2008 Burning Man Virgins's topics - tribe.net

tickets for sale

2008-06-17T15:22:04Z

Well boo.

Very boo.

I have to sell my 2 burning man tickets. this formally sucks. They are on Will-Call but I've read the info on the Burning Man website and it looks pretty simple to change the name on the lovely tickets.

Ok, so who wants to take them off my hands?

let me know.

Once they're gone, they're gone!

If you have Paypal, that'd be sweet. Only genuine buyers please.

Thanks.

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 1 reply

The Care and Keeping of my Playa bike!!!!

2008-06-17T08:10:08Z

I've got my playa bike!!!! What else do I need to be prepared??? so far, on my list I have: LIGHT, BASKET, AIR, 4 EXTRA TUBES, SMALL BIKE REPAIR KIT.....(understand I have no idea whats actually in the bike kit)...I thought I would take a bike repair class before I go. Am I forgetting something?

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 21 replies

Sexy gear for straight dudes?

2008-06-17T07:51:16Z

I'm beginning to figure out some wardrobe choices. Ladies, what's a straight dude to wear? I have a few ideas but could really use some input here. Any preferences on percentages of costume to naked? And when does flamboyant cross into attracting just the dudes? Thoughts? As this is a virgin forum, I encourage postings of dream outfits, of course. :)

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 29 replies

2008 street names

2008-06-17T01:06:17Z

Esplanade
Allanté
Bonneville
Corvair
Dart
Edsel
Fairlane
Gremlin
Hummer
Impala
jeep
K-car

the "ring road" around Center Camp is
"The Wheel"

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 22 replies

San Jose-SCruz-Monterey Precom

2008-06-17T00:41:40Z

The Southbay, Santa Cruz and Monterey burner communities unite for the biggest precom the area has ever seen -- SoulStance 2008!

June 20-22, 2008

A campout at Lupin Lodge, Los Gatos in the Santa Cruz mountains!

FIGURE OUT HOW YOU CAN PARTICIPATE!!!

Go to www.soulstanceinfo.com for ALL the info you need to be a part of this wonderful event or chat with your fellow burners about the event on SoulStance Tribe!

http://tribes.tribe.net/soulstance

Virgins Welcome!
w00t!

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 1 reply

Bars, massages and ...um ...services.

2008-06-16T21:36:50Z

As I obsessively read all the descriptions of the recently published theme camps for 08, I wondered about bartering. I know no commerce takes place by law. However, are people just wonderful, kind and giving and just want to contribute so damn bad for the glorious sake of giving (awesome!). Or...is there an underlying barter/donation thing going on that I'm just not privy to?

Thoughts?

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 17 replies

Looking for those cool 55 gallon drum Fire Pits?

2008-06-15T23:36:01Z

I've seen some cool looking 55 gallon fire pits and was wondering were to get one. I'm not looking for anything crazy just one that has no top so i don't have to worry about cutting it off. I know fire has to be off the ground so i plan on putting it on top of cinder blocks and the re-bar that down with chains. Go idea bad idea? Thanks in advance for any advice.

Thanks PuZZ:e

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 9 replies

Thanks for the BBQ!!

2008-06-15T20:30:25Z

Thanks to everyone that went to the BBQ-A-Virgin BBQ yesterday in San Francisco yesterday!! Lots of friendly people, good food, Shadyvil put in their 1st building attempt on a 24 foot Geodesic Dome (that they acquired at a steal of a price $100), Lily showed us some Fire Staff moves, and we met some great really cool (and informative people)!

Thanks especially to Bare, who we spent some quailty time with and learned a lot about prep (and saw some fun pictures), and to Angelicfiend for stopping by with her SO to make sure we met!!

We highly suggest making events like this to meet your future friends on the playa! I know there are 2 more events coming up this weekend (Pre-Com and Prepare for the Playa) in San Fran...

We have pictures from the event (and from the night before) up on our profile... :)

Happy Father's Day to all the Fathers out there!
GageNdG

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 1 reply

Why I go to therapy...

2008-06-15T07:49:43Z

So I went over to my Mom's house to have dinner with her and my oldest brother. I've been having fun telling my family(7 kids) about Burning Man, what it is, what goes on, my art projects, the environment, my prep, etc. Even my old Aunt Fran stopped by today and I told her about it. Sometimes they respond to the things I tell them with a laugh, an inquisitive look, or an "oohhh". Other times they just look straight down at the dinner table and don't say a word. Those are the best! I do love to torture them with TMI occasionally. Not in a crude or hostile way but in a gentle eye opening way.

Tonight at dinner I told mom and bro about the concept of radical self reliance. I specifically talked about rad self reli because after dinner I was going to be in the yard messing around with some shade structure ideas. I was hoping to avert my brother from giving me his $.02 about how to do it.

After dinner he comes out on to the porch smoking a cigar. He sat there for about 5-10 minutes without saying a thing but I knew it was just killing him. He couldn't help himself and eventually came over to show me how I should do it. Aaarrgghhh! Just like my father! It's my number one pet peeve about my whole family. I've spent hours upon hours talking to my therapist about this specific issue!!! Families sure are silly.

I let him join in and didn't say anything whilst he was giving me the rundown of his ideas. I went to the garage with him to get some 2x4's that he thought were the perfect solution even though I knew they weren't. The whole situation is kinda funny because I knew he wasn't going to be able to help himself just sitting there. It made him happy though to help out and it was brother time in the way he knows how. However, I'll be re-iterating the self reliance concept again the next time I go over to Mom's. Gently bring them along...

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 0 replies

NonVirgins- who are you?

2008-06-15T00:06:50Z

Thought it might be good to have a space for the veterans to speak up and share their stuff & skillz.

1. Who are you?
2. Where are you from?
3. Do you have any areas of specialization in which you'd be able to give Virgins advice? (Are you the Shade guy, or the Cooler lady, the EL Wire expert, the Guy Who Helps People Get Laid?)
4. Any idea where you're camping?
5. (free space)- one piece of advice for Virgins, one favourite quote, one bad joke, etc

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 83 replies

Loin Coverings...

2008-06-14T23:20:22Z

or as some people put it...clothes. I have a couple of questions:

1) With the weather so extreme, am I going to find myself having to change in and out of clothes all the time? Does that mean I have to bring like 15 bags worth of clothes? Or I guess I could show up with none but I don't think you want that....or maybe you do?

2) My sense of fashion has severely suffered since my crushing loss on the hit TV show Project Runway. Can I be entirely uncreative or will everyone beat me with a sack of potatoes?

Thank you and have a splendid day.

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 21 replies

My Soap Box

2008-06-14T21:20:10Z

Hey to all you soon to be not virgins,
My name is Boxes with Bears or BWB for short. I have been going to the event for a few years now as a pubic worker for the Lamplighters. I wanted to talk cover one of the most important parts of the burning man society that I feel is vital but isn't followed like I feel we should.

I am talking about the "No Commercialism" guideline.

I feel this is one of the most important factors in the event, but people kind of shrug it off. What I mean is all the food, cars, tents, shirts and just about every thing you see still is in some way advertising for something. So why is that? I feel people may think it is a big hassle trying to re-label all their cans or cover the Chevy logo on their car. So here is a list of stuff I do to support the no commercialism at Burning Man:

-No clothes advertising companies
-removing all small labels from clothes (like the little jean tags)
-Re-label all canned products to reflect what is in the can (if you are in a camp were there will be community food, a good idea is to type up the food and ingredients, just incase vegetarians or vegans need to know)
-Remove or cover up any and all logos on your vehicle
-Same goes for you bike or art car
-If gifting something that has advertisement, do what you can to remove packaging or cover ad up. (Less packaging also helps with moop)
-Alcohol being a very important part of some camps (Like the Lamplighters Monday night Sangria Soirée and Wednesdays Bloody Mary Brunch, Which Your all invited to) try to keep the original bottle by re-labeling works great for this. We go through 75-100 bottles of vodka at our bloody Mary brunch and even all of those I am re-labeling.

The is many other ways to ensure non commercialism and in no way, shape, or form is the hard law. This is just something I take to heat and hope some of you do to.

Thanks,
Boxes With Bears

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 4 replies

Hey, what do you think about this shade structure?

2008-06-14T16:34:13Z

We were out picking up batch #5 of supplies last night, and ran into this shade in-store...

http://www.coleman.com/coleman/colemancom/detail.asp?product_id=2000001449&categoryid=11050

Do any of the veterans have experience with this particular product? If not, does this look like the type of shade that would give us 2-3 hours more sleep time in the morning!!

Your comments and feedback appreciated, as always!

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 18 replies

Plastic Buddy

2008-06-14T12:16:12Z

For those of you who do not know what a Plastic Buddy is... It is (will) be that large hefty bag sitting on your lap on your way home from Burning Man. Burning Man is a pack-in and pack-out event. Meaning you will have to haul out your own trash.

There are NO garbage cans or dumpsters on the Playa. There is however Recycling Camp near Center Camp. Recycling Camp will only take aluminum cans. Sorry people they will NOT take glass, plastic, tin, or steel cans. When going to Recycling Camp please have your cans crushed. Also, please be very respectful towards then. They are volunteers and it is a labor of love for them. Also, every Burn there is an increasing amount of people who just do not get that they only take aluminum cans. Gifting Recycling Camp is very much appreciated. So please remember them.

http://www.burningman.com/on_the_playa/environment_concerns/recycle_camp.html

There are also Burn Bin on the Playa. You can burn paper and clean cardboard in the Burn Bin. Since BM is becoming more and more "green". It will be interesting on how long they will keep doing this.

The best thing to avoid a a Plastic Buddy is to reduce and consolidate what you bring to begin with. For example, if you bring pasta in a box. Don't bring the box but only the plastic wrapper it was sealed in. Same goes with cereal. With sodas you can remove that plastic six pack holder.

