Great show! I was staying at the Madonna Inn and heard about the circus. Got tickets at the last minute and the show was AMAZING! Great balance of light hearted comedy, death defying acrobats and feats of pure strength & balance from the performers. Loved the entire show. read more

Circus Vargas - Ring Master and clown. - Performing Arts Near Me - San Luis Obispo, California

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We got lucky - without any advertisement, driving in 101 pass Madonna inn, we noticed circus. With the help of chatgpt, identified it as circus Vargas. We came for the second day of their San Luis Obispo engagement, it was their new show masquerade, and it was amazing. All in all 2+ hours, and it flew by like a moment. The price is fraction of the other cirque show, and so much pure fun. Clown act was a common thread, and it was creative and thoughtful fun. Other elements are as impressive, with highlight a bunch of motorcycles riding in a dome. Highly highly recommend. Tip/ try to sit in the center, facing the center stage; rows 5-8. read more

Circus Vargas - Performing Arts Near Me - San Luis Obispo, California

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BUY TICKETS FROM THE CIRCUS VARGAS WEBSITE!!! What a great show! Such athleticism and skill. It was a fun night. But my mom got cheated out of a lot of money by buying tickets from go tickets. Buy directly from the circus website! read more

Circus Vargas - Circus stage - Performing Arts Near Me - San Luis Obispo, California

Great show! Very talented performers. Highly recommended for all ages. Very uplifting performance with variety and risk. read more

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For audience reference, my boyfriend and I went, both in our early 20s... without ever being to a circus. The price was way too much, we paid $130 for both tickets, for the value of the show... It's way too kiddy and the storyline goes by very very slow and we were drifting off most of it. we left 40 mins in because we were uninterested, again thought it would be a more vegas style circus entertainment or even old Californian circus with animals so just not our thing. Way too gimmicky and not for all age ranges!! over 10 years old it's a bust. BUTTT, if you're strictly going with kids they would love it! The food is expensive for being very mediocre and the parking is not included in the already big price. however... you can clearly see the performers love their jobs, the kids, and what they do which is rare now and i appreciated, but again, Just not for us. read more

Circus Vargas - As you could see, overwhelmingly for children. - Performing Arts Near Me - San Luis Obispo, California

Do not pay for parking if you are going to the Folsom show at lakeside church. They will try to get you to pay but they DO NOT need to charge you for parking there. This circus will overcharge and charge you for anything. read more

We go every year when it co.es to town and the shows are always great. Audience participation is always fun too. The costumes, props, and performances get better and more elaborate every year. Can't wait to go next year read more

Get your tickets ASAP! It's summer and you wanna do something different, this is it. How exciting is it to just be thrilled and shocked at your seat! The intimate setting is perfect, every seat honestly isn't bad! Support the travelling artists, especially now that they don't use animals. The mix of music and just the family friendly atmosphere is great! They make money off of the concession stands and the souvenirs, so please take a looksy at what they got! The entertainment you get out of your ticket alone is not a bad deal, it's incredible how many acts they have for that price. Get out and do something new! The parking was easy and the popcorn is fresh! Have fun friends! read more

Circus Vargas - Such a good variety of talented people!!! Completely worth it! - Performing Arts Near Me - San Luis Obispo, California

What an amazing, jaw-dropping experience! The live acts, the abilities and talent people bring forth for entertainment in this show is absolutely fantastic!!! We attended the one in Roseville and I absolutely loved it. Great for family time! read more

After my older daughter saw the "Wheel of Destiny" or also known as the "Wheel of Death" performed at a previous Circus Vargas show in San Luis Obispo and couldn't stop talking about it, my younger daughter really wanted to go see it so we bought tickets for a Friday 4PM show. The show was roughly a third full and for some reason they decided to not perform the "Wheel of Death". I immediately told my daughter that they must have been sick which is why we didn't get to see it performed. Of course at the end of the show we performers who perform the "Wheel of Death" get introduced and they take a bow - even though they DIDN'T PERFORM. Of course we find out later that at the more well attended show later on they performed it (as well as the night prior). Pretty awful experience trying to explain to a kid why they didn't perform the headlining act... read more

Circus Vargas - For non "sold out" shows you'll be getting abbreviated performances or performances will be removed entirely. - Performing Arts Near Me - San Luis Obispo, California

Excellent show. Strong brave talented performers. We thoroughly enjoyed the entire evening!!

