“In 1884, five brothers from Baraboo, the Ringlings, put together the most stupendous circus ever known to man,” explained Scott O’Donnell, executive director of Circus World. “This was a time before the internet, motion pictures and television, even a time before reliable radio. How did people across America see these magnificent creatures, daredevil feats and performers from around the globe? It was only through the advent of the American circus, including and especially Baraboo’s very own Ringling Bros. Circus. Also from Baraboo were the Ringlings’ first cousins, the Gollmars, who had a magnificent circus of their own, and their first cousins, the Moellers, who created the whimsical, majestic circus wagons that were part of the Ringling circus and circuses all across America. The Ringling brothers and their extended family really encapsulated the American dream, and through them, changed American history and American culture forever.”
featuring live music and food, or cruise down “Eat Street” and taste the delectable treats of other food vendors. Then top off your afternoon by heading down to Baraboo’s treasured Circus World to catch a big top performance. This complete day’s package will leave you amazed and in awe of the splendor of all that Baraboo provides. In 2016, the Big Top Parade & Circus Celebration was recognized among the Top 100 Events in North America by the American Bus Association. Recognition on
this list highlights the parade for its value to tour groups and individual travelers from around the world. In 2017 and 2018, the event brought in more than 30,000 spectators and parade enthusiasts! For more information about Baraboo’s Big Top Parade & Circus Celebration, contact the Baraboo Area Chamber of Commerce at 608-356-8333, visitbigtopparade.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram by using the hashtag #bigtopparade. We invite you to discover real fun and whimsy in Baraboo! Photograph by Tom Williams
marching bands, horses and other animals and of course, the cavalcade of clowns!”
After catching the parade, stay downtown to enjoy more live entertainment at the Circus Palooza station, which will be DISCOVER REAl BARABOO 2019 | 23