5 things to know before Dreamforce, the 170,000-person tech conference taking over San Francisco in November

Dreamforce is Salesforce's massive tech conference that practically shuts down the city of San Francisco for the better part of a week and it will begin soon: November 6 to 9.

The streets of San Francisco will be packed with the 170,000 attendees eager to learn about tech and enjoy an onslaught of music concerts, parties and other events.

To do this event right takes a bit of planning, and maybe even a bit of shopping.

With over 2,700 sessions, speakers like former First Lady Michelle Obama, a concert featuring Alicia Keys and Lenny Kravitz, and countless unofficial meetings to be had, it's a busy time and a doozy to plan for. You may have your tickets booked and a calender filled out, but are you really ready for Dreamforce?

Maybe not. But have no fear. We've compiled the five things you need to know before showing up to Dreamforce this year. Don't say we didn't warn you.