Has anyone ever been to a Steampunk ball or convention?

Hi, I'm going to the Lincoln Asylum this year for the first time and although I'm excited, I'm also a wee bit nervous. I'm getting my costume prepared but I'm have some questions about the convention and I was wondering if anyone could help me.
After the main convention there is a ball and, as I am going with my sister, I don't really have anyone to dance with :S So I was just wondering, can you still take part alone or do you need a partner or is there anything else you can do other than dancing (this sounds like a silly question I know, but us steampunk folk always find a way ;P)
Also, does anyone have any tips on going to a convention like this?

Anyway, thank you in advance! Is anyone else going this year?
Wish me luck and thanks again! :)