[mgkimsal]

Years ago it was primarily to learn - both technical info at sessions and learn who the players in a particular industry and/or region were.

For most tech/net related events for me these days it's mostly social - personal and networking - and very little about actual tech issues - perhaps 10% of the sessions are of keen interest in that they'll impact my day to day work/life.

Another aspect is speaking - I enjoying presenting on certain topics at conferences.