To avoid a Plastic Buddy on your plan for taking home garbage. Every Burn people (including myself in 2005) forget leave room for garbage. As a general rule garbage seems to take up more room then what they came to the Playa in. So please plan for it.

When returning home with your trash things not to do with your plastic buddy is to hang it from your car. Every Burn I see people hang plastic garbage bag outside of their car from windows to fenders. Every Burn I see these garbage bags fall off the road too. If you do have to "carry" your garbage bag it is best to carry them on the room of your car. Make sure the garbage bags are very secure for the will not all down on road.

Every Burn more and more people are losing their Playa Coolness when they leave the gates of Black Rock City. For some "Leave No Trace" only applies on the Playa. This means for some that they can dump their garbage on the road, towns, rest stops, streams, rivers, lakes on their way home. In truthfulness "Leave No Trace" also applies when you leave the Playa too.

If you really need to get rid of your garbage become you get home. Please dispose of it legally. Every major city has a place where you can dispose of your garbage for a very small fee. So please do not dump your garbage on the road. Please don't throw it in a steam or river. Please do not dump it into someones dumpster. Please note, that many businesses in the Reno are very aware of the illegal dumping after Burning Man. Reno welcomes us and lets not trash their city. Here is a list of where you can take your trash around the BRC area:

In Fernley, FERNLEY SANITATION (775-575-4964) will be OPEN through the Labor Day weekend, 7:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. every day. The office (but not the dump) is closed on weekends. The rate is $16.00 for up to 3 cubic yards (27 cubic feet). To reach Fernley Sanitation from Burning Man head south through Nixon and Wadsworth. When the road ends at 427 go left. (either direction takes you to I-80) You'll go under I-80 and past the Pilot Gas Station on your right. Stay on Main Street to the light. At the light, make a right onto Alternate US Highway 95a. Go about 2 miles and on the left you will see the Public Wreckage Disposal building.Stop at the scale house on your way in.

In Lockwood, LOCKWOOD LANDFILL (775-342-0401) will be open only on Saturday & Sunday of Labor Day Weekend. They will not be open on Monday of Labor Day Weekend. They operate 7:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. seven days a week except holidays. The charge is $3.75 per cubic yard with a $1.00 environmental fee per vehicle. Head West on I-80; get off at the Mustang exit (number 23). Go straight and continue past the cattle guard for approximately 2 miles. The entrance is on the left-hand side.

RENO DISPOSAL SERVICES (775-329-8822) will be OPEN through the entire Labor Day weekend. Hours are 6 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday - Saturday and 8 a.m.-6 p.m. holidays and Sunday. The location in Reno is 1390 Commercial Row. Charge is $5.50 per cubic yard. From I-80 westbound, take exit 14 and go south on Wells Avenue. Make a left turn onto 6th Street and then a right onto Sutro Street. Make a left onto Commercial Row and look for 1390 on your left.

http://www.burningman.com/on_the_playa/garbage_recycling/take_trash.html

Cross Sidhe

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 3 replies

Traving Through California to BRC???

2008-06-13T23:39:10Z

For those of us who are traveling through California to get to BRC. Here is a helpful website to plan your route:

http://www.dot.ca.gov/

This is the official Caltrans website. On it is where you can check for road contitions in California. This includes detours and lane closures.

I will keep you informed if I head of any major closures around the time of Gates Open.

Cross Sidhe

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 1 reply

Virgins, What do you REALLY want to get out of Burning Man?

2008-06-13T03:46:17Z

Besides a hangover and some good luvin'?

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 17 replies

In & Out Passes

2008-06-13T00:18:35Z

Hello~

I'm not a newb but have a question I thought would be best asked here. Due to work reasons my boyfriend cannot at all get out of, he has to leave the playa and return a couple days later. I read on the B-Man site you need to buy a $20 in/out pass at the gate on the way out or they won't let you back in without a new ticket in hand. Has anybody done this and was it as smooth a process as it seems? No problems getting back in?

Thanks!

And for the record my vote on the other thread is sarongs are hot on guys! You can hold it up well with a belt on too. Just fold the sarong over the top.

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 4 replies

nervous

2008-06-12T17:39:51Z

everytime i talk to a friend who says he or she is going to go and we make plans to go together, they flake out on me. i think its going to be like this the entire time...all the way until the date to leave. it seems to me, in my life, this is just the way my life is. always last minute because i cant count on anyone. so i still have no idea who im going with or how im getting there or where im camping or anything at all. im in san francisco and i want to stay at burning man as long as i can...no half-stays. message me and we can chat about each other, or is there a craigslist type thing where people describe themselves and what theyre looking for?

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 13 replies

Born again virgin !!!

2008-06-12T06:19:31Z

And I never thought I could be a virgin again....heading to 08 BM for first time. This tribe was recommended by someone on the BMtribe. Anyway, what kind of volunteering is out their? I have tools or materials that might be of use then i'll bring if not and just hands are good then I suppose I can bring my hands ; )

Wicked cool can't wait

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 6 replies

Roll call!! Who's going to BBQ-A-Noob-Burner this week in SF?

2008-06-12T06:14:12Z

I know Bare was talking about the event coming up this weekend in another post, and we are making our way up to SF to meet everyone!! We were just wonderin... who's going? :)

Here's the info, copy/pasted from the other thread-

for those that don't get the Jack Rabbit Speaks... this one is LOTS of fun.. hope to see ya there....

Hey Burners Everywhere,

If you happen to be in the Bay Area or know of peeps that will be,
come and join us for our annual ***BBQ-A-Noobie Voulnteer
Pic-i-nic***!!! This is where we cook up new burners... YUM... and
have some fun. This event is for virgin and seasoned burners and a
great way to meet some new peeps! So here's the haps, now go and mark
your calendar:

***BBQ-A-Noobie Volunteer Pic-i-nic***

Lindley Meadow
Golden Gate Park, SF.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
11am-5ish pm

---
Map Here: tinyurl.com/6hj46k
---

**Open call for Theme Camp participation and for
Entertainers, Musicians, Games, Activities, etc...

*Are you a Theme Camp that wants to participate in the Picnic?
*Do you have a band? Do you sing or perform in some cool way?
*Have you got fun activities or games to share with our Noobies?

If YES, then we want to hear from YOU!
Please reply to: partyradar@burningman.com for more details or
to sign up!

---

Bring your virgins, your newbies, your dust-free friends...And introduce
them to the Burners in their backyard.
This as an event FOR and BY Burning Man volunteers and
their NOOBIE friends...(yes, bring your kids too!)...
"If you are a Burning Man volunteer, or are a virgin burner
"NOOBIE" who wants to meet burners and learn more about the
event, this picnic is for YOU!"

This here is a Potluck BBQ...
Bring something for the grill, or a dish to share, or drinks to share.
It's self-reliant, Burner do-ocracy, gift economy-style! After
all, we're out to ed-ju-ma-cate them virgins on how we 'do it'.

BBQ-A-NOOBIE SURVIVAL GUIDE...
"You must bring everything with you to survive the pic-i-nic"
*At least 12 oz beer per adult, per hour. (But no kegs, park rules).
*Enough grillable food for you and your group.
*Layered clothing that preferably sparkles.
*A good folding camp chair or picnic blanket.
*'Leave No Trace' garbage bags.
*Sunscreen.
*Common sense, an open mind, and a positive, playful attitude.
*Coleslaw/Frito Pie/Potato Salad/Baked Beans/Ambrosia.
*Goggles and face masks in case of dust storms or bear attack.

*Virgins! Noobies! More Virgins!

Somewhat like BRC, a certain level of stuff will be provided:

Such as charcoal, plates, utensils, and condiments. You know, the basics...
yes, condiments!

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 9 replies

Words of Wisdom - Passing along to all virgins- MUST READ

2008-06-11T23:50:50Z

First of all, the following words were given to me by fko's...read and become enlightened...

Theme camps are assigned space ahead of time.
They will make those announcements soon and there will be a map of the city posted for everyone to get a feel for the layout of this years city, including what space is reserved for what. Every other space is first come first serve, with abit of co-operative communication with your neighbors when you get there.

Many people set up there camps before hand (like a trial run)), to make sure they know all their space and equiptment needs.

Even smarter people camp with their campmates befor egoing to Bunringman to make sure evryone is on a simular page.

Good lucjk and welcome Home.

For use as you deem fit.

¥FEW DAYS IN THE DESERT
PRE-GUIDE IDEA COLLAGE BY FUCKÆ

“Creative minds have always been known to survive any kind of bad training.” Anna Freud

bWelcome to a few days in the desert.
For those people who have been to the Burningman dessert festival before, they are often asked to provide information and advice to those who haven’t. This is, for the most part, very difficult at best and futile at worst. You may often hear the phrase” You’ll just have to see for yourself”. Still, most of us want to try and share our experiences and thus help a new burner have a better time than if they just showed up. In fact, even veteran Burners can be better prepared by sharing information, experience and efforts in a way that paints pictures, conveys ideas and ultimately makes us all more interacting. After much consideration and discussion with others, I have the following insights, advice and recommendations for anyone.

Question~ “I’ve read all the official “Burningman.com” web page stuff and seen all the pictures but...
what is a few days in the desert really like, what is it really about and what is really going on? Is it a concert? A flea market? What?”

Answer~ Technically, A few days in the desert or BURNINGMAN is a festival held in the dessert, where about 35,000 people, live and camp together with nothing specific to celebrate or be festive about except witnessing what happens to you from the time you get there till the time you leave. In other words, a really big, free-form campout. You have to bring everything including water, food and shelter.

