World Circus Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about World Circus Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. World Circus Day is observed on April 17th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of World Circus Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as important facts you might want to know about World Circus Day.

📅 What day is World Circus Day 2024?

In 2024, World Circus Day is on Monday, April 17th. It is the 3rd Monday in April; in 2024, it is Wednesday. There are until the next observance. You also can view all intriguing details and facts about April 17, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Every year, on April 17th, the world comes together to celebrate World Circus Day. This special occasion aims to pay tribute to the visionaries, performers, and artists of the circus industry. It highlights the significance of circus art as a popular and global form of entertainment, while also raising awareness about the hard work and dedication of those involved. World Circus Day serves as a platform for these individuals to showcase their talents, attract audiences, secure funding, and make a mark in the entertainment industry. Whether they are seasoned professionals or up-and-coming talents, this day is a recognition of their commitment and skill. Circus art is not as easy as it may seem, it requires years of practice and dedication. Today, we celebrate and honor their contributions to the world of arts.

📜 World Circus Day History

The contemporary circus era began in the 18th century when Philip Astley established an amphitheater in London and performed horse riding stunts in front of an audience. He called this performance area the “Circle,” which eventually became known as the “Circus.” Joseph Grimaldi became the first popular clown in 1781, known for his roles in plays like “The Triumph of Mirth” and “Harlequin’s Wedding.” Astley later expanded his circus to France and created more circuses around Europe.

In the United States, John Bill Ricketts founded the first modern circus in 1793, known as the Circus of Pepin and Breschard. They traveled from Montreal to Havana. In 1835, Joshua Purdy introduced the use of a large tent as a permanent location for circus shows, and Thomas Taplin Cooke brought this concept to England, providing a more flexible and spacious gathering space.

In the 1970s, contemporary circuses gained popularity in Australia, Canada, France, and the United Kingdom. These circuses combined drama, stunts, and traditional circus acts to tell stories, influencing the modern circus we know today. It wasn’t until 2010, when Princess Stéphanie of Monaco designated April 17 as World Circus Day, that the art of the circus was officially recognized as a shared cultural heritage.

✅ World Circus Day Facts

🔖 Circo Atayde is the oldest-running circus
Circo Atayde was founded on August 26, 1888, and continues to be run by the Atayde family to this day.

🔖 Never whistle and eat peanuts backstage
Circus performers have a tradition where they avoid whistling or eating peanuts backstage, as it is believed to bring bad luck.

🔖 Juggling started in ancient civilizations
Juggling, one of the beloved circus skills, originated from the creativity of Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans.

👍 Why Is World Circus Day Important

The circus industry is vast, yet it is dispersed all across the world. The World Circus Day event brings together diverse circus communities from across the world in a single environment.

While the circus has long been a form of entertainment, few people are aware of its origins. World Circus Day brings these circus artists to the forefront, where their talents are acknowledged and honored as a real art form.

Attending these circus events aids these performers in raising funds for future shows. The more money they earn, the more likely it is that they will be able to obtain better equipment, larger venues, and enhance their general working circumstances.

🙂 How To Observe World Circus Day

⚡ Travel to Catalonia

⚡ Attend the Folklife Festival
If you reside in the United States, one of the notable events to mark World Circus Day is the Smithsonian Folklife Festival held in Washington, D.C. This festival offers an exciting and captivating program that showcases various circus arts and stunt performances. It’s a perfect opportunity to have a thrilling experience with your loved ones.

⚡ Join fundraising events
Catalonia, Spain, has one of the largest World Circus Day festivities, with 50 acts often conducted in Sabadell, Tiana, Berga, Barcelona, Mataró, and other Catalan cities.

📅 When is World Circus Day?

You can view all 🔗 April holidays, including 🔗 Arts & Entertainment and other 🔗 Activities holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and fun facts about World Circus Day. So be sure to check back soon.