Wolf Trap: Omnium Circus

Wolf Trap: Omnium Circus

If you haven't been to Wolf Trap's Theatre-in-the-Woods, this week's Omnium Circus show is a great reason to go. The theater is tucked into the woods inside Wolf Trap National Park in Vienna, VA, about 30 minutes from DC. Wooden benches are set into a shaded hillside under the trees, and it honestly feels like a different world out there, especially for a show that's completely free.

Omnium Circus is an inclusive circus company, meaning their performers include people with and without disabilities. You'll see acrobats, aerialists, clowns, and live musicians all working together. It's the kind of show that catches kids' attention right away, and it also quietly shows them something about what people can do regardless of ability. The performance runs about 45 minutes, which is just right for younger kids who might not sit through anything longer.

Gates open at 10am, and the show starts at 10:30. No tickets are required. It's first come, first served, and seating is on wooden benches built into the hillside. Bring a blanket or cushion if you want your kids to be more comfortable. There's a small gift shop and a snack bar near the entrance, so you can grab something before or after. This is part of Wolf Trap's free summer children's performance series, which runs through the season with different acts every week. After the show, take some time to walk the trails around the park. The kids will want to run around, and there's plenty of space for it. Just give yourself a few extra minutes for the walk between the parking lot and the theater.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓Gates open at 10am. Get there early for the best seats on the hillside. The front rows fill up fast.
• ✓The theater is shaded by trees, but bring sunscreen anyway. You'll be outside for a while between arrival and the end of the show.
• ✓Bring a blanket or cushion for the wooden benches. They're fine for adults, but little ones appreciate something softer to sit on.
• ✓Pack snacks and water. There's a snack bar on site, but having your own saves time and keeps hungry kids happy.
• ✓Allow extra time for the walk from the parking lot to the theater. It's a bit of a hike, especially with small children.