- March 27, 2024
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Winter Park City Commissioners unanimously passed an ordinance during their Dec. 14 meeting that bans street performers from the sidewalks of Park Avenue, New England Avenue, the Winter Park Farmers Market and the SunRail station.
But performers won’t have to skip town just yet to find another public stage. The new law also establishes designated performance zones, which include Central Park, the lawn outside City Hall, a corner lot adjacent to the Farmers Market and a small park at the corner of Park and Whipple avenues.
The ordinance stemmed from complaints from restaurants about performers blocking sidewalks and driving away customers.
Giving performers a place to go away from the restaurants is a win for everyone, Mayor Steve Leary said.
“We’re creating ample opportunity across the street, so people right in the park still have the opportunity for free speech that they need in our downtown, which we all support,” Leary said.
“I think this is a nice solution.”
The new ordinance pertains to far more than just singers and musicians, but all forms of expression, including acting, juggling, dancing and any visual artistry.