Experience Circus History
Explore Circus World
What began with less than an acre of land, six historic circus wagons plus a lot of grit, determination, and passion, has now become an internationally recognized and respected institution encompassing 64 acres, 30 permanent structures, seven winter quarters buildings along Water Street, plus the Ringling Bros. Circus Train shed complex, and over 260 spectacular wagons. Circus World truly is “Wisconsin’s National Treasure!”
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Our Treasures
As other entertainment forms gained popularity, Circus World began documenting and collecting important treasures of the American Circus. From original Ringling Circus buildings to the smallest flea circus prop
Our Treasures will astonish!
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Members Get Free Admission!
Become a Wisconsin Historical Society member and visit all 12 of our historic sites for free! Membership pays for itself in as little as two visits and includes other great benefits like discounts and reciprocal benefits to more than 1,200 organizations.
Mark your calendars everyone! Hope to see each of you this year for this grand all American tradition.Circus entertainment’s universal appeal will be on display on Saturday, June 8, 2024, as the Big Top Parade returns to the streets of Downtown Baraboo.
Historic wagons, marching bands, animals and community floats will delight children of all ages along the parade route. Each entry will observe the parade’s “Blast Off” theme, which also is the theme of Circus World's 2024 big top show.
“This year’s parade will be out of this world,” said Nanci Caflisch, co-chair of the Big Top Parade organizing committee. “Here in the Ringling Brothers’ hometown, we love celebrating our legacy every summer.”
The parade will step off at 11 a.m. June 8, anchoring a weekend full of circus-themed fun.
“It’s a thrill to showcase Circus World’s unparalleled collection of wagons in our parade,” said George Althoff, Executive Director of the Baraboo Area Chamber of Commerce. “I can’t wait to see the far-out floats our sponsors and community groups add to our galaxy of stars.”
The weekend-long circus celebration will start Thursday evening, with a circus-themed installment of Baraboo Concerts on the Square. On Saturday morning, marching bands and the Wild Rumpus Circus for kids will entertain the crowd downtown before the parade begins. After the parade, all are encouraged to visit Circus World and see the “Blast Off” big top show at 1:15 and 3:30 p.m.
“We are over the moon, we’re so excited about this summer’s show,” said Scott O’Donnell, Executive Director of Circus World. “We are ready for liftoff in celebration of our 65th anniversary!”
Watch for updates on this summer’s parade and related events at bigtopparade.com.
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Would you please swing down through central Kansas for those of us who can't make it to Baraboo?
You know Spring has arrived when our resident Canadian Geese hatchlings are seen learning life around our grounds. These bundles of cuteness perk up our days as we ready for the summer season ahead! ... See MoreSee Less
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They are...if their parents are not chasing you 😉
so cute!!!
In 1970, U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson from Wisconsin organized a nationwide "teach-in" to raise awareness for environmental issues such as air and water pollution. From that day forward Earth Day was formed, highlighting the need to preserve this special planet that we all call home. Celebrate Earth Day every day by committing to some eco-friendly actions. ... See MoreSee Less
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