El Zagal Shrine Circus in Town

The Shrine Circus is leaving audience members saying elephants, tigers, and bears… oh my.

Families and friends watch the 64th annual show right here in Fargo.

Lights are waving in the air and the performers are stepping up in the Fargodome.

Ringmaster Justin Loomis remembers always being ready for the big show.

“I remember when I was five years old I told my parents I wanted to be the ringmaster and that’s what I ended up doing,” says Loomis.

He announces each act from performers twirling fire, walking bears, and even high flying motorcyclists.

“I don’t think there is any place in the country right now that is running two motorcycles in the same fashion that we are,” says El Zagal Potentate Matt Sturlaugson.

Motorcycles are a newer addition to the show, but they still include the classic circus animals.

While families take pictures with a bear, some say their favorite part about the circus is that it’s a family tradition.

“Well my family was in the circus business so growing up my whole life I was always around the circus and I just fell in love with it as a little kid,” says Loomis.

“It’s always been a family tradition when I was growing up so we are just trying to keep it alive,” says Trisha Fraase of West Fargo.

The performers are also trying to keep the audience alive.

“After the show when you see all of the kids leaving and they are smiling and happy and everyone loves it then I feel like I’ve done my job right,” says Loomis.

The performers say there’s no business like show business, and that’s what keeps people coming back each year.

Tickets are $14 for general admission and $17 for reserved seating the day of purchase.

The circus has showings Sunday at noon and 4 p.m.