After living in New York for a long time, I finally made it to the Big Apple Circus this year. Each act had its own unique theme and atmosphere, and I was surprised by the diversity of the performers. Between the main acts, the ringmaster performs smaller tricks and brings audience members on stage; while these segments felt a little long, they were cute overall. A few tips for your visit: - There is only one general entrance (plus VIP), so expect to wait outside. This can be tough if the weather is freezing. - There is a bar & plenty of snacks, but lines get long right before showtime. Be warned that the seating is very tight. I actually regretted buying nachos with cheese because I was terrified of spilling cheese on my neighbors! - The tent was very warm (sometimes too warm). Again, the seats are super tight so I had a hard time juggling my layers, bag, food, and drinks. - Most people say every seat has a good view, but for the best perspective, I'd recommend aiming for the center middle or upper rows. - Our 6:15 PM show ended at exactly 8:25 PM (2 hours and 10 minutes), which is helpful to know for dinner reservations. My only real disappointment was the audience. The performers do incredible, dangerous stunts, yet the applause was so weak! I felt bad for them- they deserve more than a polite "clap clap" for the level of talent they show. Overall, cute and great for all ages. Highly recommend! read more

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THE GOOD ---------------- + JAW-DROPPING, THRILLING, FUNNY, AMAZING and any other positive superlative you can think of! ++++ Every feat of strength, balance, twisting and coordination leaves you on the edge of your seat. ++++ For the 2025 edition, there were many variations of death-defying acrobats from multiple entertainers, acts of agility involving fluffy dogs, contortionists, juggling and extreme hula hooping mixed with short acts of hilarious comedy from the lead clown/entertainer of the show, Johnny Rico. ++++ There were acts in the show, specifically with the lead clown, that engaged the crowd and involved them in his acts. ++++ Show time was manageable at about 2 hours with a 20 minute intermission in the middle. + Concessions were right outside of the circus ring and sold your typical entertainment foods (e.g., pretzels, nachos, pizza, hot dogs, popcorn, sweet treats and drinks) and light up toys. + Almost every seat provided a fantastic view of the action. We sat in the 3rd to last row and we were able to see every act perfectly fine. THE NOT SO GOOD ---------------------------- - The light up toys that were sold in the Concessions area were $20 each! Talk about price mark up. Not only were they extremely expensive, but we noticed that they stopped lighting up for some people halfway through the show. - Supposedly, food and drinks are not allowed in, however, it's possible to get it in depending on how thorough security is with checking your bag. MIXED THOUGHTS --------------------------- = Nada. RANDOM OBSERVATIONS -------------------------------------- = Make sure to enter the big top through the gate assigned to your ticket as they will not let you in if you're trying to get in through the wrong gate. = Have your camera ready at ALLLLL times to record the action and take pictures! read more

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I just came across this place when I was exploring the city one day and wanted to see what it was about. Location is next to the Metropolitan Opera House in a big tent that was kept pretty insulated. The whole experience was better than I expected from the live orchestra to the variety of talents. They keep things entertaining with interactions with the crowd and kids. They definitely do a good job on all of the different performances that range from acrobatics to dog tricks. The size of the tent was big enough that wherever you sit you can still get a good view. Would definitely go back and experience everything again Visted December 2025 read more

I used to go to the Big Apple Circus every year and then have not been in a few years. They used to have animals but not anymore which I honestly like better. It is in a tent with seating that is in a circle and the stage is in the middle. There are snacks and a bar here too. Also definitely check out the little gift shop stand some fun things here. There are many acts in this show that are all wonderful. And the theme for this show is NYC playground so they take that theme through out the whole show and all the acts have something to do with an area of the city. And there is no ringmaster or used to be grandma the leads of the show that take you through the show are the NYC mice. People dressed up as The mice/ rats here. It is very well thought out theme show in my opinion. One of my fav acts was the three men spewing water from their mouths. It was truly very funny. And I love all the acrobats and the three people doing the trapeze. Flying through out the tent is just a site to see. I also really enjoyed the contortionist. WOW is all I can say about that one! This is truly a family friendly show for all ages young and old. And some people from the audience can actually be in the show too as they pick out people to help with some acts. I highly recommend coming to see the Big Apple Circus when it is in town. read more

