Applications for the 2026 Busking Program will be accepted starting in the spring. Please stay tuned for more information.
An evolution of the former Street Performers Program, the Busking Program works together with the Emerging Artist Program to animate downtown Barrie. This program provides the opportunity for performing artists of all ages and stages an opportunity to perform for tips in a casual manner.
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.
2025 Busking Zones
Permit holders could busk at the designated Busking Zones, when not being used for events or by participants in the Emerging Artist Program:
- Dunlop Street between Maple and Mulcaster (you must get permission from business owners if performing in front of a business)
- Meridian Place
- The walking path at Heritage Park
- The walking path between Heritage Park and the Marina in north Centennial Park
Permit holders could request permission to busk at events by contacting event organizers directly.
Buskers could save the Busking Permit to their phones and/or print a copy. Buskers needed a copy of their permit easily available while busking so that By-law Enforcement and/or Police officers could see it if requested.
The 2025 Busking Program Guide remains available for reference.