One night each month is "CopyNight", when advocates of protectint the public interest in copyright law gather together to meet, socialize, discuss issues, and build social capital. If you want to host an event in your area, email info@copynight.org and we'll add you to our site.

There are a few ways we will support you:

• Space on CopyNight.org to publicize your event
• Help setting up and hosting group email lists and discussion groups
• Email notices and RSS feeds to remind people about upcoming events
• Sticker designs, table tents and talking points, all available on-line (plus more schwag coming soon!)
• A place in a growing network of copyfighters

What are the guidelines for CopyNight?

There's no cost to using the CopyNight name. All we ask is that each chapter follow a few guides to make it a successful sibling to other CopyNight chapters:

• It has to be free - no admission and no membership dues. Make it as inclusive as possible.
• CopyNight can't be "presented by" any other group. Other groups are welcome to co-host and support the event. In other words, please say "CopyNight and the Anytown Free Culture Club invite you to..." rather than "The Anytown Free Culture Club presents CopyNight."
• While mixing cocktails and copyright, always drink responsibly.

Hints for a successful CopyNight

• Try to get a couple friends to co-host. If you're starting from scratch, who knows what attendance will be like at the beginning? Having friends around will ensure that even a new CopyNight will be fun.
• We recommend a cheap bar. CopyNight should be inclusive and inviting. Don't let price get in the way. Ideally, the bar will serve pitchers - encouraging members to buy a round for their new friends and increasing the good community feel.
• Take pictures! If you've got a digital camera, snap some photos of your local CopyNight, email them to us, and we'll put them on the website.
• Buy the first pitcher if you can afford it. It makes people feel welcome when they arrive - and encourages them to return the favor to you and other members.
• Pay special attention to any newcomers - you already know your friends, and know they will return; the host's goal is to draw new friends into the circle.
• Consider all-ages venues. If you pick a location that allows under-21 patrons, more students will be able to get involved with your CopyNight.
• Make your CopyNight easy to identify. We've got files for CopyNight name tags, table tents, and a guest book to help people find the CopyNight in a crowded bar.
• Invite local free culture organizations. We've found that people prefer unstructured socialization to guest speakers, but we do reach out through other organizations to let them know that CopyNight is a good source for interesting people who care about free culture. Our happy hour shouldn't be closed to any groups - we create an open space, where others can successfully network - and their events and activities help feed fuel to our discussions and strengthen the free culture movement.

That's it! If you have questions about anything here, please contact us at info@copynight.org.