I don't think either matters. They don't need to make profit, usually being community events, and are as "wasteful" as going to a concert or meeting friends at the bar, except you also get to learn new stuff and expand your network.
But it does matter given it costs money to setup events. Also there are different classes of events.
#@theAuthor
In my country the cost of doing an event can fund 2 startups of 3 founders for 9 months, can build a maker-space, or introduce internet to a whole village.
A lot of people want to attend, but can't afford because they live in remote places, they don't come to get drinks take pictures, or network, they just want to learn.
This is an optimization sprouted from the local constraints of Morocco and similar African countries.
Your opinion is most welcome