The Big Apple Circus is back celebrating 40 years in show business and we had ring side seats! This was our first time seeing the show and was intrigued by the commercials and YouTube videos circulating around. If you’re looking to see a show full of acrobatics, heart pounding stunts, and clowns that make you giggle, then this circus will be right up your alley.

5 Reasons to Visit the Big Apple Circus

1. When it comes to keeping the families entertained, the clowns gave us a real laugh. I mean who soaks themselves from head to toe in 60 degree weather  just for your entertainment? These guys!! They do a great job at audience participation and I had no idea that you could use a whoopee cushion as a musical instrument.
2. Dog and Horse Show lead by Jenny Vidbel – The dogs performed all sorts of tricks. One of the smaller dogs took a minute to be the highlight, giving us a little dance of his own. The horses were a majestic site to see as they strut their stuff and showed us how to make a dramatic exit. If you’re sitting close, you may get a brush across your smile (but no touching please).
3. The Anastasini Brothers – We had never witnessed human juggling until now. Balance, precision, twists, and strength is at the forefront of this unique acrobatic performance. We were on the edge of our seats in amazement.
4. Now we’ve been to many circus performances and I would have to give Big Apple Circus two thumbs way up for the live band. There was never a dull moment in the atmosphere. The music accompanied each act perfectly and they never missed a beat.
5. The Wallendas Family – The Wallendas ended the show with a Seven Person Pyramid. The jaw dropping, dangerous performance had our eyes fixated on each step taken. We were told that past family members died doing this very same trick and the mama bear in me almost wanted to cover the children’s eyes. But not to my surprise, the tightrope walk was achieved with perfection!

I don’t want to give up too much more but the roller skating and contortionists acts are pretty darn good. Try shooting a bow and arrow with your feet, yeah I had no luck either.

I want to mention that National Harbor doesn’t do a good job of signage for the circus. Just remember that the tent sits right across the street from the Gaylord National Hotel. Last thing, if you’re not a fan of porta-Johns, you may want to use the bathroom before you get there.

Big Apple Circus
March 8, 2018 – April 1, 2018
The Plateau at National Harbor, Intersection of Waterfront St. & St. George Blvd
National Harbor, MD

Moms with Tots was provided with complimentary tickets to the show. All thoughts and opinions are my own.