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About the Circus Ring of Fame
If you've been exploring Sarasota homes for sale, you'll quickly learn about the area's unique connection to the circus industry. The city of Sarasota was the winter home of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus and continues to carry on a rich circus tradition today.
Our real estate agents love sharing the details of the Sarasota area's history and helping new residents connect with the local culture. One of our favorite area attractions is the Circus Ring of Fame.
A Long-Standing Circus Tradition
In celebration of the area's long-standing circus heritage, the Circus Ring of Fame was constructed in St. Armand's Circle in 1987. Each year, the public nominates new potential Circus Ring of Fame inductees. They're voted on by former inductees and members of the global Circus Advisory Council. The winners are honored with a bronze wagon wheel plaque, which is added to the Circus Ring of Fame.
2021 Inductions
The 2021 winners include "Galaxy Girl" Tina Winn, "King of the Highwire" Nik Wallenda, and circus performers George Carden, Willie Edelson, and the Richter/Casselley Families.
These new inductees will join 150 other members that have been honored each year since the Circus Ring of Fame began. While the induction ceremony is typically scheduled for mid-January each year, the 2021 ceremony has been rescheduled for the first quarter of 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Visit the Circus Ring of Fame
The Circus Ring of Fame is located in the central park in St. Armands Circle. Visitors are free to explore the area, taking time to read the plaques and appreciate these many circus greats. Some of the plaques you'll find there include circus greats P.T. Barnum, John Ringling, and the astounding aerialists, the Flying Wallendas.
Other circus greats that were previously inducted include famous clowns Emmett Kelley and Lou Jacobs, renowned animal trainer Gunther Gebel-Williams, and aerialist Lillian Wetzel.
While you're in the area, you may want to expand the circus experience even further by visiting the Circus Museum, located on the grounds of Sarasota's Ringling Museum. The Ca' d'Zan, which is the stunning former home of circus titan John Ringling and his wife Mable, is also worth a visit. You won't want to miss these exciting and unique local destinations.
About St. Armands Circle
There's a lot to love about visiting St. Armand's Circle! Not only is it home to the Circus Ring of Fame, but it's also one of Sarasota's best places to enjoy an exceptional array of restaurants, retail shops, salons and spas, and more. The area is known for its upscale yet casual elegance. It's the ideal place to shop for jewelry, clothing, artwork, home decor, and more.
While you're exploring St. Armands Circle, plan to pay a visit to The Columbia Restaurant. This popular hotspot has been a staple in Sarasota since 1959 and is now the city's oldest restaurant.
Other well-known dining establishments in St. Armands circle include Tommy Bahama Restaurant and Bar, Speaks Clam Bar, ChaCha Coconuts, and the Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar. Each offers a unique experience.
Find Your Dream Home Today!
If you've been looking at Sarasota or Bradenton homes for sale, the experts at Wagner Realty are here to help. Contact us today to discuss your goals and get started!