Grandparents on the Go: Under the Big Top

“Ladies and Gentlemen… Children of all Ages… Welcome to the Greatest Show on Earth…”

That famous line, spoken so succinctly by the Ringmaster, triggered goose bumps and brought a smile to my face.  The memory of special outings to the circus with my family 55 years ago is something I will never forget, so why not pass that feeling on to the grandchildren?  What they may not realize now is a visit to the circus can be a lifelong, positive memory.

It doesn’t need to be Ringling Brothers & Barnum and Bailey Circus you bring your grandchildren to; whether the production is large or small, what’s important is your grandchild’s first memory of tigers looking like big house cats, clowns juggling, and aerial acts skies above.  Where else can you share those lasting sensory associations and visuals with your kids, up close and personal?

The circus has changed since I last brought a child which was evident this summer at the US Airways Center in Phoenix. My surprise included lots of singing and dancing, extravagant costumes, wire acts, tumbling, magic, and a meet and greet with the circus performers themselves.

Children and adults alike were captivated by the non-stop action in the center ring and everything around it.  Any seat is a good one at the circus, but if you want to go all out, you can purchase some specially designed packages.

Come early for a Ringling Brothers & Barnum and Bailey extravaganza on the all-access pre-show where you meet the performers, observe the animals, try on costumes, and enter to win a painting by one of the elephants.

All ages will enjoy this show called “Built to Amaze,” as it lives up to its billing.  Our  grandchildren, ages two and three, were mesmerized from the pre-show to the end, cheering, clapping, laughing and dancing.

Before you Go:

• Check out www.ringling.com
• Share the book: “If I ran the Circus” by Dr. Seuss
• Tickets: Range from $10.00 each to $95.00 per person, Kids 23 months and younger free on Lap Souvenirs range from $10.00 to $75.00
• Food – Concessions–Vendors  in the stands
• Come as early as you can to enjoy the pre- show activities as it is more fun than the circus for some age groups.
• Dress comfortably and bring a camera.
• Baby’s First Circus – Expectant parents and parents with babies under 12 months of age, check it out.
• All access Pre-Show – Included in ticket; access to the show floor to meet all the performers, try on consumes etc.
• Animal Open House – included in ticket price; beginning 90 minutes prior to show.  Meet the Asian elephants outside the arena ( check to see if available in your city)
• Circus Celebrity –  Premium seating  up front and a ride in a tram on circus floor for part of the show
• Grandparent’s Favorite: Stars of the Steel Vortex
• Grandchildren’s Favorite: FREE clown nose and the tigers going Grrr…