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5.0 / 5.0 I was told that the circus would be held for a limited time at DAMROSCH PARK on the left side of the MET Opera, so I went there immediately! After purchasing tickets at the Box Office, I went through the security check and entered the venue. Strollers are kept at the PARKING right after entering the venue. I thought it would be cold since it was a temporary venue, but the room temperature was fine even without outerwear. There is a concession stand where you can buy popcorn, drinks, and goods! The spacing between the seats was a little narrow, but my butt didn't get sore after sitting for a long time, probably because the seats were thick. The legroom is small, so it is best to keep luggage to a minimum! The performance lasted about 2 hours, with a 20-minute intermission. I won't describe the program here because I want you to enjoy it after you see it, but I felt like I was traveling through the streets of New York City. I can't stop being thrilled and excited. Since there are many people with children, adults and children alike can enjoy the show! Thank you for the excitement! read more

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I had a wonderful time at the circus! It was just me and my boyfriend and I was worried that it might be too childish, but it was great!! There were so many acts and there was almost never a dull moment. The circus is kid-friendly and some scenes are more geared towards kids, but there were still many attendees without kids as well. Getting in with smooth and we were ushered directly to our seats. I would recommend this to anyone looking for an entertaining night filled with acrobatics, dancing, comical relief, and more. When buying tickets, any seat is good for viewing so don't hesitate to save some money by seating in the lower tier back area. read more

Big Apple Circus - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

It was an amazing night full of people wanting to see all that the Big Apple Circus had to offer! I took my 13 year old who wasn't too thrilled about the circus at first but once we were there and the performances were happening she didn't want to leave. It was a such an amazing show. I was happy to see there were only a few dogs apart of the show as opposed to so many other animals in previous years. Very very enjoyable show 100% recommend for all ages! read more

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We went for opening night. The acts were great! Overall has cute New York themes and references, the acrobatics were insane, and crowd had good energy. The show was about 2 hours long with a intermission. The venue had a bar, a small concessions stand, and hot dogs, and pretzels, and a merch stand. The venue is pretty small, and crowd control was a little questionable tonight, lines were long and slow moving everywhere with staff not guiding flow. Ushers took us to the wrong seats twice! And in general staff seemed a little confused, but it was the the first night so they should get the hang of it soon. read more

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Pretty good. Not good as circus soooo leeeeeeeleeee but good. The Chinese head bouncing inside down dudes were fun.... The trapeze dudes were that good but the funny clown was ok and laughable read more

Big Apple Circus - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

The experience was so good. If you have little kids then they're really going to like this. The tricks, acts, and performance is all amazing. Highly recommend. read more

I haven't been to the circus in a long long time and I was super excited to go. Thank you Katey and the Yelp Elite NYC team for planning this event as it brought out the child in me and allowed me to experience something I wouldn't have normally. When we got inside, we were immediately greeted with popcorn and cotton candy which already set the mood. Here are some of my favorite things about the experience: - My favorite act was The Human Fountains. I know they got famous of America's Got Talent but I didn't know who they were until they performed here. Their act was so incredibly funny and amazing as they spewed water out of their mouths like a fountain. They really captured the essence of so many fountain displays, for example when there was one person spewing water into another person's mouth. You really do see those sculptures of one thing spewing water into another thing. And then the fact they had audience participation was so fun as well. - The Russian Swing act was also so fun as these people were flying 5 foot into the air onto a sheet that really wasn't that wide. It felt so dangerous. - I also loved that this whole experience was in a makeshift tent. I have never been to a circus that was propped up in that way and it made me wonder why we don't have more experiences that are also in a tent. - The seating in a half dome pattern was so fun as well as it really felt like we were all part of this experience which helped hype the audience up. Honestly loved this Yelp Elite experience and in the future if I ever had a kid, I will definitely be taking them to the circus. Regardless, would highly recommend going whether you are old or young. read more

Big Apple Circus - Human Fountains - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

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I attended opening night and it was my first visit to Big Apple Circus, and first time going to any circus in decades. I took my 6 year old and we each got hot dogs and popcorn to add to the experience. I did notice that my son was among a relatively small number of kids, the audience turned out to be mostly adults. I wouldn't really say that the show was specifically geared towards adults, but it didn't feel like small children were the target audience, which is fine. My son was asking to leave around the intermission, but we just barely made it through the finale which was the trapeze. The acrobats and aerialists in this circus are immensely talented and their performances were extremely impressive. The funniest and most unexpected part of the show were the trio of water guys, I won't say enough to give their bit away, but the crowd was dying laughing. I thought that the circus was animal-free but the poodles they brought out were adorable and seemingly well taken care of. I can't say that the overall theme carried out by the rat narrators landed well. I know they need something to fill up space when performers are getting ready for their acts, but they were my least favorite part of the show. read more

