Frostburn

A: It might sound cliché, but expect the unexpected! What happens to you at a burn depends largely on what you bring to the event. Unlike your typical festival, the features of a burn are defined by its attendees, which is why we call ourselves "participants." The burner community has a "NO SPECTATORS" rule, which means that, in a nutshell, if you come to the event expecting to be entertained, you will probably be disappointed. At a burn, you are the entertainer! You are the artist! You are the performer! If you don't have something to offer to the event, you arguably shouldn't be there. Bring an open mind, a willingness to try something new, and a desire to "share the warmth" with some of the most creative people on the planet!

Q: I've been to Burning Man plenty of times. Other than Frostburn's winter theme, what are the major cultural, legal or artistic differences?

A: Frostburn was envisioned to give artists the opportunity to experiment with materials and themes that simply aren't feasible in the desert or during the warmer months. We do support the same Ten Principles as Burning Man and other regional burns, so expect our culture to be similar. As at Burning Man, all Frostburn participants are expected to obey all applicable laws and event regulations. Campground regulations must also be followed.

Q: Who's running this thing?

A: This is an all-volunteer, community sponsored event. The Pittsburgh-area burner community, lead by a core group we call the Frostburn Planning Team, has rented or donated the infrastructure to provide the basic framework. However, as Frostburn community members, all participants are expected to contribute to the event's success by donating time, money and effort, and honoring our Ten Principles.

Q: What more can you tell me about the indoor, "warehouse-like" camping space?

A: The indoor space looks like a barn but is more like a modern warehouse. It has post and beam construction for wide open spaces and a concrete floor. Three of the four walls are solid, permanent construction; the fourth wall is seasonal and made of thick plastic over a wooden frame. The camping space will be located as far from the temporary wall as possible. We plan to further partition the camping area and keep it warm (above freezing) with a heating system that we are designing. Do not expect luxury accommodations, but do expect a much better situation than you'd face if you had to camp outdoors!

Q: I can only attend Frostburn one day. Is a per-day rate available?

A: No, prices are the same regardless of how many days you participate. To minimize your cost, you may purchase your admission at the discount ratebefore February 1, 2008.

Q: I see that each admission purchased before February includes forty square feet (5'x8') of camping space. Where did you come up with that allotment? Can people with bigger tents combine their space? How will that work?

A: The allotment is based on our research that most two-person tents measure less than 5'x8' and require less than 40 square feet of space (without anchors, which won't be necessary because we'll be indoors). If two people purchase tickets before February, they can combine their space for a total of 80 square feet. We will assume that you want a space 8'x10', but if you'd like different dimensions, just let us know in advance. Three people would have 120 square feet combined (8'x15' unless otherwise specified), etc. You can also purchase additional space before February, if your combined allotment is still not enough. However, we strongly encourage you to think small and plan for minimal use of your tent. The indoor camping space is reserved for private activities—group activities like parties, performances and socializing are not permitted in the heated indoor space.

Q: What happens if the weather is really bad?

A: If the weather is so bad that the Frostburn organizers will not be able to perform their duties, then the event will be canceled and all purchases will be refunded. However, we suggest that you prepare for the worst. This is a winter event, after all, and we're expecting adversity from the elements. Try to capitalize on whatever mother nature sends our way (remember the old saying: when life gives you lemons, make lemonade)! We will only cancel the event if it is impossible not to.

Q: Are there restrooms? Showers?

A: The campground's restroom and shower facilities are already closed for winter and will not be open during our event. Porta-potties will be provided for our use. If you would like to take a shower at Frostburn, you'll have to bring the necessary equipment (including heat and water) yourself.

Q: If I camp indoors, where can I cook? Where can I eat?

A: For safety, you will not be able to cook within the indoor camping area. Cooking will be possible just outside of the building, though, and you can also cook over a campfire! There are no restrictions on where you can eat, but if you eat in front of anyone else, be sure you have enough to share!

Q: Is alcohol permitted?

A: Certainly! What would a burn be without booze? Remember, though, that the legal drinking age in Pennsylvania is twenty-one (21) years. You are responsible for keeping any alcohol you bring out of the hands (and bellies) of minors.

