Street Shows

In Gainesville, street performance does not require a permit and can be done for tips at anytime! If you are interested in busking for tips, check out this quick guide we’ve put together to help you get started.

• Check out your intended spot! Is it directly in front of a business entrance? Will your performance disturb outdoor diners? Is another busker already set up close by? If so, please look for someplace new.

• We work hard to keep our downtown accessible to all! Any equipment down on the ground must stay out of the way. You can’t block the right of way, obstruct business entrances, impede foot traffic, or set up on the property of any business without their explicit permission. If you have questions or concerns, give Cultural Affairs a call (352 393 8543) and we’ll help determine the best move.

• Want tips? That’s fine! There’s nothing wrong with placing a tip jar or a sign with your Cash app or Venmo QR code out to collect tips, but you can’t solicit people walking by--and you can’t sell anything without a business license and a vendor permit.

• Be courteous with your volume. If you can be heard inside local businesses or if your volume prevents others from enjoying outdoor dining nearby, you are too loud.

• Don’t stay in the same spot for more than two hours. This gives other performers a chance to rotate through the best spots and prevents downtown industry workers from being subject to repetitive sets. If you want to busk in one of the Street Shows' designated Busk Stops at a time you aren't officially booked to perform there, be sure to check the Street Shows schedule first to be sure another performer isn't already booked there at the time you want to play.

• Are you looking to get in some plein air painting or bring a sketchbook out into the sun? Awesome! You’re good to go-–tag us at @gainesvillefla and #352arts when you’re done!

• Gainesville loves live performance! Remember that you represent not just yourself, but all buskers in Gainesville. Leave everyone with a good memory. Have fun, and be a good neighbor!

These guidelines help maintain the vibrant atmosphere of downtown while protecting the rights of pedestrians, business, and performers. Thanks!

Whose idea was this program?

Local musicians suggested the idea of a buskers guild and the Gainesville City Commission came up with the plan and approved a budget for the Street Shows pilot project.

Who runs the program?

Gainesville Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs drafted the guidelines and launched the program after researching similar initiatives in other cities, holding focus groups with performers, and surveying local business owner/managers. Cultural Affairs books the talent and manages the program budget.

How much are performers paid?

$100/hour plus the tips they make while performing.

Do performers get paid if they have to stop due to bad weather?

Yes, if a show is cancelled due to sudden bad weather, performers are still paid. If there is enough advanced notice to reschedule rather than cancel a Street Show, we reschedule.