Gregsta (et.al.)

The point you made about keeping up went unanswered. The key is to realize there are probably several conversations going on at the same time. Don't try to keep up with all of them, (at least not at first.) It's a nigh-on impossible task.

Just keep track of two or three people who are talking to each other, get the gist of the conversation, and join in. Ignore the rest. And keep an eye out for people addressing you personally (ala tip#4) and respond to them likewise... maybe starting your own multi-threaded conversation. LOL

See you there later.