Nov 21st, ‘24/7 min read

AWS re: Invent 2024: Must-Know Tips & What to Expect

Ready for AWS re:Invent 2024? Here are some tips and highlights to help you make the most of the event

AWS re: Invent 2024: Must-Know Tips & What to Expect

AWS re:Invent 2024 is the event everyone’s buzzing about all year long! It's the ultimate gathering for cloud professionals, tech enthusiasts, and developers to dig into all things AWS.

If you’re heading to Vegas this December, get ready for a week full of cloud insights, hands-on learning, and endless chances to connect with like-minded folks.

Whether it’s your first time or you’re a re:Invent regular, there’s a lot to take in—keynotes, workshops, networking, and more. It can feel like a whirlwind, but a little planning goes a long way.

Let’s start and make sure you’re ready!

Prepping for AWS re:Invent 2024: Tips from Past Attendees

Prioritize Your Sessions

With over 2,000 sessions to choose from, it’s easy to get lost. Plan a balanced agenda with keynotes, hands-on labs, and workshops.

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Tip: Download the AWS re: Invent app to keep your schedule in check and reserve spots for popular sessions early!

Comfort is Key

You’ll be walking a lot, so comfy shoes are a must. Dress in layers—conference rooms can be chilly, but the Vegas heat is no joke.

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Tip: Only collect swag you’ll actually use—unnecessary swag can weigh you down!

Networking Strategy

Don’t underestimate the power of networking! Use LinkedIn to set up meetups, carry business cards, and make time for small talk during breaks or lunch. Community events and mixers are also great for meeting new people.

Check Out the Expo

The Expo is a must-see! Get there early to avoid crowds, visit vendors that align with your interests, and don’t forget your questions.
Bonus: Free swag everywhere!

Make Time for Fun

AWS re:Invent isn’t all work! From the 5K run to after-hours events, there’s no shortage of fun. If you have time, explore Las Vegas and recharge.

AWS re:Invent 2024 re:Play | Amazon Web Services
You’ve earned it. Celebrate the end of another successful AWS re:Invent with the greatest party in tech.

Can’t-Miss Experiences at AWS re:Invent 2024

Workshops and Bootcamps

If you love learning by doing, these hands-on sessions let you master AWS tools with expert guidance.

AWS re:Invent 2024 Bootcamps | Amazon Web Services
Build your confidence and AWS skills during immersive half- and full-day deep dives on popular cloud topics.

Networking and Social Events

AWS re:Invent is the place to meet new people. Whether you’re chatting over coffee or attending mixers, you’ll find endless opportunities to connect.

Expo and Demos

The Expo is your tech playground. It’s where AWS partners showcase the latest products, and you’ll get to try out new features firsthand.

Don't miss the Innovation Talks, where AWS experts will explore key topics like generative AI data, cloud operations, network and content delivery, and strategies for migration and modernization.

AWS re:Invent 2024 Innovation Talks | Amazon Web Services
Innovation talks are where AWS experts weigh in on essential topics such as data for generative AI, cloud operations, network and content delivery, and migration and modernization.

Special Tracks for Developers

If you’re into DevOps, IT, or development, don’t miss the tracks designed specifically for you. Must listen to talks on topics like observability, cloud security, and app scaling!

When checking out the Session Catalog, take note of the numbers at the beginning of each title—they hint at how technical the session will be:

  • 100: Basics for beginners
  • 200: Intermediate-level content
  • 300: Advanced insights
  • 400: Deep dives for experts

New at AWS re:Invent 2024!

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Hydrate, Help, and Give Back

AWS has teamed up with Fill it Forward to support charity: water at the Hydrate and Help Water Walk. Walk in the shoes of millions who gather water daily and raise awareness for a great cause.

While you're there, grab a water bottle from SWAG—refill it, and scan the QR code to give back and reduce waste at the same time.

Getting Around AWS re:Invent 2024

Know the Venues

Familiarize yourself with where sessions are happening. The hotels are spread out, so knowing where everything is will save you time.

Allow Extra Time for Travel

When moving between activities, give yourself 30–45 minutes to get from one place to another, whether it’s across venues or within a single venue.

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Encore and Wynn are directly connected, and during Expo hours, there’s a temporary route linking Caesars Forum to The Venetian.

Use Shuttles and Monorails

Shuttles run between most properties, except Wynn to The Venetian and Caesars Forum to The Venetian. Check real-time travel times in the app.

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Your conference pass also gives you free access to the monorail between MGM Grand and Harrah’s/The LINQ Station.

