Truckee River Regional Park
At their height, circuses were a cultural heartbeat. They drew people out of their homes, brought communities together, and dazzled audiences with extraordinary displays of artistry and skill.
Today, circuses still exist, but they no longer hold the same cultural weight, especially the traditional traveling shows. Modern technology and the rise of endless on demand entertainment compete for our attention, while growing concerns over animal treatment have also dimmed their appeal. Yet, for all the options we now carry in our pockets, nothing truly replaces the intangible magic of stepping beneath the big top.
The Zoppe Family Circus captures that magic in a way that feels timeless. This old-world style performance evokes the same enchantment I felt as a child while embodying everything that makes a show unforgettable: talent, passion, dedication, storytelling, inclusivity, creativity, and a whimsical atmosphere that stirs every sense.
Over the past three shows, the Zoppe family has transported me into a world of wonder and imagination. Their commitment to introducing new acts and fresh twists, while staying true to tradition, is a rare dedication that shines through. My own childhood memories of the circus continue to glow in adulthood, and it’s a joy to watch my children experience the same sense of enchantment.
The Zoppe Circus traces its history back to 1842 and has spanned seven generations. What sets them apart is how beautifully they preserve tradition, passing down not only skills, but also knowledge and a deep love for the circus arts. Their story is one of resilience, creativity, and family passion carried forward through time.
I wrote this piece to connect with fellow circus enthusiasts and to extend my support to the Zoppe family, who so clearly love what they do. May they continue to share their artistry and carry the magic of the circus for generations to come.
Kat
5 Reasons to Visit the Zoppe Circus
1. Traditional Charm
The Zoppe Circus embraces the timeless charm and nostalgia of trandtional circus entertainement. If you appreciate the classic arts, intimate setting, and the magic of a bygone era, attending the Zoppe Circus allows you to take a step back in time and relive the wonder of old-world circus performances.
2. Family-Friendly Entertainment
The Zoppe Circus offers an unforgettable experience suitable for all ages, making it an ideal opportunity to create lasting memories with your loved ones.
3. Close-Up Experience
Performances are held under a big top tent that's much smaller than what you'd find at commericial shows. This setting usually allows for a more immersive experience and allows for more crowd participation, allowing for audeinces to connect better with the show.
4. Cultural Heritage
The Zoppe Circus is a celebration of Italian circus heritage and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Attending the circus provides a unique opportunity to appreciate and learn about this rich cultural heritage.
5. Unique & Diverse Acts
What truly warms my heart about the Zoppe Circus is that it's a family affair, where acts are skillfully performed by individuals of all ages. Here, you'll also encounter animals as part of the show. In today's world, the use of animals in circuses often draws criticism, but rest assured, the animals in this show receive exceptional care and contribute to some truly impressive & entertaining acts & tricks.
Notes + Tips*Save Money with Online Tickets: Purchase your tickets online to enjoy savings. Children aged 3 and under get in for free. Don't miss out on their presale ticket deals. Also available, a family pack for 2 adults & 2 children at a great price.*General Admission vs. VIP: Choose between General Admission (GA) and VIP seating. GA offers bleacher seats, while VIP seats are just two rows in front of the performers, providing more space and backrest chairs. Given the intimate size of our show, you can't go wrong with any seat choice. VIP seats are assigned upon check-in out front.*Cash for Conveniences: Bring cash for popcorn, souvenirs, and crepes. Cards accepted with a $3 transaction fee.*Arrive Early for Preshow: Arrive a bit early and position yourself between the two smaller tents out front. This is where the preshow takes place, providing an introduction to the company with a delightful skit. Being up front ensures you can hear and see the performers.*Convenient, Free Parking: Parking is available in a dirt lot across the street from the tent, and it's free of charge.*Photography and Video Allowed: Feel free to capture memories with photography & video during the performance, but please always be considerate of those around you.*Intermission: There's a break approximately half way through the show. During intermission, you will be invited to take a souvenir picture with one of their animals, purchase souvenirs, grab something to eat, and get face paint for an additional fee.
*Refreshments for a Good Cause: The circus offers lemonade, popcorn, chocolate & strawberry crepes, and hot cocoa for sale. While their food may seem a bit pricey, please know that the proceeds support the incredible Zoppe family. Menu may vary from year to year.*No Pressure Sales: I love that the Zoppe family does not pressure you to purchase food, souvenirs, or extras.*Friendly and Approachable: The Zoppe family is kind & approachable. Don't hesitate to strike up a conversation or ask for a photo.*Convenient Facilities: There are portable toilets located out front for your convenience. Before attempting to wash your hands, make sure the station has water. I found myself with soap on my hands without any water to rinse it off with. Hand sanitizer is always good to have on hand.
