Are ICML workshops worth attending? [D]

Reddit r/MachineLearning / 5/25/2026

💬 OpinionIdeas & Deep Analysis

Key Points

  • The post asks whether attending only ICML workshops—after missing a main conference ticket due to a late acceptance—is still worthwhile given the high costs of overseas travel.
  • The author compares the value of workshops versus the full ICML experience, specifically referencing opportunities like talks, poster sessions, and company booths.
  • The writer is seeking guidance from others’ past experiences, noting they come from an adjacent field and have attended several conferences before.
  • Overall, it frames the discussion as practical decision-making about conference participation when budget and logistics make the main event inaccessible.

Hi!

I missed securing a main conference ticket for ICML 2026, as my workshop paper got accepted two days ago. Do you believe that it is worth attending just workshops at such A*-tier conferences (with all the overseas travel costs etc.)?

I was quite looking forward to attending both, including the talks, poster sessions and company booths. I come from an adjacent field and have therefore had quite a few conference experiences. Any insights into past experience are highly welcome.

Thank you!

submitted by /u/dreameroutloud
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