Evansville, Indiana Hadi Shrine Circus Retires Elephants After Nearly 90 Years

The Hadi Shriners held a special media conference to announce some important changes to the Hadi Shrine Circus.

Evansville Tradition Since 1933

Billed as 'The Last Great American Circus' the Hadi Shrine Circus has entertained generations of Evansville area families.

Evansville Mayor Stephanie Terry was on hand to congratulate the Shriners on the 90th celebration of the circus. She said that her family has fond memories of the circus through the years. The coloring book is one of their traditional mementos.

No More Performing Elephants

Every year as a child I would look forward to riding on an elephant at the circus. There will not be any elephants performing at this year's Hadi Shrine Circus. The Shriners cite the age of the elephants and travel issues as what led to this decision.

In recent years, the circus has had animal advocates protesting the animal acts. The Shriners say the decision was not based on pressure from animal advocates. We can still expect to see humanely trained animals performing, just not the elephants.

 Hadi Shriners Move to Modernize Circus

Shriners Hospitals for Children

• Provide the highest quality care to children with neuromusculoskeletal conditions, burn injuries, and other special healthcare needs within a compassionate, family-centered and collaborative care environment.

• Provide for the education of physicians and other healthcare professionals.

• Conduct research to discover new knowledge that improves the quality of care and quality of life of children and families.

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Hadi Shrine Circus Ticket Office
(812) 425-4376
1 (800) 66-CLOWN

Hadi Shrine Temple
6 Walnut Street, Evansville, IN 47708