In reality, Burningman has outgrown it’s technical definition. In other words, the point of the campout may be far more important than the camping itself. This “point” however, changes from person to person. For some, it is an art festival. For others it is about “radical self expression“ otherwise known as “Art“, “an experiment in temporary community” otherwise known as “Camping“, personal exploration, spontaneous relationship experience, survival, cool gadget usage, body worship, sex, drugs, music, dancing, spirituality, humanity, scenery, entertainment or profound chaos and a whole lot of braving the elements. A painting of the dessert canvass with human creative expression , if you will. It is a an event that people feel inspired to bring a piece of furniture that has been turned into a car. It is a place where people ride bicycles decorated to look like flying saucers, animals and Elvis. It is a place where someone may perform spontaneous sock puppet shows or give cold carrots to perfect strangers or simply walk into the dessert air and sing their true song. It is a weird place, mostly on purpose. It is a place of nudity in all manner of speaking. It is a place of costumes both bright and dark. It is a place of party and profound. It is a place where you can probably get away with being , or doing, or trying that desire within you. The one you know is out of place, in the larger world. It is a place where each person goes individually inspired to experience collectively. This person to person shift of personal motivations, reasons, intentions, expectations help create the weather patterns that become the atmosphere known as Burningman..

Because our host have designed things in a way where all of these things are a possible, there isn’t a lot of arguing about what is and what is not Burningman. So ultimately, there is no way to answer this question without experiencing it yourself. Not only do you decide what Burningman is, you decide what it is for you. Essentially, each event is made up as we go along. We bring exactly to the experience what our individual gifts allow us to and the over all character of the event reflects over 35,000 different personalities who are actively camping, living, playing, celebrating, learning, dancing, painting, listening, talking, yelling, loving, lusting, looking, touching, eating, smelling, tasting and trying to do it in some vague spirit of happiness, healthy community and togetherness despite unfamiliarity.

You may decide you want to go to experience the large dancing parties that spring up (there is lots of people who bring DJ set ups). You may decide you want to go to witness the amazing variety of large scale dessert art. (there are not art police at Burningman). You may decide you want to feel the lick of the fire culture ( flame throwers, burning art, fire spinning ahh..... the allure). You may decide to feel the sun across your bare flash as you roam without destination, schedule or any attention to particular (The act of an aimless wander is a magic few dare.) Any of these things may be yours to soak in, yet.... Burningman comes with price. A community of this scale needs you contribute. You become responsible not only for experience these things. You are charged with to bringing them for others Burningman is a “Doacracy“. If you are aware of something that needs/wants/would be great to be done, you are charged to “do” it. No spectators. Everyone is participant. In this way, people are encouraged to do more than attend Burningman for consumption and be entertained. You share equal role in the show. You must bring your skills, your talents and your self into the fray. If you are a person who likes to watch from the sidelines, you’ve picked the wrong event. If you are ready to take a leap into the unknown, you are home.

Indeed some of the first words you may hear at Burningman is “ Welcome Home!”.

ÁIMAGINE

What would the world be like if it were free form the many assumptions about social order? Would it spiral out of control into selfishness and destruction, or would it finally give peace a chance?
If you can imagine all the things that happen when 35, 000 campers come to live together in the dessert under a philosophical umbrella that encourages radical self expression, discourages commercial vending, and has few formal guidelines for behavior, you’re getting close to the mark. But lets try to paint a mental picture. Imagine arriving on a very dusty flat dry lake bed to a tent city. There are roads and designated camping areas. Before you park, you notice that the majority of people you see are either dust covered nude, dust covered partial nude or dust covered costume. By week’s end you’ll be aware that the majority of the population remains permanently costumed in dust, nudity, glitter and all manner of leather and furs. The majority of camps are artfully decorated and the camps range from one to hundreds. Many of those camps will welcome you in to view their art, their science project, their music, their community experiment and all manner of interaction. Artcars, art bikes and art mobiles roam the streets and open areas of the dessert. Away from the camps, these areas of open dessert are sprinkled with random works of artwork both giant and small. This open dessert area is for exploration and wander, wonder and “your” experience. In fact, most everyplace you go is generally designed for you to be welcomed and visit. You are informally expected to be a constant participant rather than a spectator by not simply finding these things at the festival, but you in turn are found by others. This experience perpetuates a honest friendly nature that seeds smiles and hugs between strangers. It gives life to artistic inspiration and expresses itself in way that range from outright silly to thoughtful irony. It is a land that takes advantage of as much freedom as time, resource and condition permit. It is as free as it gets, in this day and age.
Author Haikem Bey describes a similar situation where a group of people decide to liberate an area of land to be a “Temporary Autonomous Zone”. A space that is dedicated for unspecified use, adventure and experience. You do not know what will happen, only that you are there to do what you will, and have what other people do, affect you in like. An empty playground that fills with people and their ideas and things and actions to whatever ends. This is not a production of passive entertainment. Anyone who shows up expecting to be catered to is in for a big disappointment. It is a experience you help create by what you interact with. If 35,000 boring people showed up, the event would be very boring. As it happens, the majority of people who show up, tend to be very creative, very expressive and incredibly interactive. They hope you will be too.
Someone once said that Burningman is a place where you go to be the person you can not be the rest of the year. This may or may not be true for you.. of course. But if it were true, then history will show that so far, most people lack radical kindness, art and celebration in their lives. Cause there has been a whole lot of that, at Burningman.

“Burningman is a festival. The object is to celebrate!” Fucko

QUESTION~ Isn’t really just an excuse for a bunch of hippies, new-agers and ravers to party?
ANSWER~ Well, maybe. But I’ve never seen ravers pick up trash after themselves. I’ve never seen new agers not protesting large-scale public intrusions to the natural environment and I’ve never seen hippies take flame throwers and destroy other people’s artwork in full view of an audience. I never witnessed a grand parade of naked people celebrating by dancing with fire, people yelling obscenities through bull horns at 3 am, and dangerous artwork spring out of the dessert floor without rhyme or reason anywhere else in the world. A temporary city filled with over 20,000 bicycles, 1,000 art cars, 30,000 wandering costumes, 500 free bars, countless spontaneous dance clubs and giant interactive artwork, art shows and artist all for more than a week. So maybe it’s just a party. Except I hate parties but I love my week in the dessert.

µAPPROACH A FEW DAYS
I suggest, the more you prepare, the less you can worry. The less time you spend worrying, the more time you can spend enjoying. The tricky part is taking your responsibilities to yourself into great account and leaving your expectations of everyone else at home. The extreme weather and intense participation means Playa life can be very harsh on a person physically, mentally and emotionally. It can also be amazing, wonderful and inspiring. Being aware of this can help you minimize your discomfort and maximize your sensitivity to enjoyment. This is a very important aspect of the event. There is no guarantee that you will love Burningman, but if your are to have a “life altering, earth shattering full on community orgasm experience“, I suggest you need to be ready for it, open to it and recognize it once it appears.

XCOMPRESSION
Many of us spend time adjusting to life on the Playa, as it can be quit different than the world we are used to most of the year. The habits of the world need time to disappear for a while so a new adventure can take place (Like deep-sea divers do before they can travel to very deep places of the earth. In your nervous system, this is called “Repetitive Expectant Neuro-Performance Adjustment“~ meaning it physically takes you nervous system a day or two to re-wire itself for different activities, i.e. sleep patterns, physical activities and responsibility concerns). Many people call it compression. It is essential to comfort, one of our primary instinctual drives. Many believe the shorter the time it takes feel comfortable at the festival, the more time can be spent enjoying it. Being well prepared physically and mentally are the biggest means you have to do this. (Like training for happiness or becoming a self happiness expert!)

pPARTICIPATION
“The giving of yourself is the greatest gift you can give to us!“ Relationships are created, neighbors meet one another, and our collective survival is challenged. A city is born and then... poof, it vanishes. Not by giant corporate event trucks and paid staff, but by us. We build it. You may want to become part of this. It is difficult to take role in the community if you here for less than 24 hours or keeping to yourself. This is generally not a spectator event. After taking care of your survival, everything else is up to you. Being outrageously decadent is great fun but it may be more amazing to be a version of awesome self and share it with others. Giving and receiving acceptance of self and other is awesome way alive! Consider Living life as art! Consider being an ultra version of yourself. ~ ULTRA ME!

For maximum enjoyment of the event, there are a few great options before hand, during and after.
Volunteer Connection~ You can join practically any volunteer camp just by showing up and saying you want to. There are no “club” requirements. Do as little or as much as you want. Volunteering is a great way to get involved, meet people and become a part of the spontaneous collective of Burningman
Positive Self Manifest~ Close your eyes and imagine what kind of time you would have, if when you came home, you had the most amazing stories, awesome memories and incredible experiences. Now set out to create those times and ask people for help in doing so.
Blind Open Optimism~ Just show up and see what happens.
Revolutionary Driven~ If ever there is another moment, theme it as if it were never to be again. Compose music as if your soul would never hear it again. Create art as if ones eyes could never again thereafter hold its beauty. Express in every moment being who you truly are and what you truly feel. Take everything and send it's every form out into every world. Be publicly inspired without restraint. Be free!

