Peru, Circus City Festival
When I told my family I was moving to Peru, the first thing that came to mind is the South American country, But for Indiana residents they know it to be the Circus Capital. There is some amazing history here in this small town of 11,417 residents. The Circus City Festival Inc was founded to Bring back the rich circus heritage in 1960.
"Dating back to the late 1800s, many of the country’s most famous circuses winter-quartered only a few miles southeast of Peru. That area is now home to the famous International Circus Hall of Fame." - Circus City Festival Inc
Once a year in the month of July, around two hundred young people (ages range from 7 to 21 years) put on a sensational amateur circus. I had the pleasure of watching this show and I was amazed at the talent these performers had. From Highwire, to juggling I was really impressed! I couldn't look away as I witnessed young women hanging from their hair!
IT WAS ANYTHING, BUT AMATEUR !
People come from all over to partake in this eight day event! The entire downtown shuts down for what we call "Circus week". its basically a community carnival focused on celebrating the circus. With tryouts around the corner I thought I would post some photos I took of this event from last year. If you are ever in the area and have not yet seen this festival, You must come and whitness the pride this town has for its Circus.