It is affiliated with the former Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, now Shriners International.

In 1996, it ran for 17 days with 40 performances making it not only the oldest Shrine Circus, but also the most attended.

The last performances are usually held Thanksgiving week in Evansville, Indiana, and New Orleans, Louisiana.

The 2005 season ended in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, rather than New Orleans, due to Hurricane Katrina.

Over the years many circus stars have appeared in Shrine Circuses, including: Clyde Beatty, the Flying Wallendas, Emmett Kelly, the Flying Concellos, the Hannefords[2] and the Zacchini brothers.