³COMMUNITY GOALS
Participation without negative infringement. It is a difficult task to be as much of yourself as you can be without steeping on the toes of others, but apparently this is our task. I suggest becoming familiar with and understand the stated Principles (hypocrisies and all) behind the event beforehand and then try to forget them. They will remain in your sub-conscious and still allow you to be an amazing version of yourself without worrying about it(besides, playa nazis will remind you if you go to far).
Statement of some people’s Principles:

Radical Inclusion ~Anyone may be a part of a few days. We welcome and respect the stranger. No prerequisites exist for participation in our community (except the ticket thing).
Gifting~ A few days is devoted to acts of giving. The value of a gift is unconditional. Gifting does not contemplate a return or an exchange for something of equal value (ex ticket).
Decommodification~ In order to preserve the spirit of gifting, our community seeks to create social environments that are unmediated by commercial sponsorships, transactions, or advertising (except our own). We stand ready to protect our culture from such exploitation. We resist the substitution of consumption for participatory experience (even if we fail).
Radical Self-reliance~ A few days encourages the individual to discover, exercise and rely on his or her inner resources.
Radical Self-_expression~ (otherwise known as ART) Radical self-_expression arises from the unique gifts of the individual. No one other than the individual or a collaborating group can determine its content. It is offered as a gift to others. In this spirit, the giver should respect the rights and liberties of the recipient.
Communal Effort~ Our community promotes social interaction through collective acts of gifting. We value creative cooperation and collaboration. We strive to produce, promote and protect social networks, public spaces, works of art, and methods of communication that enable such interaction.
Civic Responsibility~ We value civil society. Community members who organize events should assume responsibility for public welfare and endeavor to communicate civic responsibilities to participants. They must assume responsibility for conducting events in accordance with local, state and federal laws.
Leaving No Trace~ Our community respects the environment. We are committed to leaving no physical trace of our activities wherever we gather. We clean up after ourselves and endeavor, whenever possible, to leave such places in a better state than when we found them.
Participation~ Our community is committed to a radically participatory ethic. We believe that transformative change, whether in the individual or in society, can occur only through the medium of deeply personal participation. We achieve being through doing. Everyone is invited to work and to play. We make the world real through actions that open the heart.
Immediacy~ Immediate experience is, in many ways, the most important touchstone of value within our community. We seek to overcome barriers that stand between us and a recognition of our inner selves, the reality of those around us, participation in society, and contact with a natural world exceeding human powers. No idea can substitute for this experience.
ºCOMMUNITY RESPONSIBILITY~ “There are no rules about how one must behave or express oneself at this event (save all the rules and guidelines and suggestions that serve to protect the health, safety, and experience of the community at large); rather, it is up to each participant to decide how they will contribute and what they will give to this community.”.

In general, the community (in buying a ticket) agrees to observe the following rules as follows:
Do not drive cars in camp (except registered art cars.. excuse me.. Mutant Vehicles).
Respect public boundaries (Stay out of staff area but within the big trash fence)
No commercial vending (except ice, coffee, tea at the center Cafe and T-shirts on the website)
LEAVE NO TRACE (pack it in, pack it out, absolutely no trash! Smoke in the air is ok.)
Observe fire rules (which are to numerous to keep track of.)
No Dogs (only people pretending to be animals allowed)
Your camp sound should not serious disrupt other camps (except rave camps)
No ticket no entry (unless you officially work for the BORG or sneak in)
Local, state, federal laws are still apply and can be enforced (yes, there are some cops)
No fire arms (previously.. “don’t shoot firearms at people“ but now “No Firearms“)

“Dammit! Stop telling people what to do, and inspire them instead!” Deadmanshoe

MINDFULL/EMPTY

j OPEN & WISE MIND
Open and Wise Mind ~ (Sounds all mystical don’t it?) I think it is important to approach Burningman as both a naive, curious child and a wise, experienced elder. This involves suspending judgments as you discover the wonderful differences of others while providing good care for yourself as well. This formula is my best suggestion for an approach platform to having healthy (and still wild) life in Black Rock City.

Ã EXPECTATION CHECK
Identifying and placing healthy expectations is a big skill that goes real far. Being honest and realistic is a great tool to stay out from drama’s negative trap. Many people practice ‘NO DRAMA” Unless of course you are acting, and then it is very much encouraged and often incited. But people who come with high expectations about being entertained, taken care of, respected, paid attention too and who expect their personal values reflected in others, are bound for disappointment. Expectations are a form of predictability and an attempt of control. A good thing in “every day life” but a disaster to playa potential. A “No Rules” society (in reality) means personal explorations, boundary adventures, unrestricted flights of inspiration and spontaneous whims (my favorite). Many people wait patiently and responsibly all year, for this one time & place they can abandon strict judgments and befriend their outrageous, awesome selves.

Û CONFLICT RESOLUTION
Forgiveness, compassion and patience. These are the corner stones of all well-achieved suggestions for starting all problem resolution. Most problems on the playa exist because of the environment. The weather and its effects are harsh. The good news is that you will be surrounded by other people whom (given history) are almost always willing and often capable of lending a helping hand, whether it be fixing a flat tire or finding a great party. But the real big problems come from people problems, which can end better than before or worst that imaginable. Many broken hearts have found open words on the playa and most of these disputes were avoidable in reaction more than in action. Real emergencies and safety issues can always be dealt with as needed but it’s the “expectation” crosses that burn bad. In our camp, we pride ourselves on two simple conflict avoidance skills;

Refuse personal intrusions in other people’s problems and all problems will
be discussed at an appropriate time, in an appropriate place, in a non-blaming manner.

“Taste is the enemy of creativity” Pablo Picasso

Å SELF CARE~ RADICAL SELF RELIANCE
You need lots of skills. The biggest of these skills is the basic one. Radical Self Reliance.

YOU MUST BRING ALL YOU NEED TO SURVIVE.

Every participant is charge with bringing with them, all the water, food, shelter, fuel, equipment and entertainment they will need for their stay. Radical self reliance, self- containment or radical self-sufficiency is more than just a knowing what to pack. It can also be a state of mind. Preparing a base, a camp, an area for self care can provide a kind of confidence. A trust that allows you to go out and explore. Go out and extend yourself. Some people take so much care for themselves, the isolate themselves off from the rest of the city. To each their own. But everyone is responsible for making sure they are taken care of, even if that means taking care of themselves. This doesn’t mean you are left to fend for yourself out there, quite the opposite. It means the better care you give yourself, the better care you can give care to others. In our camp we agree ahead of time to collectively take care of certain items, and give rise to the ability to bring more stuff instead of doubling up. I’ve included an equipment list at the end of this compilation you can use to ensure you have your basics covered. Many of the items will determine both your safety and your happiness.

wWEATHER EARTH WIND AND FUCKING FIRE
EARTH~ The Black Rock Dessert (also known as “the Playa”) is a prehistoric lake bed. It is made of an alkali clay (slightly acidic) and creates a fine duct that sticks to everything. So, it is a dusty place that no plant life grows in. The dessert is at 4000ft elevation so it takes about 24 hrs for us sea level people to acclimatize. It is wide open and hostile. Most think it Beautiful.
WIND~ The range is 0 mph to 70 mph. That means unpredictable white out dust storms that will blow away anything not secure to the ground with 12” to 36” stakes. Be careful of blow away things, trash and delicates. But mostly, the wind is very tolerable. The wind is the biggest reason that most people wear goggles at Burningman. Goggles and dust mask or scarves are highly suggested. Many of us believe that tinted goggles are a mandatory item to bring (any motorcycle shop or army surplus store) for they serve dual purpose.
FIRE~ The sun and heat are a different matter. Temperatures range from 40° f to 110°, in a single day so bring cloths for both hot days and fun cold nights. Your high adventure backpacking gear is great but big furry costumes work just as well and are much more fun, so a range of cold and warm costumes are what most of us try to achieve. But you bring what you want or can, we love you regardless. The sun has more UV up there, so bring as much sun screen, with as much SPF as you can. Staying cool is a big issue up there. Shade structures that can both brave the winds and still provide shade is an art. Think windy, shade and portable and decorative = Shade geeks.
THE SKY IS FALLING~ It can and does rain up there so a camping poncho can be useful and keeping your cloths in big ziplock bags help keep rain and playa dust from getting into your gear until you use it. After that, playa dust is there to stay. This is a good time to mention you might want to consider taking none of your expensive clothes. Playa dust only comes out with vinegar (if at all) so most of us only take gear we are willing to be destroyed or eternally covered with a fine white film of a Few Days dust. The sunsets at are among the most magnificent in the world.

»WATERHYDRATION
It is suggested that you have at least 1.5 gallons of water per person per day. This idea works pretty good. The motto “PISS CLEAR” means you drink enough water that your urine is mostly excess water. If your pee doesn’t look more like water and less like beer, chances are, you are not well hydrated. Do be careful about making sure you have some salt (a handful of salted nuts or salty soup) every day to allow for water absorption by your body. If you bring this much water with you it will provide you with enough for your drinking, cooking, and bathing. Some suggest flavoring your water as well (It makes for great showers). Do bring a portable water carrier (canteen, water bottle with strap, camelback etc.) Another trick to get your body to absorb more water is to start drinking lots of water now. By the time you get to the playa, your body will be used to producing enough salt on it’s own.
Dehydration can cause headaches, stomach cramps, abdominal pains, constipation, or flu-like symptoms. It exacerbates both heat-related and cold-related conditions (i.e. both sunstroke and hypothermia), and makes it difficult for the body to mend itself. If someone you know complains of these symptoms, or shows signs of either severe overheating or (worse) a case of the chills under the mid-day sun, get them to shade immediately and seek prompt medical help.

Some signs that you may not be drinking enough water:
· You don't carry a water bottle with you at all times.
· You sip instead of drinking deeply.
· You wait to drink until you're thirsty (too late!).
· Your urine is anything but clear and abundant.
· You become cranky.

