Beijing Barcamp Set for Aug 18; Dinner Will Be Served (Separately)

Beijing's unstructured gathering of earnest young people – Barcamp Beijing – returns August 18 for another installment of talks about ideas by the people who show up earliest to put their name on the board.

Expect a lot of technology topics, thoughts on how mobile is going to change the world, and a few expatriates who want to talk about their experiences being expatriates in China. Each talk lasts 10 minutes, so it's a bit like speed-dating for ideas. Registration, attendance, participation, even some refreshments, are all free.

For those unfamiliar with Barcamp, think of it as a TEDx event without the structure, but with the question and answer afterwards. There is no preset schedule, and speakers wishing to present should arrive early to sign up. The August 18 event will be held at the same place the May Barcamp event was held, the (in)conveniently located Microsoft Research Asia office in Haidian.

Once the world is saved and the earnestness ebbs comes the best part: dinner! FatFace Dining, which was behind Foodcamp at a March Barcamp event, is holding a separate, technically non-affiliated event at Moishe House to present the Post-Barcamp Dinner Bash, where the conversations can continue. Registration for the dinner can be done online to receive a special discounted price (RMB 108), or those living paycheck to paycheck can pay RMB 150 at the door, but only after reserving in advance.

Photo: the Beijinger