Circus History
Under the Tent
Circus Animals
Performances
Circus Foods
100

Known for exotic animals, chariot races, and gladiatorial exhibitions, this civilization was credited as being the first to introduce circus performances.

Roman

100

This is the name given to the tent-like structure sometimes used to this day by travelling circus acts.

The Big Top

100

This animal was commonly used as a suspenseful show of discipline for the audience, with its tamer often seen putting their head in its mouth.

Lion

100

The name of the person, often the leader, of a circus.  This person introduces the acts.

The Ringmaster

100

This popular carnival food is made by deep-frying batter, then sprinkling powdered sugar over top.

Funnel Cake

200

Jules Leotard was the first to perform this thrilling, aerial act.

The Flying Trapeze

200

The French word for "circus".

Cirque

200

This animal was historically famous for jumping through a ring of fire.  This act is no longer performed for the animal's safety.

Tiger

200

Performing in this "ring" indicates a main event, or the "highest status" of performer rank.

Center Ring

200

Thinner than human hair, this food is fat free, gluten free, and healthier than many desserts available at a circus event.

Cotton Candy

300

This continent has never had a circus performance conducted in it.

Antarctica

300

Famously spoken by P.T. Barnum, "There's a _____ born every minute."

Sucker

300

The first elephant performer acquired by the Barnum and Bailey Circus.

Jumbo

300

Performers employed as comic relief, often to decrease tension after particularly breathtaking routines.

Clowns

300

A circus staple commonly sold to and consumed by spectators, this food is actually taboo for performers to eat backstage before a show.

Peanuts

400

In 1944, the Ringling Bros circus experienced this devastating tragedy, impacting its ability to performance and marking its name in the history books.

Fire

400

A human cannonball can travel up to this speed, simulating driving down the highway without a windshield.

60-70mph

400

In some circuses, this animal was trained to balance on large balls, ride a bicycle, and even wave to the audience.

Bear

400

The oldest form of circus entertainment, performed in the first ever Roman circus as a display of manual dexterity and coordination.

Juggling

400

Popcorn has been around since around this date.

400 B.C.

500

Phillip _____ was credited with establishing the first permanent circus building as well as having invented the circus "ring" in 1769.

Astley

500

It is circus superstition that bringing one of these feathers into the ring is bad luck.

Peacock Feather

500

The type of elephant formerly used in most circus performances.

Indian Elephant

500
If this is your craft, many in the circus world would call you a "funambulist".

Tightrope Walker

500

Nabisco, the popular snack company, was the first to sell this item in boxes.

Animal Crackers

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