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The Big Top Fun
Returns in 2026!
Carnival Nights at Gilroy Gardens
Experience dazzling performances and fabulous fun for the whole family during Carnival Nights at Gilroy Gardens! Discover magic shows, juggling acts, balloon artists, carnival games, specialty food and drinks—and all your favorite rides lit up at night.
This enchanting evening experience has ended and will return in 2026. Admission is FREE for 2026 Gilroy Gardens Premium Members.
All water attractions and select rides are closed during Carnival Nights hours.
Big Top Fun for the Whole Family
- All your favorite rides lit up at night
- Live magic shows with Johnny Ace Palmer
- Juggling performances by Draco the Juggler
- Fun balloon twisting with Balloons by Daniel
- *NEW* Sips & Spirits Tasting Tour* with specialty cocktails and mocktails
- *NEW* Super Play Card* carnival game ticket bundle
- *NEW* Stilt walkers, bubble acts, roller skating*, and more
*Available for an additional fee
Carnival Nights Sips & Spirits Tasting Tour
Enjoy four specialty beverages (cocktails or mocktails) at unique “Speakeasy” locations throughout the park. Purchase your discounted voucher online, then go to the The Thirsty Ticket Tent redemption booth (near Castroville Corners) to start your tasting tour.
- The Twisted Zoo (inside Big Top Plaza)
- The Dizzy Mirror (near Panoramic Wheel)
- The Neon Electric (near Toy Soldier)
- The Magician’s Bar (near Lakeside Amphitheater)
After you’ve visited all four, you get to spin the Mystery Prize Wheel and see what you’ve won!
Super Play Card
Test your skills at all your favorite classic carnival games with four game plays at our Pitch ‘n’ Win Games!
Pick up your Super Play Card voucher online and save. Redeem vouchers at The Thirsty Ticket Tent redemption booth (near Castroville Corners).
Entertainment Schedule
From high-energy performances to jaw-dropping acts, there’s something happening around every corner. Read below to check out the performers we had for 2025!
- Johnny Ace Palmer
- Draco the Juggler
- WeFlip Entertainment
- Miss Molly Bubbles
Subject to change without notice.