Street performing — or busking — is one of the oldest and most authentic forms of live entertainment. It’s bold, unpredictable, and bursting with personality. There’s no stage, no spotlight… just a talented performer, a patch of pavement, and a crowd waiting to be amazed.

These artists are a rare breed. They roam the world in search of the perfect "pitch" — a little corner of the street where they can turn nothing into something unforgettable. With charisma and craft, they draw in curious passersby, transform them into an audience, and deliver a show that’s often hilarious, heart-stopping, or downright mind-blowing — all without a ticket price.

And when it’s over?

They pass the hat.

Not because they have to — but because they’ve earned it. A great busker creates a moment of real connection. A shared laugh. A collective gasp. That’s what inspires people to drop bills in the hat. It’s entertainment in its purest form — raw, interactive, and honest.

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So who are buskers?

They’re jugglers, acrobats, magicians, mimes, dancers, musicians, living statues, clowns, comedians, sword swallowers, fire breathers, puppeteers — and artists that don’t fit into any box at all.

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No Two Shows Are Ever the Same

A great street performer reads the crowd, feeds off their energy, and tailors each show to the moment. That’s what makes street performing so magical: it’s never rehearsed, never repeated, and never forgotten.

All over the world. Depending on their motivation, street performers travel the globe, "following the sun" with their impromptu performances. Performers at CentreFest have come from Canada, Spain, Australia, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, America, Mexico, Germany and many more.
Even Red Deer! (Think: Spandy Andy)

What don’t they do? From juggling, acrobatics, fire breathing, comedy and so much more. The list is way too long to print here! Check out the Gallery Page and see amazing pictures of our artists from past years doing what they do best!

Downtown Red Deer on Ross Street

July 26-27, 2025

Noon - 6:00 PM

Entry is by donation! It’s up to you how much you pay. Street performers earn their living by “passing the hat”. So when you enjoy their performance, let them know with your toonies and bills. Change is available at the Change Exchange tent.

Street performers’ “pitches”, Circus World, Water World, Street Market, food vendors, and roving entertainment.

Portable washrooms are available on site. There’s also a ‘Change Exchange’ tent if you require change to "put in the hats”.

Emergency first-aid services are available.

Public street parking is available all around the site and is FREE on Saturdays and Sundays. 

Before you head downtown for all the fun, here are a few helpful tips to make your CentreFest experience comfortable, safe, and unforgettable:

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☀️ Dress for the Festival

Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and comfy footwear are always in fashion at CentreFest! The festival takes place on downtown asphalt — which means it can get hot. Bring a folding chair if you’d like to relax between shows!

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🐾 Leave Pets at Home

We love furry friends — but hot concrete is no place for paws. Please keep pets cool and safe at home while you enjoy the festivities.

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🚲 Walk, Don’t Ride

Bicycles must be walked, and skateboards carried while you're on festival grounds. Let’s keep it safe for everyone in the crowd!

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📵 Don’t Be That Person

If your phone rings during a show… let’s just say, the performer will notice. Turn your ringer off and enjoy the moment — your group chat can wait.

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💸 Entrance is Free — But the Hat Gets Passed!

CentreFest is open to all and fully wheelchair accessible. While admission is free, our shows follow the “pass the hat” tradition — so bring some Toonies and bills to support the amazing artists. Change is available on-site!

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💧 Stay Hydrated

Red Deer summers can be hot and dry! Stay cool by drinking plenty of water. Bring a refillable bottle (we’ve got refill stations by donation), or grab a souvenir bottle at Water World on-site.

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🚭 Respect Your Festival Family

Please avoid smoking in crowded areas — and always be courteous to fellow festivalgoers.

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🛍️ Don’t Block the Business Beat

Let’s keep Red Deer vibrant! Please avoid blocking entrances to downtown shops and restaurants so everyone can enjoy the local vibe.

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🎭 Keep Your Eyes Open!

Our roving performers pop up where you least expect them — so keep an eye out for surprise moments of magic throughout the grounds!

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🎤 Buskers by Invitation Only

CentreFest is a curated festival, so all performers are scheduled in advance. Interested in performing in the future? We’d love to hear from you — email us at info@centrefest.ca.