IndyPy: Django & FastAPI: What’s Next?

Event Description

Django just turned 21, and Python web development keeps evolving.

What's happening behind the scenes in Django's open-source community? And how do you decide between Django and FastAPI for your next project?

The November edition of IndyPy features two talks exploring Django's evolution and the real-world tradeoffs between two of Python's most popular frameworks.

In "What's New in Contributing to Django?" Tim Schilling (Better Simple) will share how Django's community is investing in its future through mentorship, contributor sprints, and a more structured process for shipping new features.

Then, in "Batteries-Included vs. Speed: The Django/FastAPI Debate," Calvin Hendryx-Parker (Six Feet Up CTO and AWS Hero) will compare both frameworks based on years of production experience. Discover where each shines, what tradeoffs matter, and how to choose the right tool for your next project.

Expect practical insights, great discussions, and opportunities to connect with fellow Python enthusiasts!

AGENDA
7:10 - 7:25pm: Meet Your Tribe (Icebreakers)
Meet fellow Python enthusiasts, make new connections, and kick off the evening with fun icebreakers.

7:25 - 7:30pm: Announcements

7:30 - 7:55pm: “What's New in Contributing to Django?” by Tim Schilling, Better Simple Django & Python Consultant
Django just turned 21, but there's more to celebrate than its longevity. Over the past three years, its community has introduced mentorship opportunities, dedicated sprint events, and a formal process for shipping new features. Tim will explore how these initiatives are making Django more sustainable, welcoming, and easier to contribute to, and why its community is one of the framework's greatest strengths.

7:55 - 8:20pm: “Batteries-Included vs. Speed: The Django/FastAPI Debate” by Calvin Hendryx-Parker, Six Feet Up CTO and AWS Hero
Django or FastAPI? The answer depends on what you're building. Drawing on years of production experience with both frameworks, Calvin will compare Django's batteries-included approach with FastAPI's lightweight, API-first design. Learn where each framework shines, how they differ, and what matters most when choosing the right tool for your product, team, and long-term maintenance needs. No winner, just practical guidance for making a smarter decision.

8:20 - 8:30pm: Door Prizes

8:30 - 9pm: Networking & General Discussion

Guests are welcome to attend, but please have each person RSVP on their own Meetup account.

Admission

Free