How can a name like, "The Burning Man Project," not capture your attention? Heck it got mine instantly and it leaves me more and more puzzled the further I go. If you want a simple explanation on how the festival began and bizarre events to take place in Black Rock Desert, NV this August 29 - September 5, you better stick to Lonely Planet's snippet. I assure you, once you enter the world of the burning man on their own web site curiosity will get the best of you and you'll be flipping through you phone to find someone who's just as down to do it as you are. (I'm seriously contemplating this as I write.)

In short, the Burning Man is an annual experiment in temporary community dedicated to radical self-expression and radical self-reliance. This year's theme is PSYCHE. Though it may seem easy at first, they suggest reading their survival tips, bringing some of your own entertainment, taking part in several of the wacky activities, and of course making new friends if you plan to camp in the desert community full festival length. Count on a couple of nudist activities or count yourself out. The big payoff is in the end when everything gets burned, including the man. Sounds incredibly far out.

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