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Saturday May 03, 2008

Maker Faire Tips

We are just back from another great Maker Faire (photos to be posted next week, I'm too tired now). If you are planning to go tomorrow (and if you live in the Bay Area and you enjoy making things, then you really should), then as a three year veteran, let me give you some tips.

Try to arrive as soon as it opens. The Faire is getting bigger every year. We were there about thirty minutes after it started and we had to walk from the far side of the huge car park.
One of the first halls you go into is jam packed with things you can buy. I suggest spending some time here, and buying stuff. If you spend over $50.00, you can take your recipt over to another counter and get a free t-shirt. We also got a free tote bag. I wasn't sure if every order got one, or you had to spend >$50.00. Either way, I strongly suggest bringing an empty tote bag for all the stuff you are going to make, and all the handouts that you are going to collect.
The service in the cafeteria is appalling. I recommend eating lunch about 11:30am and/or just getting a sandwich or salad from the glass containers against one wall. If you try to eat after midday, your wait will feel like you're in line for one of the more popular Disney rides. There were also more "fast food" stands around the fairgrounds this year, so it's less of a problem. It is nice to sit down in the cafeteria though.
There are lots of special things happening during the day. Be sure to plan ahead and read the schedule of events. It'll will avoid any disappointments.

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