A Very Merry Circus Christmas: Circus-Themed Movie Marathon

1. The Greatest Showman

Starring Hugh Jackman, Zac Efron and Zendaya, The Greatest Showman is a big, colourful, unforgettable musical for the whole family. The film is inspired by the story of P.T. Barnum, the Barnum & Bailey circus, and the many talented performers who made the circus what it was. You’ll be humming the hit song “This Is Me” for days after you watch it!

2. The Greatest Show On Earth

Set in the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, this 1952 drama tells the story of competing trapeze artists. The movie was quite the production, featuring real performances by famous artists, and the real Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey's Circus’ troupe, which include 1,400 people, hundreds of animals, and 60 railroad cars of equipment.

3. Water For Elephants

This one might be a tearjerker! Based on the novel by Sara Gruen, this romantic drama stars Reese Witherspoon, Robert Pattinson and Christoph Waltz. Water For Elephants tells the story of a young veterinary student who joins a traveling circus during the Great Depression, and falls in love with the cruel circusmaster’s wife.

4. Dumbo

How could we not include this classic? (Another tearjerker). This 1941 animated Disney film tells the story of Dumbo, a young circus elephant who is teased for his enormous ears but eventually learns to fly.

Bonus! Why not make the most of winter nights in to snuggle up with a good book? In keeping with the circus theme, here are a few of our top recommendations:

1. If I Ran the Circus by Dr. Seuss

Published in 1956, this whimsically illustrated storybook will leave you wondering just what would happen if you were in charge of a whole entire circus.

2. Paddington Bear at the Circus by Michael Bond

Another perfect picture book for young readers tells the story of Paddington’s very first visit to a carnival.

3. The Tumbling Turner Sisters by Juliette Fay

Set in 1919 in the world of American Vaudeville, this historical fiction novel tells the story of a family facing hardship and taking on adventures.

4. Pantomime by Laura Lam

This fantasy novel tells the story of Gene, who is hiding both their intersex identity and magical abilities and runs away to join a circus that is both beautiful and dark.

Let us know what you watched and read over the break, and let us know if you have another favourite book or movie about the wonderful world of circus.

Happy Christmas and best wishes for a happy, healthy new year!