For nearly 40 years, Big Top Chautauqua's intimate canvas tent venue has showcased world-renowned touring acts, regional performers, and original productions featuring their famed house band the Blue Canvas Orchestra. Every summer, beginning in June and until early October, Big Top presents over 60 concerts, performances, family events, in their iconic tent venue located at the base of Mt. Ashwabay just outside of Bayfield perched on the shores of Lake Superior. 

The Big Top stage has hosted Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Brandi Carlile, David Crosby, Buddy Guy, Jackson Browne, Bonnie Raiit, John Prine, Nanci Griffith, The Beach Boys, Keb Mo, Lindsey Buckingham, Tanya Tucker, The Temptations, Lake Street Dive, Steve Earle, Jonny Lang, Ani DiFranco, Merle Haggard, Richie Havens, Robert Cray, and many many more!

Big Top's own unique brand of shows feature songs and stories performed by Big Top’s Blue Canvas Orchestra and Singers. Together with a multitude of talented guest artists, our original productions bear the hallmark of exquisite musicianship illustrated by big-screen visuals. In addition to performances at Big Top, the Blue Canvas Orchestra tours throughout the region.