OpenSource OS's that Don't Suck?

Do they exist?

I liked Windows XP and Vista is a horriffic pile of fail but I don't have an actual XP CD. I don't really know anything about open source OS so I don't have a clue where to start.

Bonus if you can actually run programs on them instead of just have a machine sitting there you can't run applications on because it sucks. If I want that i'll use Vista.

>>5
Millions.  There's literally MILLIONS of people who have contributed to OS projects.  It's called COMMUNITY and the REAL PURPOSE OF THE INTERNET.