Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey

Posted byBrittney GarciaPosted inUncategorizedTags:, , , ,

Ringling is Back in Tampa: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

If you grew up in Tampa, you probably remember the circus as a rite of passage. This weekend, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey is taking over the Benchmark International Arena (yeah, the one we still call Amalie) for a huge homecoming.

But don’t expect the same show you saw ten years ago. They’ve completely ditched the animal acts and replaced them with high-octane, “how-are-they-doing-that” human talent. Think of it more like a massive, music-driven party where the performers are basically real-life superheroes.

🎪 What’s Actually New?

I did some digging, and there are a few acts you definitely don’t want to miss:

  • The Triangular High Wire: Usually, it’s just one wire. This time, the Lopez Family performs 25 feet up on three wires connected in a triangle. They even ride bikes up there.
  • The Human Rocket: Skyler Miser (who is basically circus royalty) gets launched out of a massive rocket at 65 mph.
  • Bailey the Robo-Pup: Since there are no real animals, they’ve introduced a robotic dog named Bailey. It’s a bit of a “love it or hate it” addition, but the kids usually think it’s pretty cool.
  • Criss-Cross Trapeze: Nine aerialists flying in every direction at once—it’s chaotic in the best way possible.

The Full Schedule

The circus is only here from Friday through Sunday (Jan 2–4). Here is the breakdown:

DateShowtimes
Friday, Jan 27:00 PM
Saturday, Jan 311:00 AM, 3:00 PM, 7:00 PM
Sunday, Jan 411:00 AM, 3:00 PM

🚗 Parking & Logistics (The Stress-Saver)

Tampa traffic is no joke, especially on a Friday night or a busy Saturday downtown.

  • The Best Lots: Your easiest bets are the Pam Iorio Garage (right next to the arena) or the Port Garage.
  • If you want to save a few bucks, park at the Fort Brooke Garage and hop on the TECO Streetcar. It’s free, and the kids usually love the trolley ride almost as much as the show.
  • Prices: Expect to pay anywhere from $25 to $35 for event parking near the arena.

🎟️ Quick Checklist

  • Tickets: Kids 2 and up need their own seat.
  • Bag Policy: The arena is strict. Usually, only small clutches (about 5″x8″) are allowed. If you have a diaper bag, you’ll likely have to go through a dedicated screening lane, so build in an extra 15 minutes.
  • Arrival: Aim to get there 60 minutes early. The “Hype Crew” starts the party before the official show begins, and it’s a great time to grab your popcorn without the massive lines.

How to Get Tickets

Tickets are moving fast, but you can still snag them online. Prices usually start around $31, but they go up as the arena fills.

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