The Liberty and Brookville Lion's Clubs have teamed up to bring the Culpepper and Meriweather circus to Brookville while raising money for the Lion's clubs.

"The money we raise, the portion that goes back to Liberty, will be used for community service projects," Carl Sharpe of the Liberty Lions Club said.   "Primarily Christmas for Children, eyeglasses for needy kids, or whatever needs come up in the community." 

There will be two performances of the circus on Friday, Aug. 12. The first show is at 5:30 p.m., and the other is at 7 p.m. at the Franklin County 4H Fairgrounds. 

The performances last about 90 minutes and feature classic and unique circus acts, including trapeze, unicycles, daredevils, performing animals and more. 

Another fun and free opportunity for families is to see the open-air circus pop up at the fairgrounds.

"Now, if you come down to the Fairgrounds on the 12th on circus day at 9:30 a.m., you can watch us raise the Big Top up," said Skeeter, the clown. "Big Top is a nickname for that great big circus tent. Then you can stay for the free tour where you can actually see lions and tigers up close and personal."

Tickets purchased in advance are offered at a discount price and are available at Zimmer's Tractor or Remax in Brookville or at State Farm Insurance in Liberty. The circus box office will open one hour before each show. The midway will also be open at that time. There will be pony rides, a 22 ft. inflatable slide, and a colorful carousel moonbounce. 

"A lot of the younger children around here have never had the opportunity to see the circus, and next Friday might be their first chance," said Dennis Kolb of the Brookville Lion's Club. "We'd like to see you there."