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 Big Top tent tucked into the parking lot of the Ventura County Fairgrounds. It's easy to find and makes for a convenient location if you're looking to turn it into a full day with a trip to the beach or a walk/bike ride after the show.
This year, the circus is back with a brand-new production called "A New Experience" — and it delivers exactly that. The show runs April 3–12, so there's still time to catch it!
We attended the 2:30 p.m. performance. The Big Top tent itself has a cozy, intimate feel, 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.
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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.
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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 Matti 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.
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The acts themselves included a magician, jugglers, high-flying aerialists, aerial straps, trapeze, and trampoline acrobats, each with their own moment to shine. The Marinelli Brothers themselves were a standout — their athleticism, artistry, and charm have been wowing California audiences for years, and you can absolutely see why. The pacing of the show was great and any transition period was filled by Matti. The show built up to the grand finale, the Wheel of Danger. 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.
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Overall, this was a fun, memorable experience for our family. Whether you're reliving the magic of your childhood or sharing the excitement of the circus with your little ones for the first time, this show is designed to entertain and inspire. 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 out the Marinelli Bros. Circus before it leaves the area on April 12th. Tickets range from $20 to $70 (2 and under are free) and you can purchase them at https://marinellibroscircus.com/.
