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Prepare to Be Dazzled: The Big Top Show ‘Holidays!’ Debuts at Circus World, May 16

Spectacular circus season begins with return of iconic Ringling Bros. Bell Wagon, NEW ‘Iron Jaw’ exhibit, and a themed ‘Holidays!’ Big Top show featuring a riveting highwire motorcycle act

BARABOO, Wis.— Circus World, a National Historic Landmark and premier destination for circus history and the performing arts, kicks off its summer season on May 16 with “Holidays!”—an extravagant reimagining of a 1940s holiday-themed circus show. Bursting with awe-inspiring acrobats, aerialists, unicycle riders, and a Circus World Big Top first: a thrilling motorcycle highwire performance, it's a spectacle not to be missed. This year’s performance cast includes premiere circus artists from around the globe as well as Baraboo’s own hometown circus hero, Carson Howell.

The iconic destination in Baraboo—the birthplace of the Ringling Brothers Circus—is where the circus comes to life. Visitors can look forward to thrilling performances by world-class entertainers, unique exhibits and a fun-filled atmosphere for all ages. At just $23 for adults and $15 for children ages 5-12, it's a remarkable value—and always free for Wisconsin Historical Society members. Spanning 64 acres, this beloved attraction is home to the world’s largest collection of circus wagons, with more than 120 on display, as well as the original Ringling Brothers winter headquarters, where five historic buildings are currently open for viewing.

This circus season, visitors can view the iconic Bell Wagon—commissioned by the Ringling Brothers for the 1892 season—alongside three historic wagons on loan from Feld Entertainment, Inc., returning to the site for the first time since 2013. A new “Iron Jaw” exhibit offers a fascinating look into the world of performers showcasing rare objects and memorabilia associated with this daring circus art. The Flying Poemas will soar from the trapeze in the open-air greens of the Circus World grounds. And of course, the twice-daily Big Top performance will delight audiences with jaw-dropping feats, stunning artistry, dazzling costumes and some clowning around —after all, this is the Circus!

Circus World is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from April 21 through May 15. The spring season cost is $11 for adults and teens, $9 for seniors (65+), $7 for children (5 to 12) and free for children under five.

The site’s summer season with live daily performances begins on May 16, with operating hours from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday through Monday. The daily circus performances will take place at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. The summer season cost is $23 for adults and teens, $20 for seniors (65+), $15 for children (5 to 12) and free for children under five.

Book tickets online to reserve your spot at Wisconsin’s iconic destination for circus fun. Season passes are available for sale online, and don’t wait to reserve your place at family-friendly ticketed events happening throughout the season.

Wisconsin Historical Society members receive free general admission and 10% off ticketed events. Members are encouraged to pick up a Pastport for the 2025 season to start earning stamps towards special prizes for every Wisconsin Historical Society site visited!

Upcoming Events at Circus World:

Military Service Day – May 24 special ceremony at 9:30 a.m.

Circus World celebrates active-duty military personnel and veterans with a special ceremony on Saturday, May 24. All active military, reservists, veterans, and their families are admitted FREE to attend the program and are invited to stay for the day’s live performances.

Baraboo’s Big Top Parade and Celebration – June 14, parade at 11 a.m.

The Big Top Parade will return to the streets of downtown Baraboo on Flag Day with fun for the whole family! This year’s parade will feature the iconic Bell Wagon, with a special performance on the bells by former Circus World Ringmaster Dave SaLoutos. The parade features traditional circus parade units and circus-themed entries created by community groups and businesses. Young and old will be enthralled by the historic circus wagons, marching bands, community floats, horses and of course, a cavalcade of clowns!

Circus World Anniversary Days (a summer steal!) – June 27-30, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Circus World is celebrating 66 years of fun with an incredible deal the whole family can enjoy! Just $6 admits guests to the site for any one of the four Anniversary Days this year. This annual favorite is the best deal in town for a day filled with circus adventures.

Circus World Classic Car Show – Aug. 3, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Ready to race on down to Circus World this summer for an unbeatable show of human horsepower? Come see vintage hot rods, muscle cars, heavy-duty trucks, rare rides and more while enjoying the magic of classic circus performances across acres of exhibits. Your astounding automotive adventure includes general admission to the one and only Circus World.

Wagons and Wine – Aug. 16, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Join us at Circus World, where magnificent historic wagons transform into a host of enchanting wine stations for an evening of wow-inducing wonder and lovely libations! Weave your way through our mesmerizing grounds as 12 historic wagons host a grand tasting tour, each offering perfectly paired red and white selections. Your evening also includes an assortment of tempting treats for sale to tantalize your taste buds, and a selection of magnificent mementos to purchase and take home. Tickets are $45 per person and a discounted rate of $15 for the designated driver.

About Circus World

Circus World is one of the Wisconsin Historical Society’s 12 historic sites and museums. Located at the site of the Ringling Bros. Circus Historic Winter Quarters in Baraboo, it was comprised of less than an acre of land and a collection of six circus wagons at its founding and has grown into an internationally respected institution encompassing 64 acres, 30 permanent structures and over 260 historic wagons and vehicles. Visitors can enjoy live performances during the summer season and explore eight buildings highlighting the innovations, excitement and wonder of the American circus. Visit circusworldbaraboo.com for more information and a list of upcoming events. Wisconsin Historical Society members receive free admission to this site during regular operating hours.

About Wisconsin Historical Society

The Wisconsin Historical Society, founded in 1846, ranks as one of the largest, most active and most diversified state historical societies in the nation. As both a state agency and a private membership organization, its mission is to help people connect to the past by collecting, preserving and sharing stories. The Wisconsin Historical Society serves millions of people every year through a wide range of sites, programs and services. For more information, visit wisconsinhistory.org.