My wife and I just went to Circus Vargas and we were very impressed. This was my first circus so I can't compare it to anything but I can confirm that my heart was racing during some of the acts! There were multiple times we said, "No way is he going to do that", only to be left with our jaws on the floor. A friend of ours said to sit on the left or right side of the stage (not in front of it) for the best show. The VIP experience puts you in the first few rows but pretty much every seat in the tent is set up for maximum enjoyment. Parking was $10 and can be avoided if you just park in the parking lot at Copper Cafe and walk. All and all, we were very impressed with the entire show and will very likely be returning next year to see what's new. read more

Went to the circus in San Luis Obispo, CA. It was a spur of the moment to go but glad we did. You can park for $10 I believe. Tickets can be printed or texted to your phone. Very easy. Upon entering, you can purchase a variety of drinks and snacks. Even face painting for the kids. The show is great. Reminded me alittle bit of a Vegas show but much better price! Completely worth going and will go again when they are back in town. read more

Parking by the entrance is $10.00. If you don't mind walking, park by the restaurant or across the street at Ralph's. They have the usual food and drinks you'll find at a circus but no alcohol. When I bought the tickets online, it didn't show where the posts are located. Lucky me was sitting right in front of one. The venue is pretty small so any seat ( besides the ones by the exits) are good seats. The show itself was entertaining and a bit cheesy (a stuffed tiger in a cage and a needless storyline). There is a clown but bears no resemblance to Pennywise or John Wayne Gacy, so if coulrophobia is your gig, no worries ( just don't look at the clown mugs). read more

Circus Vargas - My view from seat 36 - Performing Arts Near Me - San Luis Obispo, California

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I told my wife, Let's go to the circus for my birthday! We had a blast. First of all, the Big Top tent with all the surrounding lights and booths just really feels like you're at the circus. Our seats we great, I'd say that any seat is good as there's not too many rows anyway. Then the Einaatwr comes out - he has a presence and a voice that commands attention and soothes at the same time. Then we stand for the Anthem and - totally unexpected - it's not a recording, he belts it out a capella. Turns out this guy is also a classically trained opera singer. Now the show begins. There's unicycles, jugglers, dancers, tight-rope walkers, dare-devils, and more. All exquisitely narrated by the Ringmaster. And no, there's no clown with a big red nose. There is a guy who clowns around a lot, we d cursed he's a modern take on the circus clown. We're empty nesters and had an adult evening and there were also lots of kids of all ages who all looked like they were having a great time. If you arrive hungry you're limited to hot dogs, popcorn, and sweets so we were glad we had dinner first. read more

I don't know what I could add that you've probably already read.. but the performances were incredible and I had a blast with my friends. The performers and crew just made us feel like kids again with the love, laughter, and adrenaline rush. And to see some performers running the concession stand prior, and/or intermission was crazy cool! So humbling to see these super humans interact with us in such a different perspective but on the same night, it made the experience that more magical. I'm a San Diego native and have seen the Circus Vargas tent along the freeway since ~20 years ago as a child but just now made it. I highly recommend you bring yourself and whoever you love and whoever you can, to be awe-inspired, and in such a cool way leave after the show with reinvigorated energy for the love of life. read more

10/10 Highly recommend anyone going. The entire circus vargus family are so genuinely entertaining and have some incredible skill! I also love that they do everything from snacks, to set up, and all between the crew so it's like a one team one dream feel and then you randomly remember "didn't I buy popcorn from the contortionist on stage right now?!" Looking forward to next year. read more

Great show! Diane was super nice.and runs a good show. Thanks for coming to SLO. Family loved it read more

Circus Vargas - Performing Arts Near Me - San Luis Obispo, California

Went last night, all I can say is WOW!! It was fun, funny, entertaining and at times nail biting. It was an absolutely awesome show. I was in awe of these artists who are truly masters of their acts, and it show. You can see the passion that they put into everything they do. It was good wholesome family fun. There isn't a bad seat (except where view is obstructed but that is mentioned when selecting seats), seriously all have a great view but closer to the ring probably got the best view. Getting tickets is easy. Parking is easy. Bathrooms (portable) were clean. Food pricing wasn't horrible for two adults, so I'm not sure how it would be for an entire family, but I will say that the quality of the food was good for the price. Nachos were actually filling, cheese was hot and the jalapeños were a great addition. We got popcorn from a guy walking around selling it instead of going to the popcorn machine so it wasn't the warmest but the popcorn to butter to salt ratio was perfect. The artist in the show are also the people at the concession stands. You feel like the genuinely want you to be there and enjoy yourself. It's amazing how much they do and how much effort they put in to it. Go to see circus Vargas! I can't wait to see them next year. **no animals are part of the show** read more

Good clean wholesome family entertainment. It is what you expect it to be and surprises you with being more. Hard working professionals. I am sure many great stories behind the scenes. read more

A surreal but sobering show. I was amazed. What stars! Incredible talent. Definitely come out and support the show. The bmx bikers were wild. 10/10 super awesome event read more

