This Week in History

Keeping with tradition, Philips Arena welcomes the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus this week. The Circus typically comes to Philips Arena mid-February for two weeks of fun-filled shows. To celebrate this long-established event, here are some fun facts about the “Greatest Show on Earth!”

Did you know…

• There were seven Ringling Brothers – Gus, Alf, Al, Charles, John, Otto, and Henry


• In 1889 the cost of admission was $0.50 for adults and $0.25 for children


• The Ringling Bros. purchased the Barnum & Bailey Circus, their largest competitor, in 1907


• The two shows toured separately until 1919


• The legendary King Tusk wore a robe that weighed 1,200 pounds and required 12 attendants


• In 1995 the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Center for Elephant Conservation® was established in central Florida in dedication to the conservation, breeding and understanding of the Asian Elephant

Tickets are still available! Click here for schedule information and tickets: http://www.ticketmaster.com/venueartist/114689/1262563