The Minnesota Police Pipe Band offers piping and drumming instruction free of charge to anyone who wants to learn - people of all backgrounds and levels of experience are welcome to join us. The band also accepts new members via audition.
Part of our mission is introducing a broad range of people to the instruments we love, which boast a rich cultural heritage. Instruction is provided for the bass, snare, and tenor drums, and for the Great Highland bagpipe. Instruction in the art of the Drum Major is also available, and we encourage anyone who may be interested to volunteer as Color Guard.
FREE INSTRUCTION PROGRAMS
Learn more about how you can become a part of the band:
FAQs
When is Barn FOTA?
The Barn Festival is always the fourth full weekend in September.
What are the festival hours?
Saturday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Is there an admission charge?
No, Barn FOTA is free!
Is there a charge for parking?
Parking is $5.00 for FOTA lots. Residents and other organizations may charge different amounts.
Where do I park?
Follow the signs off Route 12 for authorized FOTA parking.
May I drive on Main Street in Remsen during the Festival?
No, Main Street is closed from the Prospect Street intersection to the northernmost driveway of Remsen Central School according to the following schedule:
Friday
9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Open for southbound traffic only
Saturday
7:00 AM – 9:00 AM Open for southbound traffic only
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Road closed
6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Open for northbound traffic only
Sunday
7:00 AM – 9:00 AM Open for southbound traffic only
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Road closed
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM Open for northbound traffic only
Is the Festival open in the rain?
Yes, rainy days are great shopping days!
Can I bring my dog?
No pets are allowed.
Is there a bus to the parking lot?
Yes, there is a bus to the parking lot on the corner of Route 12 and Steuben Street (at Shufelt's).
Where is the most convenient parking?
The authorized FOTA parking lot at Remsen Central School. This is an all paved lot with traffic control by the fire department. This lot is located at the North entrance to the Festival.
Are the show and parking lot handicapped accessible?
Yes, Main Street is accessible and handicapped parking can be found at the Train Depot.
How do I apply to become a vendor?
You may download a Jury Application from the Exhibitor Info page. This application must meet the January 15 deadline to be considered for the next festival.
What is the GymanfaGanu?
The Gymnanfa is the annual Welsh hymn sing. It is held on Sunday at 2:30 PM at the Stone Meeting House on Prospect Street. Bus transportation is available for those unable to walk up the hill to the Meeting House.
Is there lodging near the Festival?
Yes, click here for a list.
What is the weather usually like during the festival?
Weather in upstate NY can vary from day to day and year to year. We suggest you check the weather prior to leaving for the Festival.
What does FOTA stand for?
Festival of the Arts
Is there entertainment at FOTA?
Yes, on Saturday and Sunday there are entertainers strolling on the street and performing at the Remsen Arts Center stage or The Soda Fountain. Check our schedule of events located here, which is updated as the festival approaches each year.
Is Barn FOTA being held in 2020?
No, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, no live Barn FOTA event is being held in Remsen during 2020. A virtual event was hosted September 25-28 for online shopping.