See You in Spring 2025!

Thanks for another stupendous season! We reopen for visitors in March 2025.
Your donation supports Circus World Museum’s preservation efforts and helps us continue sharing the wonder of circus history. Give today and be part of the legacy!

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!

Start your history road trip!

Pick up your 2024 Member PastPort and start collecting stamps when you visit Circus World! Redeem your stamps for discounts or even a free year of membership!
Not a member? Join today to get in on the fun.

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Wisconsin Historical Society members receive unlimited free admission to our 11 historic sites and museums, a complimentary annual subscription to the Wisconsin Magazine of History, merchandise discounts and more. Join at the Family level and above for added benefits and discounts at over 1,200 organizations nationwide! 


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Circus World

Circus World

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Circus World - Official

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1 day ago
Circus World

𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗲 𝗪𝗲𝗱𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆: The holiday season is upon us, so we thought we’d share some sparkle for Wardrobe Wednesday this week! This tailcoat features a hand-painted ombre design that transitions from silver to violet, and it is embellished throughout with rhinestones, sequins, and beads. Ringmaster Eric Michael Gillett donned this beauty for the 123rd edition of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus (1993-94) while singing “Flying in Your Dreams” during Vivien Larible’s aerial act.

While we do not have the original Arthur Boccia wardrobe drawing for this jacket, a copy of the design can be found in the costume bible put together by Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus for the show.

📸: Object ID 2020.26.2

📸: Both the front and back of the jacket feature extensive embellishments that shine under the lights | Object ID 2024.24.1

📸: Eric Michael Gillett is shown in the jacket while performing with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus | CWi Image ID 1944
... See MoreSee Less

𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗲 𝗪𝗲𝗱𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆: The holiday season is upon us, so we thought we’d share some sparkle for Wardrobe Wednesday this week! This tailcoat features a hand-painted ombre design that transitions from silver to violet, and it is embellished throughout with rhinestones, sequins, and beads. Ringmaster Eric Michael Gillett donned this beauty for the 123rd edition of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus (1993-94) while singing “Flying in Your Dreams” during Vivien Larible’s aerial act. 
   
While we do not have the original Arthur Boccia wardrobe drawing for this jacket, a copy of the design can be found in the costume bible put together by Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus for the show. 

📸: Object ID 2020.26.2 
  
📸: Both the front and back of the jacket feature extensive embellishments that shine under the lights | Object ID 2024.24.1 
  
📸: Eric Michael Gillett is shown in the jacket while performing with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus | CWi Image ID 1944Image attachmentImage attachment

Comment on Facebook

I love wardrobe Wednesday! Beautiful long coat. The colors, the sparkle. Cool vest as well. Cant wait to see what is next!

I'd love to be a ringmaster!! Even if it was just for one day!

The wardrobe art work of Arthur Boccia the amazing costume designer for Ringling Circus. is being preserve by a person with deep ties to him.

4 days ago
Circus World

Everyday can be a circus day! Shop our online store for your favorite Circus World merchandise.

From books to puzzles to blankets – lots of great gift ideas for those circus enthusiasts in your life.

Shop NOW: wihist.org/39fQHDN
... See MoreSee Less

Comment on Facebook

I saw no Circus World merchandise, a lot of Old fashion (the drink) items. Might be ok for the Wisconsin Historical Society, but I'm not sure that's appropriate for Circus World's image.