(Barrie, ON) – The City of Barrie is accepting applications for the 2025 Busking Program, which provides artists of all ages an opportunity to show off their talent and entertain visitors to the downtown and waterfront. The program works together with the Emerging Artist Program to animate downtown Barrie.
Busking provides an opportunity for emerging and established artists to showcase their work and creates opportunities for residents and visitors to connect with and appreciate local talent.
Permit holders may busk at these designated busking zones, when not being used for events:
- Dunlop Street between Maple Avenue and Mulcaster Street with permission from business owners if performing in front of a business
- Meridian Place
- Beside the walking path at Heritage Park
- Beside the walking path between Heritage Park and the Marina in north Centennial Park
- Permit holders may request permission to busk at events by contacting event organizers directly or by emailing events@barrie.ca for a list of City events
Busker permits are required for all performances happening on City property where the performer is accepting tips from the public. Applying for and obtaining a permit is free and any performing artists are welcome to apply. Performances involving fire or sharp objects are not permitted.
Performers will need the following to apply for a busking permit:
- full contact information
- information on the performance type (i.e. music, poetry, theatre, magic, juggling, contortion)
- certificate of insurance for $2 million liability naming the Corporation of the City of Barrie as additional insured (if you do not already have insurance, you can purchase it through one of the City’s third-party providers)
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis, into the fall season. To learn more about the program and apply, visit barrie.ca/busking.
