I'm going to go to my first IDPA shoot this Wednesday.  At first I wanted to just come and watch and see how it goes but I'm thinking about coming prepared to shoot just in case I want to.  I have already geared myself to realize that I probably will be outshot by most of the folks there.  Any advice on what I can expect, what equipment I will need, etc would be appreciated.  

Take your stuff, you'll end up shooting anyway. I ended up agreeing to shoot when Mike Dalton, IDPA Master, instructor and hell of a nice guy offered to shoot with me.

You'll find people with all skill levels shooting and the only way to truly embarrass yourself is to break the safety rules.

You'll need a handgun (!), holster, something to conceal them (jacket, big shirt, vest,) and should have at least two Mag holders. There are some rules as to what you can carry but they will probably be fairly lax for your first shoot. Think basic, not IPSC.

Here's the National site:
http://www.idpa.com/index.htm

You're gonna have fun and you won't come in last. It's a great learning experience.