\FOOD
Oddly enough, many do not eat much up there but that goes against better training so I always plan on at least two meals a day and provisions for extra if needed (soups, pasta etc). If everyone plans on bringing their own food and their own menu for themselves, it works really well. Some people love to cook for others and that is great. Bring enough to share but be careful of waste. Community meals “where everyone eats the same food and take turns doing chores” usually turns out horrible on the playa. Very few people eat at the same time, prepare food in the same way, or feel like doing chores making a scheduled kitchen a “recipe for disaster” (pun). The “take care of your own food” works great. Most would not suggest bringing more than a day or two of perishables. Ice coolers need to be maintain each day. Meats and fresh fruits do not last long in them. Still, it is camping. It is great to have specialty treats, many of which can be canned or dried (fruits, puddings, cakes ummm good!). Snack foods are great and great things to share. Avoid anything with melting mixes (chocolates, gummy candies get really messy, but are sometimes worth it.) Maybe you can invent methods of keeping more of this stuff out there!

@LIQUOR
“ I hardly know her!” (I know another pun but hey.. my name is Fucko.) Do plan to bring your own additives, favorite libations and relevant mixes, props and do hickies. Also try to bring some extra for donatables to the camp bar and for gifting in other camps (It can be a gift economy). There are cocktail parties. Airline shot bottles work great as gifts but you can obviously be as creative as you like. If you do drink up there, please drink more water. Alcohol dehydrates people. If you can find a nice decorative or favorite cup it makes it easier to know who’s whos as well. Oddly enough there is not a lot of drunkenness despite all the booze. It might be the altitude. But that never stops most of us from trying. More importantly, it doesn’t stop many from acting drunk, whether they are or are not.

+FIRST AID
It is suggested to get a small first aid kit for yourself filled with your favorite dinosaur band-aids. Some keep a bigger one in camp. It is suggested to bring lots of UVF and SPF lotion for your skin (I mean a very big bottle), aloe gel or other burn cream. Aspirin/Ibuprofen/ Acetaminophen are life savers for altitude headaches and nose & eye drops (saline solution) are highly recommended. The playa dust has a way of drying out the skin and the sun has a way of burning people (Not in the good way, like BAD is GOOD when it’s “I’M BAD“, but like when it sucks.) In case of emergency, get help! There is a medical tent at Burningman with an ambulance.

±DAS FOOT
Your feet will be working overtime so it is suggested treating them well or getting someone else to treat them well for you. Most do not plan on walking around barefoot (even if you are otherwise nude, yea!) even if you are used to it. The Playa is an alkali lakebed and will leave you poor footies dry and burned after only a few hours. Boots are great, soft shoes are fine. It does rain occasionally so pointed hells tend to sink in the mud (although it never stops me from wearing them. I’m just saying don’t plan on using your Stiletto's as your sole footwear.) There are foot soaps and lotions that will help protect your feet. Morning foot lotions & wearing socks as much as possible is very helpful. Try to remember that, just because your wearing shoes doesn’t mean you can’t paint your toenails. You might also consider getting a good tan before you go.

ÊGARBAGE
THERE IS NO GARBAGE SERVICE AT BURNINGMAN. You must pack out everything you pack in. The motto is “Leave No Trace“. It is one of the conditions that The Bureau of Land Management uses to permit us to be in the Black Rock Dessert.

ÄPOTTY
There are Port O Potties. It is one of the reasons we pay for a ticket. They are cleaned daily and adequate. You may want to bring your own Toilet Paper. If you are squeamish about Port o potties, plan on bringing your own toilet that you can pack out your own waste.

hSHOWER
The playa makes people really grimy, really fast. It’s a combination of the alklide dust in the air, sweat and exposure to both. Portable solar camping showers (buy one cheap at any camping goods store, even Target) a have at it. Some people prefer to sponge bath in the privacy of their tent but most wash fully or partial nude out in the open (both very acceptable, yea!). Bring a sponge or wash cloth, a towel and some biodegradable soap (Dr Bronner’s works great.)

WASTE WATER~ Showers mean soapy water. You don’t want to endure the wrath of the Playa Nazis buy dumping it on the ground or trying to bury it in a hole. Some people build elaborate evaporation ponds. Some people use a small kiddy pool as a catch and then put the waste water in containers (milk jugs or other) and pack it out. Some of us have learned to use a spray bottle (garden mister) as a shower on a tarp (very little water that evaporate quickly) or on towels that can be easily hung to dry afterwards.

ãCOSTUMES
Much of A Few Days is involved with Radical Self Expression. For many, this involves the use of costumes (including lack of). The wilder the wilder! Go postal! Be eclectic, be electric! But mostly just have fun with it. As far as costumes go, anything goes, and I mean anything. Mix and match, little or lots but please do be careful about anything that will fall off of you and become trash (ie. Feather boas are generally considered taboo and will incite trash lectures from the do-gooder playa nazis). There are both day and night time activities and adventures so colors are great both day and night and anything that glows, lights you up or makes you shinny are easy ways of being visually loud (if you can enjoy it). Paint your skin, carry a puppet, light yourself with EL wire, be your favorite fictional character or whatever. Soft furry costumes are great at night and most of us like to have one soft outfit for times of great community. Costumes are not mandatory nor determine how valuable you are. (Stripper and S&M costumes that glow in the dark rock!)

ÀMAKE UP
It is suggested to bring lots. Not only can you wear it, but we can borrow it! Make up also helps protect your skin and if your get make up with sun block in it, you are on your way to happiness. Make up helps some of us in and out of the moment and it also makes for great pictures our children will love to laugh at many years from now. Hair colors, henna, body paint, temp tattoos, and costume jewelry, are great cheap ways to decorate oneself. Anyone with long hair may want to prepare for what we call “playa dreads”. This is caused by the enormous amounts of wind, playa dust and sweat. Pony tails, braids and hats are all useful but to be honest, “ playa hair” looks great on anybody and is easily washed away if it isn’t.

¥BICYCLE
Bike, a Bike, my kingdom for a Bike. The only way to get any real distance, in any reasonable amount of time is by Bike. A Few Days is a bicycle city. The city itself is miles long and the multi attractional playa is miles across. Most people bring a decent working junk bike that can get thrashed by the playa (and by decoration). Big tires are best. Make sure you have a very comfortable seat. No matter how much you ride, the soft bumpy playa has a way of creating bruised tailbones in a day’s time. Many of us use a stuffed animal or pillow and some duct tape. Decorate your bike any way you like but again, making sure nothing can fall off of it (ie. feathers, loose ribbons, etc. create trash) will keep you from public scrutiny. Bike Lights are considered a highly necessary item. At night you will be riding with thousands of other bikes in a very dark dessert, in many a sandstorm. It is easy to lose your way, lose you friends and be run over by other bikes and art cars, all of whom have drivers with questionable perception abilities. Lights and reflective tapes are highly recommended and make it easier for you to find (especially if you stop somewhere to bust a move). Also bring a bike lock. A cable with a pad lock is best because you can secure your bike to your friends. Make multiple keys and if you do lose your keys, light cables allow for being cut off. (Kryptonites do not allow for any of these things.). There are thieves on the playa, but mostly we worry about someone who is too high to tell the difference and POOF! A borrowing has left you bike-less. It has happened to us before. A clip on umbrella is an awesome thing.

ÖLIGHTING
1 or 400 flashlights is recommended. 5 is best. Do try to have at least 2-3. Headlamps work the best for most. It can be very dark on the playa despite all the amazing lighting efforts there. The truth is that flashlights have poor ability to make it through a drunken, high or even an energetic evening. Lost or broken is a very common experience. Glow sticks, battery lights, EL wire, portable floresants, LED are just fantastic (although glowsticks create trash). Some recommend, for the cheap goer, a trip to the toy store (educationals are best) and pick up a light saber, ray gun, or other lighted toy. Basically anything that lights you up at night and the stuff around you, is great. Bicycle strobes, rave toys, glow necklaces, are all great ways to participate in all the night festivities. You may need lanterns in camp. Some people opt for fire instead of bulb, and you can to.

ÊSLEEPING
Do bring a tent, if you have one. If not, do not fret, you can find another I’ll bet. If you plan on buying one, try to get one with fully closable vents (as the playa dust blows in and covers everything even while you are trying to sleep). But make sure it has vents (the heat is unbearable without). Also, 12” stakes or two ’ rebar are pretty much mandatory (those 6 “ones that come with the tents don’t do shit to keep your whole tent flying away in the 40 to 70mph winds). Many recommend bringing an air mattress (and air pump) or sleeping cot (although it’s hard to get busy on a sleeping cot. I know it’s been done, I’m just saying it’s difficult.) and any sleeping bag (for when it gets cold) and sheets and blankets for when it is hot. Since you are technically on vacation, you may feel encouraged to bring you to bring your favorite pillows, stuffed animals and bedtime stories. It may help to keep your sleeping stuff in a plastic trash bag during the day (to keep out the dust, at least for a day or two, till you give up trying to stay dust free). A little decorative fabric goes a long way in creating a not-so camping experience and incense and door mats are awesome ways to spice things up. I even know of a guy who hangs small replicas of famous paintings up in his tent. Earplugs are great! The parties run 24/7 out on the playa so if there happens to be a rave going on next door and it’s 6am and time for you to refresh your physical self, earplugs can save your sanity (If you have any to begin with and plan on keeping it).

¿SEX
Figure out what you want. Love? Sex? Your wildest fantasies? Go for it! Just be respectful. Just because people are walking around naked does not necessarily mean they wish *you* were naked in a small enclosed space with them. Learn to take “no” as to mean “not with you” and don't be afraid to use the "n" word yourself (nooky?).
It is always a great idea to be well stocked with sex toys, protection and lube, because;
1. Many unsuspecting people have been known to make unexpected snap decisions on the subject.
2. You may want to share goodies with a friend in need who is in a nearby decision.
3. Even nuns masturbate at A Few Days.
The moral of the story is “Be Prepared” regardless of your predisposition on the subject.
Most think you deserve to be a sexually happy as you desire, without guilt... period.

yCOMPANY, COMMUNITY AND COMPANION

It takes about two minutes to become over-stimulated at Burningman. Between the people, the sights and the sounds, you will find yourself in a place where the rules have changed and few things are what they seem. Add in a couple of days of exertion in the heat, sleep deprivation, mild dehydration and decreased appetite, and you may find yourself feeling a bit edgy. Taking it out on those people who are closest to you is an easy thing to do. My best advise is when you feel angry, moody, or mildly unpleasant or find yourself getting ready to pitch a hissy fit....
STOP!
Get out of the sun.
Drink some water.
Eat some food.
Take a nap.
Then... say you are sorry.
You will feel better, I promise.

