California’s Own Big Top Circus is doing its part to help those hit hardest by the economic downturn and will allow those who are unemployed to bring their families at no charge to shows in Temecula and San Diego County.

"The economy has hurt so many people lately and has affected our business as well," said Nelson Quiroga, president of Circus Vargas. "As a family show, we are very sensitive to the economic situation and how it affects local residents. We know that many unemployed people can’t afford to take their families to entertainment events like Circus Vargas. We want to help them when they need help the most."

Free tickets can be received on the day of the show from the Circus Vargas ticket office. Patrons should bring their layoff notice from their job or a stub from their unemployment check to demonstrate that they are unemployed. Each person will receive four general admission tickets.

"Circus Vargas has presented more shows in California over the last 40 years than any other touring family show and this is one way we can give back to the people of California who have allowed us to prosper," says Quiroga.

Circus Vargas 2010 exemplifies circus as an art form, presenting the highest quality family entertainment. It unites skilled, serious performers with the innocence and Advertisement

[ Chatton and Associates ] silliness of comedic circus clowns – the kinds that actually cause laughter.

This latest edition of Circus Vargas bridges the gap between old tradition and modern innovation. And, the appreciation of circus fans old and new keeps the performers loving what they do at the shows.

Prior to every show, Jon Weiss will be front and center, welcoming the audience and inviting the children (of all ages) into center ring to feel what life is like under the Big Top.

Join the fun with Weiss as he guides everyone on a crash course in circus skills such as juggling, feather balancing and hula-hooping.

Circus Vargas blends an elegant display of strength, speed, grace and dexterity with an overall ambiance of humor, foolishness, and drollery. Mix in a little sawdust, some spotlights, beautiful music, and the intimacy and excitement of our brand-new Big Top and you have the magic recipe called Circus Vargas 2010.

The Temecula event will be held at the Promenade Temecula on Winchester Road and Ynez Road in the Macy’s parking lot. For more information and tickets, call (877) 468-3861 or visit www.circusvargas.org.

Show date and times

• March 25 – 7:30 p.m. (Opening night)

• March 26 – 4:30, 7:30 p.m.

• March 27 – 1:30, 4:30, 7:30 p.m.

• March 28 – 1:30, 4:30, 7:30 p.m.

• March 29 – 7 p.m.