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!”
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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𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗲 𝗪𝗲𝗱𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆: One of the most charismatic circus performers of all time, animal trainer Gunther Gebel-Williams dazzled Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey (RBBB) audiences from the time of his American debut in 1969. He headlined the Red Unit for more than 20 years with his elephant, big cat, and equestrian acts. This week’s Wardrobe Wednesday takes us to 1971 with a wardrobe drawing design by Don Foote and Gunther’s costume created from it. This look was a staple of Gunther’s circus wardrobe throughout his career.
📸: Although not a complete design, note Don Foote’s pencil sketch of the jacket in Circus World’s collection | CWi Image ID 12070
📸: Object ID 1975.3.1.1
📸: Object ID 1975.3.1.3 ... See MoreSee Less
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Gunther was my wife's favorite circus performer. One day after the show, she was walking through the parking lot and saw him. There was nobody else in the parking lot. He paused and took time talking to her. When we were married, he sent her a letter congratulating us. He advised her, "Never go to bed angry because you don't know what tomorrow will hold."
I was lucky enough to see Gunther over the years. He was an amazing performer!
We took our then 2 year old son to see Gunther in Salt Lake City. He was a tremendous performer for the circus!
One of my favorite costumes in your collection. The jacket is so heavily bedazzled it's fantastic!
Love it!! Knew it was his before I even read the post! 🐘 🐅 🦁 ♥️
I don’t know that we need the “ one of “
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For our 66th season, Circus World features a radiant new spectacle of color, beauty, fun and laughter as we celebrate "Holidays!"
𝗖𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗯 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗶 𝗔𝘀𝗰𝗵
𝗣𝗮𝘀 𝗱𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝘂𝘅 𝗼𝗻 𝗛𝗼𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸
This is a classic equestrian act. A pair partners atop horseback in a precarious duet requiring incredible balance, strength, and horsemanship.
Celebrate classic and kooky holidays with our all-star cast during our live summer performance season Friday, May 16 – Sunday, August 31. 2025. Make your plans now for your family to celebrate with us! ... See MoreSee Less
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Thank you for continuing to put in a real circus show!! Apparently Ringling Brothers, Barnum and Bailey opened back up this year with 0 animals. Except for a guy that does an act with a robotic dog I guess 🙄. Can you even call it a circus without animals...... I can't.
I am so looking forward to going to Circus World next summer since I wasn't able to go this year but I'm most excited about bringing my kids for the first time!!! ❤️
Can't wait...a favorite summer activity!
Great horses! 🥰
Can’t wait
First bareback at Cwm since Mark Karoly????
oh fantastic!!!!
El mejor acto que puede tener baraboo
GREAT ACT!
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For our 66th season, Circus World features a radiant new spectacle of color, beauty, fun and laughter as we celebrate "Holidays!"
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗹𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗼𝗲𝗺𝗮𝘀
Flying Trapeze outside on The Green – Watch the Poemas take to the air outdoors against the backdrop of the beautiful Circus World grounds. See this classic circus act up close as they soar from trapeze, to the hands of the catcher, and back again to the platform.
Russian Swing under the Big Top – The Poemas will perform the Russian Swing under the Big Top, a favorite of many. The Russian Swing will propel performers into the heights of the Big Top as they execute daring acrobatics, before landing safely within the vertical net.
Celebrate classic and kooky holidays with our all-star cast during our live summer performance season Friday, May 16 – Sunday, August 31. 2025. Make your plans now for your family to celebrate with us! ... See MoreSee Less
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Excellent! Trap is always great for Circus World. Traditional for sure. And I am a fan of the Russian Swing! Plus with new exhibit! Woo hooo. Fun season.
Fabulous news!
Yes!! Gordo & Max!! 👍
How exciting!!
I am SO excited!!! Where are the clowns?
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