How To Make Money Performing on the Street

If your talent is even remotely similar to anyone else’s in your area, add in some sort of gimmick. If you play an instrument, pick an uncommon style of music. If you juggle, juggle while yodeling.

Scope out a good place to perform—ideally, an area with a lot of foot traffic where cops won’t bother you.

Once you’ve found a good spot, get everyone’s attention. Have them gather around, then start performing, no matter how small—or large—the crowd.

Right when you get to the best part of your act, refuse to continue until a certain amount is donated by the people watching you.

Walk around the circle of onlookers with a hat (or whatever you’re using to collect donations), jangling it particularly loudly in front of viewers who look prosperous. Announce how close you are to getting enough to end the piece.

Once you have enough cash, finish the act with a flourish.

When the crowd disperses, put away the money you’ve made but leave a dollar or two to show how much the previous audience had enjoyed your act.

Live frugally. Many people can support themselves performing on the street, but it requires the discipline to live within a budget.