Circus and Culture: A Sarasota Day Adventure

April 8th, 2025 (Tuesday)

Join CWC for a thoughtfully curated itinerary that blends Sarasota’s circus heritage, vibrant cultural history, and delicious cuisine for a day you won’t forget!

PRICING:

$350 per person (includes $100 tax-deductible donation)

Please email office@chautauquawomensclub.org with any questions.

what's included:

  • Trolley transportation 
  • Private tour of Sarasota Circus Museum
  • Lunch at the Ringling Grillroom
  • Newtown Alive Tour
  • Speaker at Bookstore1Sarasota
  • Drinks and Hors d’oeuvres at Rose and Ivy
  • $100 Donation to CWC (Tax-Deductible)

What to Bring:

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking.

Tour ITINERARY:

10:00AM

Meet at Bookstore1Sarasota

Kick off the day at Bookstore1Sarasota, where we’ll gather and get ready for an exciting journey through Sarasota’s rich circus history and cultural heritage.

10:15AM

Board the Trolley with Pedro Reis

Hop on the trolley with Pedro Reis, Founder of The Circus Arts Conservatory and former trapeze artist! Pedro will share fascinating insights about Sarasota’s circus legacy as we make our way to the Sarasota Circus Museum.

10:30AM

Sarasota Circus Museum Tour

Arrive at the Sarasota Circus Museum at The Ringling, where Pedro will lead us on a private, guided tour of an incredible collection of circus history.

12:30PM

Lunch at The Ringling Grillroom

Enjoy a delicious lunch at The Ringling Grillroom, located on the museum grounds. During the meal, Pedro will stay with us for an informal Q&A, offering even more behind-the-scenes circus stories and answering all your questions. 

Click HERE to view the lunch menu. We will ask for your selection at registration.

*Dining area is located upstairs – no elevator available*

2:00PM

New Town Alive Tour

Reboard the trolley for a special tour of the African American neighborhood in Sarasota, known as Newtown Alive.

4:00PM

Shopping in Downtown Sarasota

Enjoy an hour of shopping in Downtown Sarasota, where you’ll find unique boutiques and stylish shops for every taste.

5:00PM

Bookstore1Sarasota

Return to Bookstore1Sarasota for the launch of Liz Walker’s book “No One Left Alone: A Story Of How Community Helps Us Heal.” Liz Walker will be in conversation with fellow author and Emmy-winning journalist, Charlayne Hunter-Gault. Their conversation will be followed by a Q&A and book signing.

6:15PM

Drinks and Hors d’oeuvres at Rose and Ivy

End the day with a glass of wine and appetizers at Rose and Ivy, where we’ve reserved the cozy outdoor patio.