donating to open-source projects or foundations.

Your contributions can help maintain and improve the software you love. It’s a great way to give back to the community that gives so much.

Also in ...

View all holidays

Ice Cream For Breakfast Day

Start your day off on the sweet side by skipping the eggs and bacon — savor the deliciousness of your favorite ice cream flavors instead.

National Get Up Day

Life's journey is a series of stumbles and recoveries, teaching the importance of resilience and the beauty of rising stronger.

National Freedom Day

Everyone should have the freedom to live their lives without discrimination based on their race, gender, sexuality, or beliefs.

National Serpent Day

They're slinky, slippery, and oh so fascinating! With mesmerizing patterns and a mysterious reputation, serpents are truly captivating creatures.

View all holidays

We think you may also like...

Computer Learning Month

Join a class or hit up your local library for resources on computer technology, and make computing one of your many useful and marketable skills.

Education Technology Day

Make use of education technology by enrolling in an online class, playing an educational game, and learning more about the technology that helps the world learn.

National Online Learning Day

Unlocking a world of knowledge from your device - it's like having a library, classroom, and mentor right in your pocket.

National Cyber Security Awareness Month

Get an anti-virus program, update your passwords (don’t use your pet’s names!), and make sure your cyber security is tight to protect your information.

Calendar

Join the community!

Password requirements

  • At least one capital letter
  • At least one lowercase letter
  • At least one number
  • 8 or more characters

Welcome back!

Log in to get personalized recommendations, follow events and topics you love, and never miss a day again!