We took our grandchildren to this circus which was expensive for both performance time and variety. The high wire acts were excellent, as was the contortionist who was amazing. I felt it was a Circ D' Solei ( forgive my French) compressed down to a circus for children experience. I could not understand why they were totally devoid of traditional clowns and their antics while trying to have people running around dressed up as rats acting more weird than funny . My 4 and 7 year old grandkids enjoyed the poodle act but were not overwhelmed by anything else. Perhaps not allowing traditional animal acts anymore takes some of the glitter and fun away from the circus atmosphere. Maybe would give it four stars if price was less and had more bang. read more

Big Apple Circus - A rotating contraption with a trapeze artist running up and down the circumference of the set while it moves. - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

The show was wonderful! They had an assortment of acts that were very diversified. The small stage was used wisely. The performers were excited, and the crowed was thrilled. Big Apple Circus had premium seating for Yelp Elite customers. The lighting and digital effects were impressive! read more

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Came during the premiere where it was very packed with people getting in. It was a mix of some very skilled performances as well as some that wasn't skilled but much of a comedy performance. Otherall it was a very entertaining show to watch. read more

Big Apple Circus - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

The Big Apple Circus brought back fond memories of childhood circus days. This event was held near Lincoln Center. The tent setup was impressive. weather. The performance were awesome. The acrobats and trapeze artists were particularly impressive, with their daring feats and dramatic flair. The comedic acts and juggling performances were also entertaining. Overall, it was a fun and nostalgic experience, perfect for a family outing or a night out with friends. read more

Big Apple Circus - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

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This experience transferred me back in time to being a kid and experience the excitement of visiting the circus. The event was well organized though the show started slightly later than originally planned, expected for the opening night. The show was captivating. The acrobatic performances were particularly enchanting and a joy to watch. The performers and crew were very well coordinated and it makes you think of all the work that goes into producing such shows. Definitely a great one to attend with kids as well. Evening well spent! read more

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Amazing show easily the best circus I've ever seen. One act was better than the last.

Having not been to the circus for many years, it was a wonderful experience. Upon entering the Big Apple Cirvus tent, you will be captivated. You are transported back in time to your first circus experience in a magical dream world. We found the staff and crew to be extremely friendly and professional. We found the check-in process to be fast and pleasant. It was a comfortable and cosy venue with comfortable seating. The circus performers were all outstanding. Every aspect of the show was breath-taking and exciting. I highly recommend seeing the Big Apple Circus while it is in the area. The show is suitable for all ages and is a family friendly event. read more

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One of the BEST circuses I've been to! Lots of acts I haven't seen before at a circus including tightrope, trapeze, other flying tricks, dog tricks, a hilarious "water" show, and other fun gimmicks. They know how to keep a crowd engaged! Very kid friendly. Would highly recommend :) read more

Big Apple Circus - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

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A limited time event right outside of Lincoln Square's Metropolitan opera theater. It's been a while since I've been to the circus in NYC. We're talking about the Barnum & Bailey's old school circus days when I went to one in elementary school with animals in the performance. This was such a good event for families and to bring the kiddies to. The setup was through various tents and I was very impressed at the temperature maintenance for the event as this was in the middle of winter. The check-in process was very seamless and quick. Spacious area and lobby to view the circus' history. Seating was a bit tight and you have to suck in your gut to squeeze through the condensed rows. Only portable bathrooms were available here. It was a bathroom stall, not your stall types you'd see at concerts for those who are squeamish. Once seated, then the experience began with the multiple performances. They had the acrobats, the comical sound effects mime shows, knives jugglers, and figurine dancers. The acrobatic shows were the best and I enjoyed immensely the dramatics placed in the show for shock effect. Poised, graceful, and a good show of strength were all the acrobatics' performances. Music and lighting with the shows were great and none of this was off. A nice activity for a Friday night and to end the week with a group of friends who's looking for fun performances outside the NYC usuals. read more

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With the exception of a dog act the animals are gone and it's more of an acrobatic show than a traditional circus (do they even exist anymore?). Still, well executed and fun for all ages. read more

We brought our 2- year old granddaughter to the Big Apple Circus, and she loved it every bit as much as we did! The performers were absolutely astounding- so talented, full of energy, and clearly passionate about what they do. Every act had us smiling, clapping, and amazed. It's wonderful to see a show that brings such joy to all ages. A truly unforgettable experience- five stars all the way! , read more

Amazing circus!!! I went opening night, and it was a magical, extremely fun experience!!! Highly organized and a great time- thank you!!!