Q: Will there be amplified sound? 24/7? Is there a quiet area?

A: Amplified sound is permitted at the event. Amplified sound late at night will be limited to remote areas to avoid complaints from neighbors and campground residents. The indoor camping area is not remote, and because it is reserved for private activities, theme camps such as "dance camps" are not permitted in this area. However, there is no designated "quiet area," so bring earplugs or an RV if you're concerned about quiet time. Any sound camp that creates a disturbance for our neighbors may be relocated. As a last resort, we'll have no choice but to shut down repeat offenders.

Q: What if there is no snow?

A: Then we can't play in it.

Q: Is there electricity in the indoor camping space?

A: Sorry, but electricity in the barn/warehouse will not be available for use by campers. You're welcome to reserve an outdoor campsite with electrical hookup, while spaces are available.

Q: Can I park near the camping area if I sleep in my car?

A: Yes, but remember that once a vehicle is removed from the event area, it may not reenter unless it is an approved Mutant Vehicle (art car) leaving to refuel.

Q: Am I allowed to camp in an RV? Are electric campsites available and/or required for RV camping?

A: Yes, you're welcome to camp in an RV! Use of an electric campsite is optional (and subject to availability). If you would like a site with electricity, you should purchase a reservation using our website. If you do not want electricity, there is no additional fee! Please note that electricity is the only type of hookup available. The campground's water and sewer systems are filled with anti-freeze for the winter and therefore cannot be used.

Q: If I camp indoors, where can I cook? Where can I eat?

A: You can cook anywhere that you will not pose a health or safety hazard (including, but not limited to, oxygen depletion, pollution or unwanted fire). There are no restrictions on where you can eat, but if you eat in front of anyone else, be sure you have enough to share!

Q: Can we have our own fires? Where? How big? Will firewood be available?

A: Yes! Campfires are to be burned in the campground's many fire rings. Larger fires may be erected on grassy areas but must not be constructed on paved roadways and parking areas. Be sure to keep your fire a safe distance from people, trees and other objects. All firewood must be purchased through us due to a Pennsylvania quarantine to deter the spread of the Emerald Ash Borer (an invasive pest that is destroying hardwoods in our area). We have arranged for on-site delivery with the campground's regular vendor. You may purchase your firewood in bulk (truckload) quantities before February (recommended), or at the event for a high premium. Note that lumber and other building materials are not included in the quarantine, only firewood.

Q: Will there be a main/central stage for performances?

A: We haven't decided; however, instead of expecting a main stage, you would better serve the community by creating a theme camp around your performance, shifting the focus from a spectator event to a participatory experience.

Q: Can I bring my own burn barrel?

A: Absolutely! We'd love to see decorative burn barrels make an appearance at the event.

Q: Are fireworks permitted? How about flamethrowers?

Fireworks are prohibited by campground regulations and are illegal in Pennsylvania. There are no event or campground regulations prohibiting the use of flamethrowers or other fire-based devices for artistic purposes. Keep in mind that you alone are completely responsible for the safe operation, storage and installation of your dangerous art projects and devices. As in any community, Frostburn participants must obey all local, state and federal laws, including laws applicable to materials and devices used in your art projects. If you have any questions, seek qualified legal counsel.

Q: Will there be nudity?

A: If you're crazy enough to strip down in the middle of February, then we'll have a zone for you. As long as you're not visible to neighbors or passers-by, there shouldn't be a problem. There's even talk of a Polar Bear Club swim in the creek (stream) along the southern edge of the campground!

Q: Can I bring my dog? Cat? Hamster?

A: Sorry, but no. Frostburn does not have adequate facilities to provide your pet with a safe, comfortable environment. Space is limited, participants might have allergies or legitimate concerns for their safety, and animal waste poses a health hazard. Although most people consider themselves responsible pet owners/keepers, this is an event for humans, not for other animals. Leave your pets at home.

Q: Is vending permitted? Will there be food and drink sales?

