New Animal-Free Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus Returns to Long Island, NYC Area in February, March 2026
ELMONT, NY – The reimagined Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus is returning to the New York metro area in early 2026, bringing its modern, theatrical arena production to venues easily accessible to Long Island audiences. With scheduled stops at UBS Arena and Barclays Center, families across Nassau and Suffolk counties will have multiple opportunities to experience the legendary brand’s long-awaited revival.
This new production, billed as The Greatest Show On Earth, marks a major shift from the traditional circus format, replacing animal acts with a high-energy showcase of acrobatics, aerial performances, music, comedy, and large-scale choreography.
A New Era for a Legendary Circus
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey was once a fixture on Long Island, remembered fondly by generations who attended shows at Nassau Coliseum, Madison Square Garden, and other regional venues. After a several-year hiatus, the circus has returned with a completely reimagined concept designed for modern audiences.
The 2026 production is:
- Animal-free, focusing entirely on human performance
- Fast-paced and theatrical, closer to a live arena spectacle than a traditional circus
- Family-friendly, while still appealing to adults who grew up with the brand
For many Long Islanders, this revival offers a rare blend of nostalgia and something entirely new.
Confirmed 2026 Dates and Locations
UBS Arena – Elmont, Long Island
The circus arrives on Long Island in March 2026, with a full weekend of performances scheduled at UBS Arena.
Confirmed dates:
- Friday, March 6, 2026 – Evening performance
- Saturday, March 7, 2026 – Multiple shows (morning, afternoon, and evening)
- Sunday, March 8, 2026 – Multiple shows (morning, afternoon, and evening)
These dates provide flexible options for families looking for daytime matinees as well as evening shows for older kids and adults.
Barclays Center – Brooklyn, NYC
For those willing to travel slightly west, Ringling Bros. also brings its production to Brooklyn just weeks earlier.
Confirmed dates:
- Thursday, February 19, 2026
- Friday, February 20, 2026
- Saturday, February 21, 2026
- Sunday, February 22, 2026
Barclays Center offers multiple daily performances during the run, making it another convenient option for Long Island residents, particularly those in western Nassau County.
What to Expect at the Show
This is not the circus many remember from decades past. Today’s Ringling Bros. production is designed as a fully immersive arena experience.
Audiences can expect:
- World-class acrobats and aerialists performing above and around the arena
- Choreographed performances combining music, lighting, and movement
- Comedy acts and interactive moments that engage the crowd
- A continuous, story-driven flow rather than isolated acts
The absence of animals allows the production to focus on athleticism, creativity, and visual spectacle.
Best Age Ranges and Audience Tips
The show is appropriate for all ages, but tends to resonate most strongly with:
- Children ages 4–12, who enjoy the visuals and energy
- Parents and grandparents, drawn by nostalgia
- Teens, who appreciate the athletic performances and staging
Daytime matinees are generally best for younger children, while evening shows offer a slightly more energetic atmosphere.
Getting There from Long Island
Both venues are well-connected for Long Island travelers.
UBS Arena (Elmont):
- Direct access via the LIRR Elmont–UBS Arena station
- Easy driving access from Nassau and western Suffolk counties
- On-site parking available with advance reservations recommended
Barclays Center (Brooklyn):
- Accessible via LIRR to Atlantic Terminal
- Multiple subway lines converge at the venue
- Convenient for western Long Island residents seeking an earlier February date
Major Winter Event for Long Island
Indoor, large-scale entertainment options are limited during the winter months, making the return of Ringling Bros. a standout seasonal attraction. Its multi-day runs, broad age appeal, and deep cultural recognition position it as one of the most significant family entertainment events of early 2026 for Long Island audiences.
For families looking to plan a winter outing, revisit a beloved tradition, or experience the circus in a completely new way, the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus offers one of the most polished and accessible live shows of the season.
Key Facts and Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus – The Greatest Show On Earth |
| Event Type | Live family entertainment / theatrical arena production |
| Format | Animal-free, modern circus with acrobatics, aerial acts, music, and comedy |
| Long Island Venue | UBS Arena |
| NYC Venue | Barclays Center |
| Barclays Center Dates | February 19–22, 2026 |
| UBS Arena Dates | March 6–8, 2026 |
| Showtimes | Multiple daily performances, including matinees and evening shows |
| Duration | Approximately 2 hours (with intermission) |
| Recommended Ages | Best for ages 4 and up; all ages welcome |
| Accessibility | Both venues offer accessible seating and accommodations |
| Season | Winter 2026 |
Official Ticket Links and Buying Tips
Tickets for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus should be purchased through authorized ticketing partners only to avoid inflated resale prices or invalid tickets.
Official Ticket Sources
- Ringling Bros. Official Website – primary tour information and venue links
- Venue Websites – UBS Arena and Barclays Center official event listings
- Ticketmaster – primary ticketing partner for both venues
Purchasing through these sources ensures valid entry and access to official seating charts, accessibility options, and venue policies.
Ticket Pricing and Seating Tips
Ticket prices vary based on venue, showtime, and seat location, but generally fall within these ranges:
- Upper-level seating: Lower-cost option with full-stage visibility
- Lower bowl seating: Best balance of price and proximity
- Floor or premium seating: Closest views of performers and aerial acts
Matinee performances are often more family-friendly and may offer better availability for groups with younger children.
Buying Tips for Long Island Families
- Buy early for weekend shows, especially Saturday matinees
- Compare both venues – Barclays Center dates in February may sell differently than UBS Arena dates in March
- Consider matinees for younger children and earlier end times
- Check parking and transit options before selecting seats, especially for evening performances
- Watch for official promotions or family offers closer to opening night
