Contao
Self-HostedOpen-source CMS with robust conference management capabilities
Overview
Contao is an open-source PHP-based platform that combines content management with conference management tools. It supports event scheduling, attendee registration, ticket tracking, agenda building, and speaker profile management. Deployable via Docker or traditional LAMP stack (Linux, Apache/Nginx, MySQL, PHP), it offers modular plugins to extend conference-specific features like venue maps or feedback forms. Its user-friendly backend simplifies managing conferences without deep technical expertise, while self-hosting ensures full control over attendee data and privacy.
Self-Hosting Resources
Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml.
⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.
version: '3'
services:
contao:
image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
container_name: contao
ports:
- "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
volumes:
- ./data:/app/data
restart: unless-stopped Key Features
- Event scheduling & customizable agenda management
- Attendee registration and ticket tracking
- Modular plugin system for conference-specific extensions
Frequently Asked Questions
? Is Contao hard to install?
Contao is accessible to both technical and non-technical users: Docker images simplify setup with one-click deployment, while manual installation on a LAMP stack is straightforward for those familiar with web servers. Official documentation provides step-by-step guides for both methods.
? Is it a good alternative to Eventbrite?
Yes—for organizations prioritizing data privacy and self-hosting. Unlike Eventbrite, Contao has no transaction fees and lets you control all attendee data. It lacks Eventbrite’s global marketing tools but excels at custom, private conference workflows.
? Is it completely free?
Contao’s core is 100% free under the GNU GPL v3 license. Third-party plugins for advanced conference features may have paid tiers, but all essential tools (registration, agenda, ticketing) are available at no cost.
Top Alternatives
People Also Ask about Contao
Tool Info
Pros
- ⊕ Privacy-focused (self-hosted data control)
- ⊕ No subscription or per-event fees
- ⊕ User-friendly backend for non-technical admins
Cons
- ⊖ Requires LAMP/Docker server setup
- ⊖ Core conference features need plugin installation
- ⊖ Steeper learning curve for advanced customizations