A: No. All vending, advertising and other commercial activity is prohibited at Frostburn. Once participants have reached the event, the only thing they are permitted to purchase is firewood, from us, due to the Emerald Ash Borer firewood quarantine and our obligation to protect the environment. Please support our gift economy by sharing, not selling. Violators will be ejected without refund.

Q: Are there any age restrictions? Any discounts for children or seniors?

A: Although participants of any age are welcome at Frostburn, please use the utmost discretion before you decide to bring children to the event: "radical self-expression" means that somebody might choose to express themselves in a way that your offspring might not be ready to confront! Campground regulations specify that minors are not permitted without a parent or legal (court-appointed) guardian (parental consent to attend is not enough). Do not let your child out of your sight; you alone are responsible for you child's safety and behavior at all times! Sorry, but there are no age-based discounts.

Q: What forms of art are welcome or encouraged?

A: All works of art are welcome at Frostburn, but participants tend to most appreciate interactive items: those that are animated or can be climbed, drawn upon or moved. You do not have to be an established artist; everyone at a burn is encouraged to express themselves artistically—and radically, at that! If you're an experienced artist, try a medium that you've never used before. Don't be afraid of failure; the important thing is that you try. Unlike other burns, Frostburn 2008 does not have an abstract "art theme." If you need inspiration, think about such concepts as communal warmth, winter adversity or the juxtaposition of hot and cold. Participants will gather around installations that provide comfort and protection from the elements!

Q: I'm an established artist and would like to showcase some of my work. What can I expect?

A: Although Frostburn provides the exhibit space, it is up to each participant to transport, erect, protect, disassemble (or burn) and remove his or her art. In addition to your project, bring whatever equipment and supplies you will need, including camping and survival gear. Protect your installation from accidental damage by creating a perimeter (if necessary) and lighting it with lights or glowsticks at night. Although other participants are usually eager to lend a helping hand, be prepared to do all of this yourself, or bring your own crew that you can count on for support.

Q: Will security be present?

A: Non-confrontational community mediators called "Rangers" will be in attendance, to help resolve disputes and assist participants with health and safety issues. In addition to Rangers, Frostburn and campground staff can be approached with any concerns about public safety and security. Event staff reserves the right to evict anyone who violates regulations or poses a threat to our participants or venue. Before calling the police (yes, most cell phones will work at our venue), please try to resolve problems yourself or with our help, unless there is an emergency.

Q: How can I help?

A: Well, how do you want to help? Frostburn is an all-volunteer, community-sponsored event, so we can use pretty much any assistance you'd like to provide. To make a big impact, bring an art project, art car, theme camp, performance or seminar that encourages others to interact and participate. We need greeters to welcome people to the event, a DPW crew to help with set-up and tear-down, experienced EMTs, Rangers and Fire Safety personnel, gophers and folks to help with logistical matters. Want to contribute in another way? Just let us know!

Q: May I trade a service or something tangible in exchange for admission?

A: Sorry, but there's no way we could afford to host this year's event without everyone's financial commitment. Each and every person involved must purchase his or her own admission, regardless of other contributions. Quite frankly, it would help a lot if you could contribute even more than your admission price... so please donate as much time, money and effort to Frostburn as your heart, schedule and pocket can afford!

Q: Can I camp a day earlier or later than the event?

A: The campground will be open to Frostburn participants on Friday, February 15, 2008 and will remain open through Monday, February 18, 2008. Only event organizers will have access to the venue outside of those dates. If you would like more time at the campground, you'll have to commit to helping us with set up and/or tear down. We welcome and appreciate your assistance, but can't promise much of a camping experience during that time!

Q: I would like to create a theme camp, but I am afraid of duplicating someone else's idea. How can I be sure not to step on someone else's toes?

A: Firstly, don't worry too much about it! This isn't the senior prom, where everyone has to show up in a different gown. What's important is that you express yourself at the event, even if someone else feels the same way. That said, you can follow the Art, Theme Camps and Events links on our website to see what others are planning, and please submit any plans of your own. Feel free to collaborate with like-minded others, to create a project that is greater than the sum of its parts!

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