Circuses have returned to Sarasota.

Last year, no shows were able to run due to the Covid-19 pandemic, making this year's performances all that more exciting. This weekend, you can attend two: one at the John and Mable Ringling Museum and one at the Robarts Arena.

The 2021 “Summer Circus Spectacular” in the Historic Asolo Theater at the Ringling began Friday and goes until Aug. 14. This is an annual tradition in partnership with the Circus Arts Conservatory.

“This year’s lineup of performers is incredible,” says Jennifer Mitchell, executive vice president of the Circus Arts Conservatory. “It has several elements: comedy, excitement, daredevilry. We have one of the world's greatest aerialists that comes to us from Cirque Du Soleil.” Featured performers include ringleader Jared Walker, comic Mr. Robb, acrobat Darren Trull, juggler Noel Aguilar, contortionist Elayne Kramer and the Valla-Bertini family of acrobatic cyclists. Run time for the performance is about an hour. Tickets are $18 for adults and $12 for kids.

And this weekend only, the Loomis Bros. Circus is coming to the Robarts Arena. Its spectacle will include “fearless aerialists, thrilling acrobats, exotic performing animals, wacky clowns, beautiful show ponies, unique specialty acts and live music from The Loomis Bros. Orchestra,” according to publicity materials. The show will be led by ringmaster Justin Loomis. Tickets are $25 for adults, but each adult ticket includes free admission for two children. Each additional child will cost $8 per ticket. Times vary, with one afternoon and one evening show each day. If you miss the performances in Sarasota, the circus will be performing in Palmetto, Kissimmee, Port Charlotte and Arcadia in the coming weeks.