The San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department (SFRPD) has just announced a new program to permit and schedule busking in Golden Gate Park. Busking is defined by SFRPD as “the activity of playing music in the street or another public place for voluntary donations.” This new program is a potential boon for musicians who have previously risked hefty fines for performing in the park.
Permits are available to any “individual or group who performs in a public area, for the purpose of providing public entertainment and self-expression,” according to the SFRPD website. Permits are free until March 1, 2023, and $73 per year afterward.
The new program is acoustic-only, meaning amplified sound and speakers over 24 watts are not allowed. SF Rec and Parks have identified 7 sites for permitted busking:
- Alvord Lake
- Conservatory Tunnel
- George Washington Tree
- Burns Statue
- 9th Avenue Bridge South
- Rose Garden South
- Crossover Underpass South.
For performers that require amplification, SFRPD will offer opportunities for modestly amplified music at the 14th Avenue East Meadow and along JFK Promenade starting September 23rd. These amplified areas will be part of a pop-up venues program called Music Mosey and will complement the free concert series already in place at the Golden Gate Bandshell.
“We are really excited about Busking in Golden Gate Park,” mentioned San Francisco Recreation and Park Department General Manager Phil Ginsburg. “This is a great way to enhance arts and culture for park visitors while giving visibility to emerging performers. There will be loads of talent in the park, with a bit of structure to keep all the other activities running smoothly.”
Anyone interested in busking in GG Park can learn more at SF Rec and Parks website.
Featured image: Brian Kndeneh on Unsplash