Backdrop CMS

Self-Hosted

Open-source CMS for flexible conference websites and event portals

Overview

Backdrop CMS is a user-friendly, open-source content management system ideal for building conference websites, event portals, and community hubs. It offers intuitive content editing, customizable layouts, and role-based access control to manage speakers, sessions, and attendee-facing content. Deployable via Docker, shared hosting, or self-managed servers, it supports modules for adding conference-specific features like schedule builders and registration forms. Its responsive design ensures mobile compatibility, while regular security updates protect event data. Perfect for teams needing a self-hosted solution to power their conference’s online presence without proprietary lock-in.

Self-Hosting Resources

Find Official Image on Docker Hub View Source & Docs

Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml. ⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.

docker-compose.template.yml TEMPLATE


version: '3'
services:
  backdrop_cms:
    image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
    container_name: backdrop-cms
    ports:
      - "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
    volumes:
      - ./data:/app/data
    restart: unless-stopped

Key Features

Session & speaker management with customizable profiles
Role-based permissions for event organizers and volunteers
Responsive, modular layouts for conference websites

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is Backdrop CMS hard to install?

Backdrop CMS is relatively easy to install—supports Docker, one-click installs on many hosting providers, or manual setup via FTP/SSH. It includes a step-by-step wizard to guide initial configuration, and official documentation offers tips for setting up conference-specific features like speaker profiles or session schedules.

? Is it a good alternative to proprietary conference management tools?

Yes—if you prioritize data ownership and customization. While it lacks built-in ticketing or advanced analytics like ConfTool or Cvent, its modular ecosystem lets you add those features via free/low-cost modules. It’s ideal for teams avoiding subscription lock-in.

? Is Backdrop CMS completely free?

Absolutely. Backdrop CMS is open source under GPLv2, so all core features are free to use, modify, and distribute. Most conference-focused modules are also open source and free, with rare premium options for specialized needs.

Top Alternatives

ConfTool (Proprietary) Search Google

Eventbrite (Proprietary) Search Google

Cvent (Enterprise Proprietary) Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Open Source

Category Conference Management

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Full data ownership and privacy (self-hosted)
⊕ No recurring subscription costs
⊕ Extensible via modules for conference-specific tools
⊕ Intuitive content editing for non-technical users

Cons

⊖ Requires initial setup to configure conference workflows
⊖ Some advanced features need third-party modules
⊖ Steeper learning curve than dedicated conference tools
⊖ Smaller community compared to mainstream CMS platforms