Here’s the deal: busking (sidewalk entertaining for money) is protected as a form of free speech unless a local ordinance restricts that right.  In the downtown zone of Fargo, an ordinance exists and a permit is required if one intends to collect tips.

I have exactly one hour of experience busking for cash, and half the time I was wearing a mask.  The restrictions on sidewalk entertaining were lifted several years ago for a Downtowner event, so I juggled for an hour near Dempsey’s Pub.  I made exactly ten dollars, enjoyed myself for the most part, and maybe even made a little girl’s day.  Hey, $10 an hour is not bad when doing something you love.

Now that summer is nearly upon us, the urge to go pro as a juggler is overwhelming.  I sent a few emails, made a few calls, and ended up at City Hall paying a fee to obtain my Downtown Sidewalk Entertainer’s Permit.  My contact cheerfully marched me around the building from cubicle to cubicle, crossing every “t” and dotting each “i”.  After sitting for a smiling mug shot, my badge was printed and I was offered a tasty treat, “Sucker?” asked my host. The lolly was accepted and I was off on my bicycle to practice in Island Park.

So now I’ve got to actually get out there and do it.  Scary.  Although I practice my contact juggling in parks and have performed several times for small groups, I suspect that sidewalk performance is a horse of a different color.  Wish me luck!