History of Circus Sarasota

Founded in 1997, Circus Sarasota is a non-profit, 501(c)3 performing arts educational organization.

Known as the “Circus Capital of the World,” Sarasota, Florida claims its own resident hometown circus. Our annual professional performances, showcased in a one-ring, five-star, European-style big top, have been acclaimed around the globe for world-class artistry and entertainment. Committed to raising the perception of the circus as the valuable art form it represents, Circus Sarasota is much more than a circus.  Circus Sarasota directs approximately 80% of ticket revenue to help support its community outreach programs that serve children, the elderly and those in care facilities.  The year-round outreach programs Laughter Unlimited, Big Top Education and Sailor Circus contribute important outcomes in our community.  It remains equally important to Circus Sarasota to preserve Sarasota’s unique circus legacy through education, human service and the performing arts.