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Parent-to-Parent Review: Marinelli Bros. Circus Fun

A candid look at this local circus experience from one parent to another

By Shayla Halbersma July 16, 2025


We just got back from a fun outing at the Marinelli Bros. Circus with my two kids, and we had such a great time! You can spot their signature blue tent tucked behind the Camarillo Outlets, with parking available off Camarillo Center Drive. It’s easy to find and makes for a convenient location if you’re looking to turn it into a full day with shopping or a treat after the show.

We attended the 2:30 p.m. performance. Since it was an afternoon show, it was a bit warm inside the tent, but not too uncomfortable. The tent itself is on the smaller side, which we actually appreciated. It made everything feel closer and more personal, like you were truly part of the show instead of watching from far away. 


Shayla's family did received free tickets to the show in exchange for this article, but all thoughts and opinions are her own.






They had a face painting station, a souvenir booth with light-up toys, and classic concession foods like hot dogs, popcorn, cotton candy, snow cones, and drinks. Vendors also walked through the audience before the show and during intermission offering snacks and treats, which made things much easier than standing in line with two small children.




The performance began with some of the lighter acts and gradually built up to more thrilling stunts, keeping the kids engaged throughout. One of the biggest highlights was Lucky the Clown. He made several appearances and had both of my kids laughing with his silly antics and fun audience participation. He really knows how to read the crowd and keep things moving. It's clear he’s a pro at keeping kids entertained without overwhelming them, which as a parent, I really appreciated.




The acts themselves included a magician, jugglers, aerialists, and trampoline acrobats, each with their own moment to shine. The pacing of the show was great and any transition period was filled by Lucky. The show built up to the grand finale, the Wheel of Steel. It was thrilling to watch, and there were definitely a few suspenseful moments that had the entire audience holding their breath. Through it all, the performers remained calm, focused, and incredibly professional. Even during the more intense stunts, they kept the show flowing and had everyone completely locked in.




Overall, this was a fun, memorable experience for our family. It’s a great choice for parents looking for something kid-friendly and affordable that still brings a sense of wonder and excitement. I’d definitely recommend checking it out if the Marinelli Bros. Circus before it leaves the area on July 28th. Tickets range from $15 to $55 and you can purchase them at https://marinellibroscircus.com/.