Program Special events

From focused workshops to lively evenings to cheering on our homegrown stars of the TEDYou stage, there's always something going on at TEDActive. Participate in all the fun times we've got planned … or start your own. Apply now »

Pre-conference excursions

The day before the conference begins, attendees can catch these specially organized TEDActive tours of the highlights of Palm Springs. Past tours included visits to iconic mid-century homes, tours of the San Gorgonio wind farm and trips to the secluded Noah Purifoy art site in the Joshua Tree desert.

Workshops

Delve into the TEDActive experience with one of our project-centered workshops. Ranging in topic from social media to education to the creative process and more, these workshops will be headed by leaders in each field. Learn from your fellow attendees, past TED speakers and more. Most importantly, get your creative juices flowing and your hands dirty.

TEDYou

Have you always dreamed of giving a TEDTalk? This is your chance. Think of a topic you know inside and out that would excite the TED-ED audience. (Learn more about what we’re looking for in TED-ED talks.)Write a proposal and apply to be a TEDYou speaker. (Don't worry -- if the spotlight's not for you, you can just sit back and enjoy being in the audience.) Each year there are incredible speakers ... See Sebastian Wernicke's and Jim Fallon's TEDYou talks on TED.com.

Evening events and parties

After a day packed with new ideas, intensive workshops and inspiring conversation breaks, our evening soirees are a welcome, relaxing end to the day. Past events have had our attendees sampling organic local cuisine under the stars in an isolated desert canyon, moving to Bollywood rhythms while snacking on roti and curry, and rocking out during live-backed karaoke. Our all-star TEDActive house band sets the mood and shares the stage with some very special guests. These evenings are a great way to mingle, make new friends and create lifelong memories.