October 2025 Tech Conferences & Travel Insights

October is a packed month for Computer Science conferences. Several flagship events will take place across Asia and Europe, covering topics from functional programming and object‑oriented design to cybersecurity, social computing, human–computer interaction and multimedia. If you’re planning to attend, it’s useful to know when and where these events happen and what you can explore outside the conference halls. Here’s a round‑up of the major October events listed on WorkWander, along with travel tips that might give you a few extra reasons to go.

Programming Conference Cluster in Singapore (ICFP, OOPSLA & SPLASH)

• Conferences: ICFP 2025, OOPSLA 2025 and SPLASH 2025
• Dates: 12–18 October 2025
• Venue: Marina Bay Sands, Singapore
• Topics: functional programming; object‑oriented programming, languages and systems; broad software and humanities

All three programming conferences are co‑located at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. The Marina Bay district is a destination itself – the waterfront promenade is lined with attractions like the ArtScience Museum, the Singapore Flyer, Gardens by the Bay and Merlion Park. The centrepiece is the Marina Bay Sands resort, whose SkyPark offers views of the city and hosts a nightly light and laser show over the water. Plan to wander the bay by day and return in the evening for the free show. Be aware that restaurants in this area can be pricey, so consider venturing into the nearby hawker centres for affordable local food.

The climate in Singapore is hot and humid year‑round; Weather Spark describes it as “hot, oppressive and overcast” with temperatures between 76 °F and 89 °F. The best times for hot‑weather activities are late July through early October, so pack light clothing and plan breaks in air‑conditioned spaces.

CCS 2025 – Cybersecurity in Taipei

• Conference: ACM CCS 2025
• Dates: 13–17 October 2025
• Venue: Taipei International Convention Center, Taipei, Taiwan
• Topics: cybersecurity and communications security

The ACM Conference on Computer and Communications Security (CCS) travels to Taipei in 2025. When you’re not attending talks, explore the city’s mix of modern architecture and cultural heritage. Start with the National Palace Museum, which uses digital innovation and virtual‑reality projects to bring its vast collection of Chinese art to life. Head to the Taipei 101 Observatory to ride a high‑speed elevator to the 89th‑floor deck and enjoy 360‑degree views of the city; the tower’s tuned mass damper is the largest and heaviest in the world. In the evening, sample street food at the many night markets.

CSCW 2025 – Cooperative Work in Bergen, Norway

• Conference: CSCW 2025
• Dates: 18–22 October 2025
• Venue: Grieghallen Conference Center, Bergen, Norway
• Topics: computer‑supported cooperative work (CSCW), AI, social computing and HCI

Bergen, Norway’s second‑largest city, is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage site Bryggen. This historic harbour district is the oldest quarter of Bergen; its 58 colourful wooden warehouses line the Vågen harbour and date back to the Hanseatic League’s trading era. Visitors can wander the narrow alleys and lanes between the buildings to glimpse the architecture and history. Today the area hosts handicraft shops, artists, boutiques and restaurants and is free to access.

Bergen is also the gateway to Norway’s fjords and mountains. However, October is the rainiest month – Weather Spark notes that the city averages 17.7 days of rain in October, so pack a waterproof jacket and plan indoor alternatives. If you’re lucky with the weather, take the Fløibanen funicular up Mount Fløyen or explore nearby fjords.

CHIRA 2025 – HCI Research in Marbella, Spain

• Conference: CHIRA 2025
• Dates: 20–21 October 2025
• Venue: Marbella Convention Center, Marbella, Spain
• Topics: human–computer interaction (HCI), UX and interaction design

Marbella isn’t just about beach resorts; the old town showcases whitewashed buildings adorned with bougainvillea flowers and squares scented with orange trees. Local writer Cristina Reina recommends wandering the cobblestone streets, stopping for a coffee in Plaza de Los Naranjos, and browsing boutiques and independent shops. Nearby Puerto Banús offers a taste of the upscale Marbella lifestyle with high‑end boutiques, luxury yachts and restaurants.

If you’re interested in history, visit the remains of Marbella Castle, built in the 11th century; today only sections of the castle walls survive. Take a guided walking tour to learn about the town’s Moorish influences.

ACM Multimedia (ACM MM) 2025 – Dublin, Ireland

• Conference: ACM MM 2025
• Dates: 27–31 October 2025
• Venue: Dublin Royal Convention Centre, Dublin, Ireland
• Topics: multimedia, user experience, HCI, XR and audio‑visual systems

Dublin is renowned for its literary and musical heritage, but it also boasts historic sites and green spaces. St. Patrick’s Cathedral, built between 1220 and 1259 on the site where the patron saint is said to have baptized converts, is the largest cathedral in Dublin and one of the few medieval buildings still standing. After visiting, many locals suggest dropping by the nearby Brazen Head pub (said to be the city’s oldest) for fish and chips and live music.

For a peaceful break, head to St. Stephen’s Green. This public park has remained green year‑round since being reopened as a public space in 1880; it includes a playground and garden for visitors with low vision and monuments honouring figures such as James Joyce and Arthur Guinness. Reviewers appreciate the park’s tranquil atmosphere in the middle of the city.

If you have extra time after ACM MM, consider exploring Dublin’s museums such as the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum, which uses interactive exhibits to tell stories of 1,500 years of emigration.

Final Tips for October Conference Travel

• Check visas and entry requirements early, especially for Singapore and China (for Taipei).
• Reserve accommodation near the conference venues; October is busy and hotels book up quickly.
• Pack smart: Singapore will be hot and humid, Bergen will likely be wet, and Dublin weather can shift quickly. Layers and waterproof gear go a long way.
• Balance sessions with exploration. Visiting local attractions – whether the historic shophouses of Bryggen or the rooftops of Taipei 101 – enriches your trip and provides context for the technology you’re discussing at the conferences.

With the right preparation and a curious mindset, October’s slate of conferences can be as much about discovering new places as it is about learning new research. Safe travels and happy conferencing!