Back for a sixth time, the Carolina Circus Festival will return to Cary to promote the culture of circus. Held once again at Downtown Cary Park — and sponsored by Cary Magazine, Pura Vida Studio, Backwoods Orienteering Klub, One Tribe, and Elite Arts Physical Therapy — this mesmerizing free festival will feature circus wonder for all ages Saturday, September 13, from 3:30–9:30 p.m.
The annual celebration of arts and community, which welcomed over 10,000 attendees in 2024, will once again bring together a vibrant mix of performers, artists, and circus enthusiasts from across the region in support of mental health and suicide prevention in the movement community.
Performances run day to night and include breathtaking fire shows.
The festival has its roots in the deep history of circus performance as a source of entertainment and wonder. Under the stewardship of certified yoga and aerial instructor Alicia Calderwood, founder and owner of Pura Vida Studio and one of the co-founders and directors of Carolina Circus Festival, creativity and community will be celebrated in the form of both established and emerging artists.
Carolina Circus Festival aims to honor the circus tradition and provides a platform for artists, as Alicia has long maintained a passion for movement, performance, and mental health. From acrobats and jugglers to clowns and aerialists, the festival highlights a diverse array of talents that reflect the colorful tapestry of circus arts and reinforces the need for increased mental health awareness and advocacy.
Last year’s festival saw attendance of 10,000 people. This year, organizers are preparing for double that number.
Diverse performances throughout the day are suitable for all ages. Some of the main attractions include jaw-dropping ground aerobatics and breathtaking aerial, fire, and LED shows.
For those looking to dive deeper into the world of circus arts, the festival provides free hands-on workshops led by experienced performers. Participants can learn circus-related skills from certified instructors, making the experience enriching and enlightening for aspiring artists and curious attendees alike.
Creativity and community, and the rich culture of circus, will be celebrated by established and emerging artists in a variety of family-friendly performances.
The rain-or-shine festival is designed to be a family-friendly event, with activities for children and adults in a festive atmosphere that encourages families to come together and enjoy the day.
A variety of local vendors and food trucks will be present to provide delicious and varied food options, and unique handmade crafts will be available for purchase in the Arts Market in support of local businesses. Volunteer opportunities are also available to enhance community spirit.
Beyond the excitement and entertainment, the festival is rooted in a powerful mission to raise awareness and funds for mental health and suicide prevention. Alicia explains: “Every performance, every purchase, and every shared smile contributes to making a difference in the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges.”
Movement — especially through aerial and yoga — has been a powerful tool in Alicia’s healing journey. “I truly believe that movement can be a strong support for mental well-being for people of all ages and backgrounds,” she says. The festival serves as a platform to raise awareness, start important conversations, and provide resources.
A raffle benefiting the Sam Spurlock Mental Health Giving Fund, which will honor a fellow studio owner who lost her son, will be held at 7:30 p.m. All donations are tax deductible, and Carolina Circus Festival is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit event.
This year’s event promises even more intrigue. “Get ready to be dazzled by this year’s enchanting Magic and Mystery theme,” says Alicia. All aerial and roving performers will embody the theme through their music choices, costume design, and character work.
Alicia continues: “Each act will be thoughtfully crafted to evoke a sense of wonder, enchantment, or intrigue — whether through mystical storytelling, illusion-inspired movement, or whimsical fantasy elements.”
The Carolina Circus Festival is a must-visit event for anyone interested in the performing arts or looking for a fun-filled day with family and friends. Whether you’re a circus aficionado or a curious newcomer, the 2025 Carolina Circus Festival promises an exhilarating experience that celebrates the magic of the circus.
“Don’t miss this unforgettable day of thrills, laughter, and circus inspiration!” says Alicia. “Come for the fun — stay for the impact. Let’s lift each other up one flip, twist, and moment of joy at a time.”
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@carolinacircusfestival
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