CFA About Us

    Welcome to the wonderful world of the circus and the official website of the Circus Fans Association of America (CFA). We are one of the leading circus-enthusiast organizations in the world, with members from throughout the USA and abroad. Our goal is to support the circus in all its many fabulous forms--whether it appears under a big top, in an arena, in a stadium, or anywhere "children of all ages" gather for one of America's greatest cultural institutions.

    The preamble to our constitution sums up what we're all about: "…to preserve for future generations this beloved American institution known as the circus…." And since 1926, that's been our mission and the sheer fun of being a Circus Fan. Our members come from all walks of life, and many are active or former circus personnel. We are much more than a hobby organization; here you'll make friends for life and share a special perspective on a unique entertainment enterprise.

    The circus is one of the few family-friendly attractions around. It appeals to all age groups. In fact, be sure to check out our special website, www.circus4youth.com, designed for our younger members and devoted to the many youth circuses, training academies, and camps that pass down the circus arts to next generations.

    So what's involved in being a Circus Fan? For members of the CFA, the circus is a year-round activity. When we're not visiting a show in person, we're following circus news and trends as part of a local "Tent" or a regional "Top," all of which--in various areas of the country--enjoy their own social activities. Once a year, we gather as a group for a national convention, held in a different city each time. Most recently, we had a great time in Las Vegas, and next year we'll be meeting at Grand Rapids in my home state of Michigan. Past conventions have taken us to Florida's circus city, Sarasota, to Milwaukee in the rich circus-history state of Wisconsin, to exciting Hershey, Pennsylvania, and many other fun locations.

    We keep in touch through this website and our wonderful magazine, the White Tops, which arrives at your home every other month. Packed with news, photos, features, show reviews, and much more, it's free with your annual paid CFA membership.

    A special part of our involvement is lending a hand to circus people. Whether it's guiding them to services they need when their show plays our hometowns, educating the public about the many contributions of the circus to American culture, or supporting the circus industry in general, we are there for this special world of traveling performers--and yes, its animals, too. We love the awesome elephants, big cats, handsome horses, and other animals that remain an important, well-cared-for part of circus tradition.

    Join us! Signing up for membership is quick, easy, and convenient. Just click on the "Join Today" link at the top left of this page. United by a deep love and respect for the art of the circus, we plan in the months and years ahead to be even more visible as a truly national group…to develop closer friendships with each other and circus people everywhere…and to strengthen our Circus Fans community.

    I think you'll have a great time getting to know us and the great world of circus people. We'll be looking for your membership!

Pat Pagel, President 2009-10

Welcome to CFA's Official Website

A Letter from our President - Pat Pagel, CFA President 2009-2010