This is a a great post from DynamicWP: http://www.dynamicwp.net/articles-and-tutorials/benefits-attending-wordcamp-wordpress-conventions/
Whether you are just learning WordPress or a seasoned professional, attending WordCamp or other WordPress or conventions for bloggers is an excellent idea. Conventions are for learning and for sharing new ideas, so WordPress bloggers from any level. These types of conventions are not only for learning how to work on WordPress, but they also teach skills for all level users. Even expert WordPress users can get something out of blogger conventions and WordCamp in the form of new ideas and techniques. Read more