BIL is the ad hoc counterpart to the TED conference. Unlike TED, anyone can attend BIL, and it is cheap enough that most people can afford it. A weekend at BIL will probably cost less than a day at Disneyland.

Like TED, there are speakers spreading interesting, useful, and cutting edge ideas. But unlike TED, anyone is welcome to speak. Simply submit your talk ahead of time, or sign up for an open slot while you are there. There will be several stages and speakers talking simultaneously.

Tons of incredibly interesting and brilliant people attend BIL, and most of them are open to chatting with any other BIL attendee about any topic that suits their fancy. There will also be parties, cocktail hours, dances, or any other social activity that you choose to make happen.

Another key distinction about BIL is that it is run by its attendees. There are a few dedicated volunteers that could loosely be described as being in charge. (And we’re all grateful for their hard work.) But everyone coming is expected to chip in in whatever way they see fit. If you see something that you think ought to be done, do it. But if you’re more comfortable sitting back and observing, that’s okay too.