Æ PEOPLE UN-FRIENDLY PYA
Like dogs, some people just are not comfortable (at all) in the desert. Do yourself a favor, and leave them at home. Pressuring or convincing someone into going, is a sign they probably won’t like it.

±KNOW THY CAMPMATES
This is your home for a few days. As such, it can be as comfortable as possible. This bonding time can be incredibly fun, provided you gel with everyone in your camp. The best way to do this is to get to know them before you go. Campouts, BBQ’s, emails intros are all ways to get to know each other a bit better. Interacting helps convey intentions, values and styles. This helps expectations for going too far off the map. With any organized group, people tend to fall into their natural roles but more importantly, “does everybody in your group has similar goals?” Like Dog People v. Cat People, the People Who Want Party All Night and Eat Food Out of a Can should not camp with the People Who Prepare Elaborate Meals and Do Yoga Every Morning. Not that these people won’t get along, only that surprises in this area tend to be negative and are largely avoidable. Consider thinking ahead and save the headache.

¿PLAYA TIME
People who operate on strict placement and time schedules, are surrounded by others (the majority) who are not. If people don’t show up when or do what they said they would, you might be better off forgiving them beforehand. The Playa has a beautiful way of being spontaneous and awesomely distracting. Allowing for this in everything you do is a wonderful way to get along with the fluid changes and sidetracks of everything there. Factor in the unpredictable weather, environment and hydration and most problems become very apparent a head of time. I suggest we don't take it personally. We just learn to dance with it.

WTRUST
Open, honest and clearly understanding. The desert is considered a bad place for controlling others, demands of respect, being pushy and making expectations of others. These are recipes for disaster. Reality check and honesty (especially with the self) is a great policy. If you truly love a person, you will want them to be happy, even if that happiness does not reflect your interests. Tolerance, forgiveness and understanding.

One of the worst hypocrisies we have at Burningman is the one where we tell people to aspire for freedom, acceptance and discovery, and then tell them “the rules, the suggestions and the goals”. Most of us wish that there was a way to dump all this bullshit beforehand, and just show up with “TRUST”. Trust that everyone either knows how to take care of themselves or will quickly figure it out. This experience would be priceless. On this level can the items that are vital for enjoying our vast and burgeoning experience at Burningman become personal.
Burningman is trusting you.

PLAYA EQUIPMENT LIST

Things many people would rather you not bring:
· Feathers of any kind e.g., boas anything that will break up and/or blow away in the wind (trees, twigs, loose paper, etc~ they shed, no matter what you do - try marabou instead). Excess packaging from foods (For example, remove outer box from cereals and just bring the inner bag.) Basically anything that can makes lots of trash that you can take care of before hand.

PERSONAL (GATTA HAVE) ITEMS

TICKET Tent (12”stakes)
Transportation Food
Warm clothes for cold nights(jacket, hats, gloves, long shirts) 1.5 gallons of H2O (per person /per day)
Cool clothes for hot days (sarongs, skirts, shorts, nothing..) Utensils /hard plate/bowel
Flashlights / head lamps and spare batteries Drinking Cup (re-useable)
Wash kit (bio-degradable soap/ tooth paste/brush etc.) First-aid kit.
A wide brim hat. 2 big trash bag
Sunglasses Sleeping bag (blankets, pillows)
Goggles Enough food/beverages (? 2 meals a day)
Particle/dust mask/scarf Portable water bottle/canteen with strap / Camelback
Prescription drugs/contact lenses /aspirin etc. Lip balm
Sunscreen/sunblock lotion Towel/wash cloths
Aloe gel (for sunburn) Camping chair
Boots/shoes Bottle /can opener
cute underwear/ socks/ PJ’s Pocket knife

SUGGESTIONS & STRONG SUGGESTIONS

* BICYCLE (rig some kind of basket on your bike ) Shade structures, umbrellas, parasols, sheets
Tire repair kit (small) * Small day pack (for roaming around)
* Bike lock (cable with extra keys) * Air Mattress
* Bike lights (flashers etc..) * Earplugs
* Costumes Small personal radio (shower radios are also good for outside)
* Watertight protective bags ( zip-type for your cloths) Rope and/or string.
Sewing kit. Cooler
Musical instruments * Handy wipes
* Spray bottle (for misting) * Duct tape
Gifts to give to new friends Lantern
* Extra set of car & bike keys Mirror
* Camera/ lots of film Journal
* Sex Preparations Make up
Walkie Talkie * Light sticks/ light toys etc.
Camping stove, fuel Small tool kit
Favorite toys , games, books Favorite liquor/tea/coffee/water flavoring
POCKETS ON EVERYTHING Favorite deserts/food treats
Decorative fabric Sense of adventure

EVERYTHING IN BINS ~ PLASTIC BAGS/ SCOTCH GUARD EVERYTHING ~ KEEP SLEEPING GEAR PACKED DURING DAY ~
BREAK IN YOU FOOTWEAR BEFORE ~ PHONES DON’T WORK ~ BRING ONLY COPIED CD’S ~ BRING EXTRA KEYS ~
RE-PACKAGE ALL YOU FOOD WITHOUT EXTRA TRASH ~ ZIP TIES ARE GODLY~ PROTECTIVE CAP ON REBAR STAKES ~
KEEP CLEAN CLOTHS SEALED IN A BAG WITH SOME EXTRA CASH FOR THE TRIP HOME ~

QINSPIRA
One of the best things about Burning Man is all the amazing unexpected things you encounter at random and the way it changes you. You can become one of those unexpected things for others if you try. The following is a list of some concepts ideas and projects that have been inter inspired with me and mine since our Burningman. Maybe it will inspire you to add to it’s pool.

2000 2004 2007
~ irony exploitation ~ excessive survival ~ mockery art camping
~ furniture cars ~ art car demolition ~ temporary brilliance treking
~ foam parties ~ klownology ~ radical backpacking
~ disorder planning ~ insane spectacle ~ mobile self expression
~ decorated naked people ~ fetish illumination ~ tent gallery
~ dangerous bonfires ~ flash art mob ~ backpack a go go
~ unexpected sights ~ 24 hr art ~ pirate radio rave
~ moment liberation ~ alternative energy ~ canopy camping
~ outdoor canvass ~ interactive performance ~ mystery orienteering
~ purposely blurred vision ~ art rave ~ sex doll rafting / surfing
~ bike chariots ~ extreme chef ~ critical campsite
~ portable expressive living ~ recycle costumes ~ port o party
~ innovative inner dialogue ~ armature designer jewelry ~ micro culture jamming
~ boundary technology ~ billboard liberation ~ irony campout
~ physical indulgence ~ nonsense graffiti ~ nonsense portage and haulage
~ celebration explosion ~ body art ~ cavebration
~ mankind on brainstorm ~ kinetic csound ~ theme camp of one
~ sobriety tripping ~ massive moment sculpture ~ silliness expedition
~ flammable arts ~ collective consciousness ~ DIY rave
~ dance naked ~ unauthority ~ High Adventure Formal Dining
~ extreme decomodification ~disposession ~ backpack disco

Some Burningman experiences often require more a state of mind that a set of rules. Read between the lines and find yourself.

Some Burningman DJ's use a...... Bullhorn
Some Burningman Artist take their trash home and Burn their art.
Some Burningman Participants don't make REAL BURNINGMAN LIST (beat ya too it hahahaha)
Some Burningman Organizers pay for their own ticket
Some Burningman DPW build things that make no sense in an area of no usefulness.
Some Burningman Reporters are too high to report actual news.
Some Burningman Radio is an assault to one's comformity. (comfort / conform)
Some Burningman Sports is trying to sleep in that fucking heat.
Some Burningman Advice is never mentioning Burningman.com
Some Burningman Love is coping a feel off everyone you hug.
Some Burningman Is painting your ass red and having your friend chase you around with two rubber horns duct taped to their bike.
Some Burningman Means trying to see how much you can feel like that person, who when afraid, is afraid who you will become if set free.
Some Burningman Makes no Clear sence!
Some Burningman Wants you trying not to be affected by anything around you for as long as possible and being grateful when you fail.
Some Burningman Clothing designers use fire retardant materials to make G string undies.
Some Burningman Chefs Cook better on the Playa than they do at home.
Some Burningman Has a soundtrack...whether music is playing or not.
Some Burningman Faith is knowing the point is to interfere.
Some Burningman People not only maintain a sense of humor and irony, they can hear the terms of endearment in an insult.
Some Burningman Consumers know it's ok to SHOP for "BURNER" shit, it's just lame to SELL or MARKET.... "BURNER" shit.
Some Burningman Advocates know to DO more and CRITICIZE less... unless it's funny to do more criticizing or the criticizing is funny.
Some Burningman Students are audible dyslexic, vision repaired and especially misabled.
There is no such thing as Burningman.

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 0 replies

VIRGINS MUST KNOW!!! Wadsworth/Fernly to BRC

2008-06-11T22:47:24Z

Every seasoned Burner know that the final leg of your journey from Wadsworth/Fernly to BRC you must be real cool. As the popularity of BM increases to does the police presents. When you are on this final stretch of road you MUST OBEY ALL TRAFFIC LAWS!!!

