Moolah Shrine Circus Parade takes to the streets Saturday

The 2013 circus season is about to kick off with the Shrine Circus Parade in historic St. Charles.

The parade will start at noon, Saturday, March 9, as police move out on the parade route, heading south on N. Riverside Drive and ending at the parking area for Lewis and Clark Boat House and Nature Center at Boonslick Road. The parade promises to have more than 100 parade units from two states.

The parade is a prelude to the 71st annual St. Louis Moolah Shrine Circus. The circus will be held from March 21 through March 24 at the Family Arena located at 2002 Arena Parkway in St. Charles. Show times include 7 p.m. on Thurs., March 21; 7:30 p.m. on Fri., March 22; 10 a.m., 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Sat., March 23; and 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Sun., March 24.

Before, during intermission, and after the show, visitors will have a chance to ride an elephant, ride a pony, take a picture with a white tiger or 15-foot-long snake, or ride the children’s train. There will be a bounce house and face painting by the famous Moolah Clowns.

Tickets cost $12 for general admission, $17 for reserved, $27 for VIP, and $35 for executive VIP. A $3 facility fee will be added to all ticket prices. For more information, call 314-878-6301.