Contortionists, clowns and creatures took center stage at the Grundy County Fairgrounds as the Carson & Barnes Circus came to town Monday.

The circus set up shop in the parking area of the fairgrounds and held two shows for local audiences, as well as a chance to get up close and personal with miniature horses and elephants.

Katie Bristow, of Morris, brought her 2-year-old son, Trent, out for the show. The two sat in a front floor section under the big red tent, which was decorated with stars underneath, taking in the music, the lights and the action.