The Great Wallace Ring of the Circus Model Builders

About the Event

Step right up to the enchanting world of miniatures at The Great Wallace Ring of the Circus Model Builders, a captivating three-day exhibition held July 16-18, 2026, at the International Circus Hall of Fame in Peru, Indiana. This family-friendly spectacle showcases the intricate artistry of circus model builders from the Great Wallace Ring, bringing the magic of the big top to life in stunning scale replicas of tents, wagons, performers, and daring acts. What makes it special is the sheer wonder of these handcrafted treasures—meticulous works of wood, metal, and plastic that capture the golden age of circuses, sparking joy and nostalgia for all ages. Attendees rave about the whimsical atmosphere, where the air hums with stories of sawdust and spotlights, inviting you to marvel at creativity that shrinks epic spectacles into tabletop triumphs. It's a delightful escape that celebrates imagination, perfect for families seeking fun, interactive inspiration under one historic roof. ## The Surrounding Area
Nestled in charming Peru, Miami County, known as the Circus Capital of the World, this event unfolds amid a rich tapestry of circus heritage along the scenic Mississinewa River. Peru's small-town vibe, with its 11,000 friendly residents, feels like a living postcard—tree-lined streets, welcoming locals, and echoes of legendary circuses like the Hagenbeck-Wallace, founded right here by Benjamin E. Wallace in 1884. Nearby attractions include the expansive International Circus Hall of Fame itself, featuring five National Historic Landmark buildings packed with artifacts, costumes, posters, and vintage wagons from the original winter quarters. Explore the Peru Amateur Youth Circus during summer weeks, or unwind with riverside camping, boating, swimming, and fishing on-site. Dining options abound with cozy diners serving hearty Hoosier fare like tenderloins, pies, and farm-fresh meals, plus ice cream stands evoking carnival treats. This corner of Indiana blends history, nature, and community spirit, making it an irresistible hub for visitors craving authentic Midwestern magic. ## Activities & Attractions
Dive into a treasure trove of circus model wonders with displays of finely crafted miniatures—elaborate big tops, parade wagons, acrobats mid-flip, and animal acts frozen in time, all built from humble materials sparked by old photos or pure fancy. Families will love hands-on activities designed especially for kids, like guided tours sparking creative play, model-building demos where builders share tips, and interactive exhibits letting little ones touch replicas and dream up their own circuses. Wander the Circus Model Builders Museum and Hall of Fame for inducted masterpieces, plus the hall's broader collection of posters, films, and artifacts. Food vendors tempt with classic fair bites—cotton candy, popcorn, hot dogs, and refreshing lemonades—to fuel your adventure. Performances might include live storytelling of circus lore, while competitions or judging spotlight top builders. It's pure, joyful exploration that turns passive viewing into active family bonding. ## Schedule & Logistics
Plan for a seamless experience from Thursday, July 16, to Saturday, July 18, 2026, with the exhibition open daily during museum hours (typically 10 AM to 4 PM, aligning with the Hall of Fame's Wednesday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday schedule—confirm for special event extensions). Kick off each morning with fresh displays and builder meet-and-greets, building to afternoon highlights like demos and family activities; evenings may wrap with casual fare and lingering chats. Admission is affordably welcoming: $5 for adults, $2.50 for kids under 12, with free entry for military—pure value for endless fun. Parking is plentiful on the historic grounds, and on-site camping along the river offers electric hookups for $25/night or primitive sites at $12, blending convenience with adventure (reservations recommended via phone). Easy access from major roads makes it a breeze for day trippers or weekend warriors. ## History & Heritage
Rooted in Peru's legendary circus legacy, The Great Wallace Ring of the Circus Model Builders honors the town's founder, Benjamin E. Wallace, who launched his menagerie here in 1884 on land bought from Miami Indian Chief Gabriel Godfroy. Wallace's operation grew into the mighty Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus, second only to Ringling, wintering elephants, lions, and tigers on these very grounds until the 1930s. The International Circus Hall of Fame, established in 1959 amid revived circus festivals, preserves this era in its 1922-built structures—now home to the Circus Model Builders Museum and Hall of Fame. Named for Wallace, the Ring brings model enthusiasts together to preserve this Americana craft, evolving from local passion into an annual highlight that draws fans nationwide. Its significance? It keeps Peru's circus soul alive, inspiring youth programs like the Amateur Youth Circus and fostering community pride in a heritage that launched stars and captivated generations.