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Always stirring, imaginative, thrilling and heartwarming. We love this show, and the people who bring it to us! read more

This show was amazing! It's more than just a family show, all ages will love it. I was in awe the entire time. The crew is extremely talented. They are all experts in their craft. I can't wait for Circus Vargas to come to town next year. read more

This was such a fun experience for kids and adults, they really put on a good show! I went yesterday with my loved ones and had a great time. They have face painting, merch, food and bounce houses outside too. Every performer did amazing so I can't pick a favorite part, I only got a chance to record one video because I was enjoying the moment.. definitely get your tickets. And it's perfect for family's too because they give a 20 minute break for bathrooms or to get snacks and things :) read more

Excellent family show! Highly recommended. Watched show on May 14, 2023 at the Laguna Hills Mall Park and Ride location. Entertainers kept audience attention for 2 1/2 hours with a 20 min break. Some of performance includes 3 motorcyclists riding in a cicular sphere, a large wheel with 2 performers spinning it, balancing act that will make your jaw drop and other gymnist oriented acts to name a few. This animal free show is recommended for the entire family!​ read more

Circus Vargas - Sphere with 3 motorcyclists - Performing Arts Near Me - San Luis Obispo, California

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The performances were great! They made several mistakes, but tried against. It was worn down compared to other circuses I've been too, and the food was basic (cold popcorn, sodas, and a cool $10 snow one that lights up read more

Our 4 kids have never been to a circus because we are opposed to training/torturing animals for human entertainment. If you also prefer sexy pirates to miserable captive elephants with an authentic big top circus atmosphere Circus Vargas is a good one! Honestly, as entertaining as the several Circ Du Soleil we have shelled out $$$$ for. Bonus, really liked the body diversity in the performers, some bigger body types were not used for comic relief but were completing really amazing aerial arts. Checked all my ethics boxes, as well as the classic circus ones: traps, tight rope, clowning, juggling etc. Oh and that bathtub was full of water and that dude was all wet, wonder which of my kids is going to try that first.. read more

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Circus Vargas is beyond amazing! It is difficult to pick my favorite act because they were all so good. Each performer is an exceptional athlete, even the clown!! The show includes slap stick humor, audacious acts, and a touch of music. Bravo to the whole Circus Vargas team who put on an extraordinary experience! The venue is intimate and any seat in the house is great. The food court includes a few simple snacks and drinks, but who cares about the food. The show is amazing! Put it on your bucket list! read more

Talk about the WORST Show on Earth! I had to give it a rating .. just because! This circus is a scam, rip off and a total joke. Save your money and take your family to six flags or a water park. These scammers did everything possible to lure your kids into buying something, even when the show was going on. They would put balloons, light up toys, etc in the kids hands, so how are you able to say no when they have them in their hands. And the cost of these souvenirs are ridiculously priced. I had an awful experience and so did my family we didn't enjoy the show because of constant soliciting. How shameful! I should have not bought the tickets when my my 2 yr old said "why does the horse look soo sad" these animals looked extremely unwell and unhealthy. Least to say we left way before the show was even over. It was a sad spectacle. I'll no long support nor recommend this corrupt scam shit show to anyone. Save you money and don't support corrupt chistey, swindlers. read more

The first thirty minutes of the show had me wondering if I had just wasted $75... There were "crowd activities" that they started with, the limbo, balancing long feathers, etc. that seemed like time filler. Thirty long minutes... And then they started the real show, and it was very entertaining! For some reason whenever I think of the circus, I think of abused animals, although that probably disappeared a long time ago. What you get now are acrobatics and stunts paired with lovely music and entertaining performers. When the show first started, the place was barely half full, strange I'd think for a Saturday night. It was about 3/4 full by the time the show was in full swing. Personally, i'd stick with bleacher seating (the cheapest) as even the last bleacher benches are close enough to see everything without straining your eyes. Maybe fifty feet from the edge of the ring. Someone cruises around with a camera during the show and will take group/family photos that they'll sell you for $10 inserted into a paper/cardboard frame. They have a side area off of where the concession booths are for restrooms (port-a-potties), complete with washing stations, and there is a small table set up for baby changing with a pump bottle of hand sanitizer for when you're done. My only gripe was the concession worker was probably the slowest moving person I'd ever encountered. Bring a lot of money if you're going to get stuff there. A snow cone in a plastic LED-lit cup costs $8. Cotton candy is $5, yadda yadda yadda. You can, if course bring your own snacks and stuff I'd assume. No one checked anything except for our tickets. They encourage photos and videos, which is great since you don't have to worry about psycho ushers trying to keep you down :) Enjoy the show! read more

