For those of you who do not know what burning man is, it is a MASSIVE art festival that takes place in the Nevada dessert.

It is a culture of people looking to express themselves in the most radical ways in art, style, and music within an encouraged 10 principles outlined by the group.

The burnings are likened to that of a high school bonfire on steroids-huge art structures set ablaze. For those who can’t make the long trip to Nevada, a local alternative will be offered here in October at the La Jolla Indian Campground.

Unlike the dryer parched dessert this local festival will not have burning due to the area’s highly flammable environment.

In some ways I am reminded of a modern day hippy movement after looking into the festival, and in a way it is, but the focus is more on the art. Like many life experiences, participation is highly encouraged at this event, hence the name YOUtopia.

The event will feature outrageous and engaging works of art from many San Diego artitst, DJs, performances, light show, fire dancers, and even your own works of art to showcase if you so chose.

About 3,000 people are expected to come out to the campground this year. This will be the seventh year for the event. What stands out about this event is there will be NO VENDORS! Items will be free or gifts. No one will be selling items. Only ice and coffee are sold on site. All the works of art will be accepted from an unconditional gifting system which is again part of the principles of burning man: #3 gifting.

The festival is very expressive both artistically, visually, and well lets just say bodily as in you may see Adam and Eve walking around which ties into principle #4 self expression.

If you are indeed an artist, one who is an admirer of art, or an adventurer, just as the theme this year says, “Create your own adventure,” you’re bound to find something colorful. Youtopia is not a La Jolla Indian Reservation sponsored event, only a venue for the festival.

The San Diego Collaborative Arts Project, a nonprofit company, raises the money for the event and is responsible for giving out $80,000 in art grants to display at Youtopia.

The event will begin Thursday, October 13 and will go through Sunday, October 16. Basic tickets have already sold out but other options are available as well as tickets for low income. More information can be found online at: sdyoutopia.com