SW Wisconsin News

After over a decade of contributing to the organization of the Big Top Parade, Scott O’Donnell will lead this year's event as grand marshal. O'Donnell, who completed his second term at Circus World last fall, has been instrumental in coordinating parade entries and establishing the order since his return in 2013. On June 14, he will have the honor of riding as grand marshal.

Nanci Jenks, co-chair of the parade committee, remarked, “After all these years setting up the parade, it’ll be great to see Scott get a chance to enjoy the ride.”

The Ringling Brothers' hometown annually celebrates its circus heritage with a traditional parade through downtown Baraboo. This year’s event is scheduled for Flag Day and will feature a patriotic theme with more than 75 entries anticipated. These include historic Circus World wagons, marching bands, and community floats.

“The American circus has celebrated patriotism since its inception,” O’Donnell stated. “For more than a century, circus parades have draped themselves in red, white and blue.”

O’Donnell initially joined Circus World as operations manager in 2003 before advancing to vice president and general manager of The Big Apple Circus. He later worked with Live Nation before returning to lead Circus World again in 2013.

George Althoff, executive director of the Chamber, commented on O'Donnell's appointment as grand marshal: “It couldn’t be more fitting to honor Scott’s years of service to Circus World and to our parade by naming him grand marshal.”

The parade will commence at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 14 and is part of a weekend filled with circus-themed activities in Baraboo. That evening at the Al. Ringling Theatre there will be a screening of Tim Burton's film "Big Fish," featuring O'Donnell's circus involvement followed by a talkback session led by him.

Circus festivities begin Thursday, June 12 with Professor Stich’s Original Circus Band performing at Concerts on the Square and continue Friday night when Charlie Chaplin’s film “The Circus” is shown accompanied by music from the Barton organ.

Further updates on the parade and related events can be found at bigtopparade.com.