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Amazing show, very affordable, great stuff. So happy to see the show. Haven't been to the cicus very long time and it was amazing to see how people can do great performances read more

Awesome show and great performances. I am a huge fan of cirque de soleil and this was equally as entertaining for a fraction of the price. I highly recommend you plan a visit when they come to town. I gave them a 4 star rating because parking was not included and there were no signs ahead of time to let you know. It was unexpected. I also didn't really like being asked to take a picture then they interrupt you to try and sell it to you. I I understand this is a source of revenue but I think given modern day technology they could find other ways to offer a keepsake such as a digital download or a digital visual of the picture as you exit. All in all, Circus Vargas is totally worth it!! read more

This is no Cirque Du Soleil Vegas show... But I paid for a half priced bleacher seat at $13, not $100 for a Las Vegas show. The audience was mostly full of children with their parents, the acts were tame, nothing too scary, but still entertaining. The highlights to me were: the trampoline tricks (they flew pretty darn high and landed on ledges, jumped off a wall to get back down), the 2 guys running inside, outside and on top of the spinning wheel, and the near finale with 2 motorcycle riders in a cage that managed to ride in a circle without hitting each other. Yes, snow cones are $8 each... So don't buy one. (The poor dad in front of me shelled out for all 4 of his children). Parking right outside is $5 cash, but I chose to park at Madonna Inn and walk up. No alcohol sold at the circus itself, so visit the Madonna Inn bar first if you need an adult beverage. Also, no real bathrooms... Only porta potties, so go before you get there... read more

Circus Vargas - Motorcycle riders - Performing Arts Near Me - San Luis Obispo, California

I'm sure the show itself is amazing. This review has more to do with the customer service. These tickets were purchased in error due to the similarities in name (we meant to purchase tickets for Circus Vasquez). Now I'll admit it was our fault to begin with, but the way it was handled by customer service was poor. I spoke with a lady over the phone and it seemed like she didn't care about my situation, showing no sympathy at all. Now they do have the refund policy that states, "We are unable to offer refunds after tickets have been purchased without consent from the event promoter." I thought that they might be able to honor it, as it was an honest mistake from my part, but nope. These people are really about their money. They don't care about you or your honest mistakes at all. To end it off the lady over the phone says, "Nope once you buy the tickets, they are yours, OKAY?" Then proceeds to hang up on me. I thought, wow. Again I understand that it is their policy, and I'm not so bothered by that. I'm more bothered over the fact how it was handled and how rude the lady was to me. Again I'm sure the show itself is great, but they really need to learn how treat their customers right and improve in the customer service aspect. read more

The show was outstanding and incredible and very professionally done. It was so much more than we even anticipated. They had our whole family laughing and smiling through the whole thing. That was when we realized that it was worth so much more than the cost of the ticket. Incredible talent! We will definitely be back. read more

Thank you circus Vargas for a wonderful afternoon the show was very entertaining I will return the next time you're in town again thank you

Really nice circus. The clows is really funny and the circus is very interactive. The place is clean and the performers are talented and very nice. Kids would love it. The popcorn is nice and the show is amazing. Will definitely watch again! read more

We got free tickets for the whole family through Big Brothers Big sisters of San Luis Obispo otherwise the cost would have been prohibitive. Not to mention the $8 shaved ice and all the glowing swords they constantly walk around trying to sell you. They did a pre-show where all the kids from the audience got in the ring and did hula hoops and balancing tricks. Last time we went they had a family who rode motor cycles and did amazing tricks in a giant cage. That appears to have been replaced by "magic" act. As an adult the act is totally lame, if you don't sit right in front where the main entrance is than you get the side view, which they took absolutely no care to make sure saw what the tricks were even about. Otherwise he basically covered each trick up with large scarfs and did them behind curtains. The kids liked it but otherwise... The only good "magic" act was the "quick change", where they dance around the stage, and change their outfits at a ridiculous rate. The kids totally loved it. The husband and I enjoyed it. As long as we can get in free or very reduced we will come back again, otherwise they'll have to switch things up to make it worth it. read more

I tried to go for years after seeing The tent displayed on the Madonna Inn grounds girls several years.... When I finally went in 2017 this last year Was so disappointed... alot of dancing around in one spot trying to make it seem like it's full show but not alot of acrobat acts... mostly dancing around and jokes.. the bikes were pretty good in the ball .... was ok but left feeling like i wasted money.... A lot of empty seats.. treat but Trying to make plans for this summer we definately won't be going to this again... read more

Circus Vargas is a yearly even with the family. This year it was Pirate themed. Some of the acts change from year to year, but they do have their staples. This year they added a 'boxing training' skit...that they should have left out of the program. It was a total waste of about 8 minutes. Other than that, the circus was really good family entertainment. read more