Food, Drinks, and Staying Energized at AWS re:Invent 2024

AWS Covers Meals

Don’t stress about breakfast or lunch—AWS provides meals at various spots, like the dining hall at The Venetian.

Hydrate and Moisturize

Vegas is dry, so stay hydrated. Pack chapstick and lotion to keep your skin and throat feeling good.

Plan for Snacks

Vegas prices can be steep. Stock up on snacks and drinks at a local CVS or Walgreens to avoid overspending.

Coffee Spots Near AWS re:Invent 2024

  • Vesta Coffee Roasters (Downtown): Artisan coffee in a cozy spot—perfect for a pre-session pick-me-up.
  • Café Bellagio (Bellagio Hotel): A quiet café with premium coffee and pastries in the iconic Bellagio.
  • PublicUs (Downtown): A local favorite with in-house roasted beans and a killer breakfast menu.
  • The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (Venetian Hotel): Quick coffee and drinks near the conference action.

Must-Try Food Spots

  • Secret Pizza (The Cosmopolitan): Delicious, no-frills pizza in a secretive spot—perfect for a late-night bite.
  • Lotus of Siam (Off the Strip): Legendary Northern Thai dishes—don’t miss the crispy duck and Pad Thai!
  • E by José Andrés (The Cosmopolitan): Upscale, modern Spanish dining—reservation needed, but worth it.
  • Javiers (Aria Hotel): Upscale Mexican cuisine with an amazing tequila selection.
  • The Buffet at Wynn (Wynn Las Vegas): A classic Vegas buffet with tons of global options.

Challenge Yourself at the Sports Forum

At the Sports Forum, you can test your skills with games inspired by sports franchises that work with AWS.

Whether you want to challenge friends, join a team, or compete solo, there’s something for everyone.

Plus, take part in activations for a chance to win a pass to AWS re:Invent 2025!
AWS re:Invent 2024 Sports Forum | Amazon Web Services
See how AWS helps professional sports organizations come to life. Don’t miss the chance to watch, play, and experience some of the world’s leading sports brands like never before at Caesars Forum, Forum Ballroom.

Some Final Tips to Keep in Mind

Pack Light, But Be Prepared

Your backpack will fill up with swag, so pack light to start. Remember—everything is further apart than it seems, so give yourself plenty of time.

Dress for the Weather

Vegas nights can get chilly, so bring layers, especially if you’re staying out late.

Airport Tips

For your ride from the airport, take a cab—it’s a set price. For the return trip, rideshares are a better option.

Late-Night Eats

After a long day, grab a slice at Secret Pizza in The Cosmopolitan. It’s affordable, tasty, and open late—perfect for winding down.

Final Thoughts

AWS re:Invent is a whirlwind of learning, networking, and fun. It’s a lot to take in, but with these tips, you’ll have an amazing time and make the most of everything the event has to offer.

Meet us at Booth 166, Sands Level 2!

Let’s chat about your observability wins, and challenges, or just drop by to say hi! And yes, we’ve got some fun merch waiting for you!

Do follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter to stay updated on our product and the events we host and attend.

Last9 on LinkedIn: #kubecon #cloudnativecon
We’re not saying anything...😎 Grab our fun merch at booth Q31! #KubeCon + #CloudNativeCon

KubeCon attendees loved Last9 merch!

Can’t make it to Las Vegas?

No worries—AWS is offering free access to keynotes, innovation talks, and on-demand breakout sessions.

AWS re:Invent 2024 Virtual Registration | Amazon Web Services
If you aren’t able to make it to Las Vegas, Nevada, we’re offering free access to AWS re:Invent keynotes and innovation talks live, and on-demand breakout sessions.

Don't Forget:

  • Hydrate: Vegas is dry, so drink plenty of water.
  • Budget for Meals: Dining off the Strip can get pricey, so plan accordingly.
  • Explore the Culinary Scene: Step out of the conference bubble and check out Vegas’s diverse food spots.
  • Session Recordings: Most breakout sessions are recorded and later shared on the AWS YouTube Channel. So, while you’re in Las Vegas, it’s a good idea to focus on experiences you can’t catch online later!

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Authors

Prathamesh Sonpatki

Prathamesh works as an evangelist at Last9, runs SRE stories - where SRE and DevOps folks share their stories, and maintains o11y.wiki - a glossary of all terms related to observability.

Anjali Udasi

Helping to make the tech a little less intimidating. I love breaking down complex concepts into easy-to-understand terms.

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