Getting Ready for TEDx? Here’s What You Need to Know

With just one day to go before TEDxMidAtlantic 2011, we’re putting the final preparations in place for what’s shaping up to be a day to remember. Because we’re aiming to completely fill the day with amazing moments, we also need you to be prepared. Here’s what you need to know:

Come Rested

It’s going to be a packed day from sunrise to sunset with only a couple breaks for coffee and lunch. Youʼll be sorry if you miss something because you were too tired to stay focused or awake. Let the day wash over you and take it all in. You’ll be glad you did. Bring a pen and take some notes. See what happens.

Dress Comfortable

Like we said, it’s a long day. Casual attire is absolutely appropriate and encouraged.

The Theater Will be Completely Full

Pretend it’s a Southwest flight. Please arrive early to secure a seat and also be sure to fill in every last seat. Make lots of friends. Sit in a few different places. You will find that your fellow TEDx peers are wonderful people. Don’t be shy, introduce yourself!

Leave Your Computer in the Car

We know this is a tough one. But for the sake of the live audience (and the video team that will be recording TEDxMidAtlantic), we ask that you not use your computers, cell phones, cameras, recording devices, etc. in the auditorium unless you are sitting in the balcony. The clicking of computer keys and glow from your phone is not pleasant to other attendees. If you do wish to Tweet an amazing insight at some point during the day, turn down the brightness of your phone and use the event hashtag: #TEDxMid.

Your Arrival on October 29 – Don’t Print a Ticket

You must check in with registration upon arrival and retrieve your name badge (no printed tickets required, we already have your name!). You cannot give someone else your ticket, since we won’t have a badge for them.

TEDxMidAtlantic is designed as an all-day experience, so plan to stay all day. Please plan to arrive as early as 7:30AM. The closest Metro station is Gallery Place – Chinatown. Everyone should be in their seats at 8:30AM. The program will begin at 8:45AM, and because we are filming, no one will be admitted into the theater after 8:55AM; viewing will be restricted to a video feed in the lobby until the next break at 10:30AM.

This day is about exploration – meeting new people, hearing new ideas, experiencing the unexpected. There will be elements that will move you, make you think, bring you to tears, give you chills, make you laugh, and perhaps even offend you. Youʼll love some of it, and might hate some of it. But to have any reaction, youʼve first got to show up on time. Transportation and parking details can be found here.

Breakfast, Lunch and Coffee

If you arrive early enough, you will have time to grab some fruit and coffee before TEDxMidAtlantic begins promptly at 8:45am. We will have two coffee and tea breaks throughout the day, along with a longer break for lunch, which is being provided thanks to the gracious TEDxMidAtlantic sponsors.

TEDxMidAtlantic Schedule on October 29

8:45am Introduction
9:00am Session 1
10:30am Coffee Break
11:30am Session 2
1:15pm Lunch
2:30pm Session 3
4:00pm Coffee Break
4:45pm Session 4
6:30pm Closing Remarks
6:40pm TEDxMidAtlantic Reception

Tell Your Friends About the Live Stream!

Know people who are interested in TEDxMidAtlantic 2011 but can’t make the event? Tell them to tune in to our free live stream at: http://tedxmidatlantic.com/live

Any Questions? Ask Us!

If you need something, just ask us. Our staff and volunteers will be easy to spot with TEDxMidAtlantic t-shirts and are here to help. We’re also reachable via e-mail.