Photo Gallery: Venardos Circus On Nantucket

The circus came to the island for the first time in years this weekend, as hundreds enjoyed the highflying entertainment under the big top at Tom Nevers field.

The “Stargazer Circus” was the largest fundraising event in the 124-year-history of the Maria Mitchell Association, and brought the Venardos Circus to Nantucket.

Founded by Kevin Venardos, who was once the youngest ringmaster in Ringling Bros. And Barnum & Bailey’s history, the Venardo Circus is in its 12th year traveling the country as “the little circus that could.” The performances featured traditional circus acts, including acrobats, balancing acts, trapeze artists, and more.

“Bringing this dream to life has been an adventure all its own,” said Maria Mitchell Association executive director Joanna Roche. “Over the past year, we coordinated more than 40 trucks aboard the Steamship Authority, navigated countless meetings and permits, searched the island's thrift shops for the perfect vintage treasures, handcrafted more than 75 crepe-paper flowers, and created every sign, illustration, and artistic detail you see around you. Countless hands, hearts, and hours came together with one goal: to create an unforgettable circus for our island.”

For ringmaster Kevin Venardos, staging the event on the island was extra special.

“For me personally, this visit carries special meaning because my daughters, Andi Lane (6) and Billie Mae (4), will spend part of their summer here on Nantucket, taking part in camp programs connected to this extraordinary community,” Venardos said.

Below are some photos taken by Charity Grace Mofsen over the weekend.