The National Digest

Going Out: Animal-Free Circus Offers Big-top Fun

Created by former Ringling Bros. Ringmaster Kevin Venardos, The Venardos Circus makes its Wisconsin debut at West Towne Mall, 66 West Towne Mall, with showtimes Friday through Labor Day.

Step right up to West Towne Mall to see the Wisconsin debut of The Venardos Circus, a world-class animal-free circus under a custom-made big top tent. An assortment of aerial and acrobatic feats, juggling, contortion, comedy, daredevilry, magic, music and other features combines the circus tradition with Broadway. Meet the cast, snap selfies and play games at a pre-show party. Classic circus concessions are available to purchase. Show times are 6:30 p.m. Friday, Saturday, Wednesday, Thursday, Aug. 30-31; 12:30 and 3:30 p.m. matinees Saturday, Sunday, Aug. 31, and Sept. 1; noon and 3 p.m. matinees Sept. 2; and a sensory-friendly matinee 2 p.m. Aug. 30. Admission is $25/adults, $15/youth under 12, free for 24 months and younger with paying adult, and $35-$45/premium reserved seating.

Hobnob with friends and neighbors at Middleton Good Neighbor Festival 5 to 11:30 p.m. Friday, 8:30 a.m. to midnight Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday in Firemen’s Park, 7420 North Ave., Middleton. Family-friendly activities include live music and entertainment, midway and carnival, art show, 5K run, petting zoo, pickleball competition, laser tag, and food and beverages. The Wisconsin Remembers Memorial Exhibit will be displayed in Firemen’s Park 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday during the festival. The Festival parade steps off at noon Sunday on University Avenue in Middleton, turns north on Parmenter Street, and ends at Firemen’s Park.

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