This recent show was amazing and absolutely hilarious. Was worried that it would be geared more towards kids, but I was pleasantly surprised. All of the acts were crazy (in a good way). Definitely would recommend to anyone who wants some entertainment. read more

I attended the Big Apple Circus performance with my daughter in the December of 2024 and we had an absolutely wonderful time. Amazing stunts and hilarious tactics great for kids (except the last act where the performers drink water from a glass then spit it out continuously and even swap ..saliva eeewwww). Overall it was pretty good. read more

Big Apple Circus - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

Excellent!!! Soooo much fun! It's such an entertaining show with such great acts! There's no animals in this circus except for a really cute poodle performance so it's made up of real circus acts and it's so well done.the seats are also set up to where you get a perfect view of everything happening around you. Such a fun time and can't wait to go back! read more

The circus is back in town! Having embarrassingly never been to a circus before, I did not know what to expect. The level to athleticism and showmanship is top notch to delight children and adults alike. Despite some hiccups on opening night, the performers were energized and motivated to complete the most daring of tricks. Definitely recommend! read more

I got tickets to the Big Apple Circus to go with my sister! We have lived here for over 4 years and have always been curious to see what it was all about! They had a lot of options for snacks and beverages, including a full bar! We got popcorn and sodas! Parts of it can be slightly childish, but it's a fun and unique New York night out! Definitely recommend coming!! read more

What a great show! Entertaining to all ages! We brought our 5 1/2 year old daughter and she had a great time! The show goes for a solid 2 hours and 20 minutes (including intermission) and it's highly recommended. No animals (thanks God), but plenty of acrobatic pieces to marvel. You won't be disappointed. read more

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Took my daughter to the Big Apple Circus in the Lincoln Center area on what I think was opening night. All the bells and whistles were there, from the comedic ringleader who was dressed as a rat, to acrobats and magic tricks. The only thing missing were the animals, PETA wins again. My baby had a great experience, and that's really all that counts. read more

We had such a great experience the big Apple circus! Incredible talent, fun music, great energy. We saw some pretty wild acts that luckily all ended safely. It was the perfect amount of time for the kids- they didn't have much attention left after intermission. Luckily they saved some of their most special acts for the very end. Very intimate setting- constant engagement with the actors/talent. Highly recommend! read more

This was a fantastic show with a lot of different acts that were entertaining. The stunts were spectacular, even better than some of the performances you might see in Vegas. It genuinely was one of the best circus shows I've been to. I liked the New York touch they added to it. read more

Wow! What a fantastic show! The Big Apple Circus rolls out a new show every year and this year's was particularly fantastic! The musicians, the acrobats, the jugglers, the clowns, particularly the steam punk clown with the epic bubble skills. The performers were also so friendly and welcoming to the families in the audience, it was an overall excellent experience! *No animals at all, just a few humans in polar bear costumes read more

Its an okay experience. Went with my whole family and my son loved the lights. In front is a cash grab as they advertise a bunch of kid toys knowing that kids love that and parents are willing to pay the up priced toys/light sticks. We were seated all the way in the back as those were the cheapest tickets at 30 a piece. There are no animals in the act but they have people in animal costumes to fool the young kids. The acrobats were probably the best parts. Wish they had magic instead of a comedian which didn't really cater to toddlers. Compared to circus from when i was a kids, seems to have gone down in terms of acts and quality. read more

Our yearly outing to the Bug Apple Circus is always fun and enjoyable. The kids look forward to it every year, as do I. Great performances, always a fan! read more

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Excellent performance. Came in with very low expectations, and was blown away by the caliber of talent and the storyline of the overall show. The music was exceptional with singing, instruments, and unique sounds. The acrobatics was extremely dangerous, at the same level of Cirque, if not more dangerous. The skill of the performers was very high, which required more than just strength, but also dexterity and speed. Well run performance that blew away expectations. Well worth the money for half the price of a normal Cirque. read more

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This is not cirque du soleil. It's different and its own thing. Production quality is much lower but the show is more personable and intimate. Lots of fun for the whole family. read more

This was a really fun family friendly experience. I've never been to a circus in nyc and I was glad I went. There were alot of talents and fun performances. The line went quick and everything was seamless. Popcorn wasn't too great but it is what it is. I would recommend read more

The Big Apple Circus is an incredible experience with everything you would want to see! A story that's funny and relatable to NYC. Great snacks. Hilarious for kids and adults! Highly recommend. read more