THE COPS WILL BE OUT THERE AND THE WILL HIT HARD!!!

I have seen and hear stories of cars/trucks being searched. Both legally and illegally. Also, they have amost every K-9 in Nevada out on that leg of the journey.

The police can be anywhere. As a rule they are most heaviest in the town that you pass though. When you see a 25 MPH sign then go 23 MPH. If you go 26 then the police will nail you. At stop signs do a complete stop. NO ROLLING STOPS. THERE WILL BE A COP HIDING AT ALL STOP SIGNS!!!.

If you have to pass someone make sure you have the right to pass. The cops know the poplular place where people make illegal passes and they will be there. Especially if there is no passing over a hill. The cops will be hiding on the other side waiting to bust you.

Remember, the cops are looking for that "BIG LOAD". They know people are trafficing "stuff". From something personal to suppling a whole rave for the duration of BM. They know this and they are looking. Also, this is not California. They pot cards are no good. Matter of fact they still hang people in Nevada. So don't even try it.

Drive safe. Drive Slow. This will help you stay out of a Nevada jail.

Cross

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 35 replies

What's up with bacon?

2008-06-11T22:43:10Z

You ever walk into a party and realize there is an inside joke going around that you cannot understand?

As a Virgin, I'm getting a strong sense of some kind of bacon-related joke that I'd love to understand. Everywhere I read about Burning Man, I see bacon references. Perhaps it's obvious to some, but for those of us with our cherries intact, can someone please explain what's with all the bacon?

Thanks in advance...

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 24 replies

monkey hut

2008-06-11T19:32:20Z

are there any links of (very) pictoral instructions on how to build a monkey hut? i'm a visual learner, aka really dumb when it comes to trying to understand written instructions....i get how to build the pvc part, but i'm not getting how to attach the tarp, and i read a post about how some people have replaced the T and X connectors with bike inner tubes....how would you do that?? i'm assuming to stake it down you pull the pvc over the rebar?

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 10 replies

CamelBak?

2008-06-11T18:26:08Z

Well I'm not sure if this is the right thread to be asking this in, but I'm not sure where else to ask... I recently inherited a used CamelBak, which I intend to take out to the Playa with me. However, the drinking tube part has some sort of dark colored film on part of the inside (maybe algae? I'm not sure). I've tried running lots of hot water through the whole thing, as well as a light bleach solution... a couple little flakes of the stuff came off, but most of it is still in there. I'm not sure how to get it out, and I'm not really sure I want to risk drinking bits of it, especially since I don't know what it is. Does anyone have any tips on cleaning the tube out?
Thanks!

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 7 replies

Is that feet I smell?

2008-06-11T09:10:05Z

Why yes! It is feet you smell.

The agony of the feet is serious stuff on the Playa. Bad feet can easily make you less than mobile and seriously limit your experience.

Here are some common terms:

Playa Foot - A skin condition where cracks develop in the skin that are often very painful and a bloody mess. Most often this occurs on the feet but can happen on any skin that is sufficiently exposed to the playa surface.

For example: Installing/removing a lot of rebar without gloves will get you Playa Hand; Missionary position in deep playa will likely land you Playa Knee and Playa Ass (bring a blanket); etc ;)

The Playa Foot condition occurs because the hard playa surface acts as a giant desiccant. It rapidly removes moisture from anything that is in contact with it. The dead skin on our feet, callouses on hands, cuticles and other outer dermal layers are especially susceptible to this drying effect.

Folks often think that Playa Foot is caused by the alkalinity of the Playa. It is not. If the playa was indeed caustic to us, our mucosa membranes in the eyes, mouth, nose and lungs would be the first to burn up. They do not burn up. The playa is just about as alkali as soapy water.

The alkalinity does contribute to the injury once it occurs by preventing the onset of heeling. This is why it is critical to avoid the injury in the first place.

So, the question is: "What can I do to prevent this horrific affliction"?

Start taking care of your feet NOW. It takes about 2 to 3 months to get feet in tip top shape.

_Go and get a pedicure - they will scrape all that nasty dead skin off your feet. Actually get a few pedicures between now and the Playa.

_Got a touch of athletes foot? Get it treated now, so that you feet have time to heal.

_In-grown nails, corns, bunions, blisters, cracks, nicks, cuts ... tend to these now.

When on playa some of the following may help keep your feet healthy:

_Clean socks, I recommend twice daily.

_wash feet & apply lotion before clean socks every time. Even if it is a super quick baby-wipe.

Those super glam kickers you ordered, 6" platform boots etc. better be broken in and blister free BEFORE you go.

If in doubt, always bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes with you.

I 'm certain others will have more pearls of wisdom ...

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 13 replies

Shemaghs?

2008-06-10T18:02:52Z

Anybody recommend using one of these or is it just too hot for a headwrap?

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 6 replies

Carports

2008-06-10T17:47:02Z

My turn for a question.......

I'm thinking of getting a carport to put my tent in. I've not used shade structures over my tents in the past as I spend little time in my tent, until last year, camping right at BMIR, the office so to speak I was in it often. It got so hot cans of coca cola exploded, (yes that sucked big time) fortunately I had a condo in BRC I could live in for the two weeks so it wasn't a big deal, but I digress..........

I want to get one of those 10X20 portable carports. I'm assuming that's 10 feet wide X 20 feet long. The question is how high is the carport in the center? Here's my tent : http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/product/standard-item.jsp?_DARGS=/cabelas/en/common/catalog/item-link.jsp_A&_DAV=MainCatcat20075-cat602107&id=0003770514192a&navCount=9&podId=0003770&parentId=cat602107&masterpathid=&navAction=push&catalogCode=IJ&rid=&parentType=index&indexId=cat602107&hasJS=true

I have the 6 person one which has a floor of 10X10 that should be OK, but it's 100 inches in the center (just under 8.5 feet ).

Anyone have one of these?

This would be a nice solution for me and the additional 10 feet up front would give me room for Bobzilla's Buddah Lounge.

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 33 replies

ticket question

2008-06-10T00:58:11Z

Hi

I've bought 2 tickets on Will-Call, direct through the official Burning Man ticket office. However, I'm not sure that I can actually go this year. Is it possible to get a refund or does someone want to buy them from me?

james

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 1 reply

mid-weeks blues (it's OK)

2008-06-09T14:28:38Z

i don't want to put anybody off with this, but it might be useful to know that a lot of people go through a mid-week downer. i think it happens because you've been all excited for a long time, then you are in a new (harsh) environment, not getting enough sleep, and with a party going on 24/7 outside the thin walls of your tent. add alcohol, dust, and shake vigorously.

if you find yourself wanting to tell everybody to shut up, if you want to pack up and leave, if you suddenly feel like "everybody is having a great time but me!", if you hate the dust,... then you've got the mid-week blues. it usually happens after a couple of days, but it could hit any time.

if it happens, DON'T FREEK OUT. go find a safe space to crawl into and hide yourself for a few hours. drink some water, try to eat something. take a nap. take a night off if you need to. It will pass. it happens to LOTS of people (even "experienced" burners). like storm clouds, it will float away, and you'll be ready to ignore the artcar parked next to your tent with its exhaust in your face and its 8000 watt speakers destroying your ears.

also, try to be aware to notice if one of your campmates is going through something like that. bring them some water, encourage them to relax and take a nap, etc, and plan to do something low key with them a few hours later.

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 18 replies

Rental vehicle for 4 people?

2008-06-08T16:42:22Z

Hi: This is my first year going to BM. I have three friends coming from abroad a few days before, so we'll be a group of four. I reserved a cargo van but I suspect it only seats two people … is there a reasonable vehicle to rent that can take four to the playa? I live in SF but don't own a car, so I'm stuck with whatever I can rent.

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 5 replies

Trade in that old oven mitt for a free BM 08 ticket!

2008-06-07T19:02:02Z

Hello all,

If you have an oven mitt or two (or 300) that you are willing to part with, you MIGHT just win yourself a ticket to Burning Man 08. Here’s the deal: Martini Steve, Killbuck and I are looking for oven mitts to adorn our “Shrine to the Oven Mitt” art project:

http://www.burningman.com/installations/08_art_honor.html#shrine_mitt

We need lots of mitts to decorate the shrine appropriately. Furthermore, we just also happen to have a spare ticket to the event. Instead of just selling the ticket and purchasing the mitts we need, we thought it would be more in tune with the spirit of the event to encourage participation. So we are going to give the ticket to a randomly chosen person from the pool of people who send us mitts.

How do you participate? Send your mitts and a note with your real name, playa name (if you have one), mailing address, phone number and email address to:

Steven Goodman
The Way of the Mitt
100 N Whisman Road, #1924
Mountain View, CA 94043

Email "steve at StevenGoodman.com" if you need a phone number for your shipment.

Donations received on or before the June 14th 2008 (Flag Day - the theme is the American Dream, afterall) will be registered for the raffle. Donations received after that time will not be eligible to win the ticket but will still be used for the project.

How will we choose a winner? You get one chance (or ticket) to win for each different mitt you send us. Send us 18 different mitts – you get 18 chances to win. Send us 4 of the same mitt – get 1 ticket. Homemade, store purchased, new or used mitts are all good with us.

We will put all of the tickets into a bowl and choose a winner and a runner-up. The winner will have one week to acknowledge and arrange to receive the ticket. If for whatever reason we cannot arrange the ticket shipment / pickup with the winner, we will award the ticket to the runner up.

How do you get the ticket? If the winning ticket holder is in the USA, we will ship it UPS / USPS signature required. If the winning ticket holder resides outside of the USA, we will have the ticket waiting for you at Will Call.

Odds of winning: We have no idea – depends on how many people participate. Taxes: The winner pays all of the taxes, duties, etc. on this ticket. We are not liable for either a lost or misplaced ticket. Everything else: We will just have to resolve any other problems and concerns in good faith as they arise.

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 6 replies

Saturday on Shouting Fire!!!!

2008-06-07T15:20:26Z

Saturday is a fabtabulous day to check out www.shoutingfire.com

The hardest working crew in radio that brings you Burning Man Information Radio on the playa brings you Shouting Fire, Internet Radio Not Just For Burners, 24/7, all year long. We have fresh, original programming every day of the week and on Saturday we play it all back to back. Yes, Saturday is repeat day, giving you brand new treats for your ears all day long starting at 10AM and running well past midnight. Music, conversation, interviews, and more.

The Saturday lineup, starting at 10A pacific time, goes something like this:

Your Weekend Bobzilla
Reverend Billy & The Stop Shopping Gospel Choir (recorded live in NYC last month)
Wheelie Houdini is also Patti Schmidt (from Canada)
Crickets with Douglas Wolk
Megacosmic Transmissions with J. Kanizzle (from Washington DC)
Funky Stuff with Doctor Booty
The Viking Youth Power Hour (from Chicago)
The Sound of Plaid with Trademark G
The Show That Has No Name
Violent Relaxation with DJ Murky Logic
Lithium Picnic with DJ Grey (from Portland)

This lovely programming will take you well into the wee hours of Sunday morning. So while you're puttering around the house, getting ready to head out, spending the evening in or just getting back after a long hard night of adventure, point your browser to www.ShoutingFire.com

Check it out.

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 0 replies

Is BM an 18+ age event?

2008-06-07T07:34:42Z

I have a 16yo friend who bought a ticket and plans on going by himself without any legal guardians. Do they ID people at the gate if they look under 18ish?

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 35 replies

relationships and Burning Man

2008-06-05T20:37:02Z

HeatherLyn gave some good tips on relationships in the Advice thread, which reminded me that we could use a thread for it. :) Here's some good links for you folks. Read them. Know them. Share them. Feel good. :)

Burning Man Relationship Survival Guide: http://www.burningman.com/preparation/event_survival/relationships.html

A Single Person's Heart guide to BM: http://tribes.tribe.net/burningmanvirgins2007/thread/df60648b-cfe9-4349-aecc-1890d8f33706

midweek meltdown: http://tribes.tribe.net/burningmanvirgins2007/thread/f5c103b7-cb80-4184-8fcc-17e3146f9939

and here you go boys and girls, your first task of playa self-reliance *drum roll*...

1) search the word "relationship" or "couple" or "meltdown" on past virgin tribes, other BM tribes and ePlaya.
2) read the threads

some links to get you started:
http://tribes.tribe.net/burningmanvirgins2007
http://tribes.tribe.net/bm2006virgins
http://bm.tribe.net/
http://eplaya.burningman.com/

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 28 replies

Playa Domes!

2008-06-04T20:37:55Z

We are interested in getting a dome tent. Does anyone have any information on them? Are they difficult to assemble? I had heard they make a nice living space while on the Playa.

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 7 replies

OT: BURNER NEEDS HELP MOVING

2008-06-03T23:42:39Z

Everybody,

I really really really really really need your help. I cannot really move anything because kidneys have failed and I have had three operations to date. I can not longer lift and I now have limited mobility in my left arm. I need your help.

I need at least two people to help me load my furniture in Petaluma and unload it in storage in Alameda. I plan to load the furniture in Petaluma around 10:00 AM and unload the furniture in Alameda around 2:00 PM. I will provide breakfast or lunch. If you can help me out at one or both ends please let me know.

Please message me.

Love and Light,

Cross )'(

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 1 reply

Highest Price for BM Tickets

2008-06-03T18:20:43Z

Every year for shits and giggles I search for the highest priced Burning Man Tickets. Usually these tickets are sold by scalpers and ticket resalers. This highest price for BM tickets I ever seen was for BM 2006 on e-Bay. Where a seller was selling $180 tickets for $500 each. The funny thing is that the seller was promoting the $180 tickets like they actually mean anything o the Playa. Also to note he would not give out any other ticket information (ticket ID number) and stated the fact that all tickets were sold out in July.

Going through some of these seller here are some horse shit I have seen:

1. BM Tickets are sold out.

2. "La" Playa.

3. "All Week Admission!"

4. Front row seats

5. "Freak Show"

6. Biggest Party

7. Rave

8. Burn Date: TBA

9. Burning Man in "Reno, NV".

10. Best seats in the house.

11. "Click Here" for seating chart.

Here is the highest price I have found so far:

http://www.vipticketcompany.com/production/598235/burning_man_tickets.html

Cross

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 2 replies

$250 BM ticket for sale

2008-06-03T13:52:47Z

I know this isn't where I'm supposed to post things for sale but it is BM related and it's an emergency. If you are interested pm me.

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 0 replies

A warm hello from another virgin

2008-06-02T18:22:37Z

I signed up a few days ago, and have read many posts. Lots of nice unofficial tips and such. My better half, Felise, and I will be going to Burning Man for the first time this year. We'll be driving from Fort Smith, Arkansas. We might have space for a rider if on our path. There will be four of us all together, and I have noticed several different ideas (not being in the know) on the "gift economy". If some of the long time burners could shed some light and maybe share what you do in the way of gifts it would be appreciated.

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 3 replies

Look like I'll be a virgin another year...

2008-06-02T17:48:07Z

I just can't afford it this year, I'm too broke and waited too long. So instead of getting mopey about it, I'm going to save up for 2009 and try and get to know other burners so by next year I have more money saved up, plus more experienced people to go with so I'm not going it alone and clueless :)

I live in the area(ish), so I'm planning on doing Playa Del Fuego in fall and spring. What are some other burn-like events or groups so I can really get aquainted with the people and culture, *something*, until next year? I have a friend who goes to BM when he can, but he's on the other side of the country and I don't get to see him much :/

Thanks so much for any and all help. Peace.

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 3 replies

Great Playa Ideas ~ for anybody

2008-06-02T14:52:41Z

great ideas for anybody to participate well at Bunringman.

1. Make some temporary art ~ it could be anything. Make it out of cardboard and string. Make it out of a old chair. paint it, write it, glue it, burn it, step on it, bike over it. Engage yourself in the experience of building something meaningful for you, and let it go.

2. Meet five people on the internet and then try to hook up with them on the playa. The experience may not be all positive, but it will make you grow more un afraid of strangers.

3. Sit down, anywhere, and listen. Just listen to it. The thumpa thumpa mixed with,, well you hear it for yourself.

4. Find a very tall structure to observe from, put some ear plugs in and try to describe the patterns you witness. Try to see what connects everything, what separates. What are the rythems of movement , design and character.

5. Burn something. Something valuable. Something symbolic. Something that needs to be burned.

6. tell someone how you really feel. Tell the truth, the whole truth. Tell them exactly how much you love or hate them. They may not feel better, but you will. (do yourself a favor and warn them first).

7. Do something that makes you vunerable.

8. Throw a fit of rage and scream and cry for as long as you physically can. (also a good idea to warn others first)

9. Do something that expresses thanks. any act of gratitude that is sincere and heartfelt will do.

10. Pull a prank. Become playfully expressive with others. The only way to build trust is exercise it.
The only way to exercise it, is to play with it.

Who's next?

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 6 replies

Virgins - who are you?

2008-06-02T05:15:38Z

Hi!

I just got recruited from the 2007 tribe. Never made it last year. THIS is my year! :) WEEE!

SO
1-who are you?
2-where are you from?
3-do you have a camp yet or are you contemplating any?
4-going with friends, partner, alone? looking for a carpool?

I'll start!
1-Shiva here - dancing designer, eclectic goddess of many hobbies and passions

2-Seattle

3-Contemplating Camp Happy, the Sustainable camp, Bloop (thus far).

4-I have friends here that I"ll probably catch a ride with. I'm currently SINGLE *wink wink*. By then, who knows if I still will be though, right?!

NEXT!!

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 98 replies

San Francisco Precompression

2008-06-01T07:45:31Z

I believe it will be the third weekend in June (probably Saturday). Details still being finalized but save the date, mark it on your calendar now.

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 19 replies

before burning man - parties!

2008-05-31T05:39:01Z

there will be a bunch of parties happening between now and Labor Day. many of them are fundraisers for various camps. others are local area/regional get-togethers. these can be a fun way to get yourself psyched, pick up fashion ideas, meet people, and get yourself into the swing of the Playa ahead of time.

(cue the commercial)

one of these parties is happening in Oakland this Saturday! even if you can't attend, you might enjoy the video flyer at the end of this posting.

here's the dope:

Camp Zoom!, a Black Rock City original, invites you to join us for a night of Dancing, Art and Fire...

Superheroes on Vacation
Saturday, May 31st, 9pm-2am
at the Oasis
135 12th Street, Oakland
21+

Performances by the Fire Arts Collective

Dance music by DJs:
NeonBunny (dish, camp Zoom!)
J.C. (KZSU, camp HOTD)
Lord Kook (FSLD, Poop Funnel camp)

Downtempo and Ambient Grooves by DJs:
Xan-X (Ambi-Sonic)
Pepe Mapache (Guadalajara, Mexico)
Mak (Hotel W's famous Friday Happy Hour)

Sculptures and Installations by Starboy & Cary; NeonBunny
Video by 2Xintheface; Starboy

$10 (pssst- only $5 in costumes)

Food available until midnight

view the flier here:
neonbunny.com/events.html

view the video flier here:
www.youtube.com/watch

posted in 2008 Burning Man Virgins - 0 replies