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Big Top Chautauqua Tickets

Location
Bayfield, WI

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The venue

About Big Top Chautauqua

Big Top Chautauqua is a storied 900-seat, all-canvas tent theatre located at the base of Mt. Ashwabay in Bayfield, Wisconsin. Since opening in 1986, this outdoor venue presents 60+ concerts and shows each season (June–September), featuring the Blue Canvas Orchestra alongside nationally recognized artists in a unique, intimate setting.

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Whether you’re planning a summer escape or a local night out, we’ve got you covered with practical details on seating, parking, transit, and nearby places to stay and dine. Secure your seats with trusted partners and enjoy easy access to a memorable performance experience.

Parking is a gravel lot with uphill access for larger events; staff will assist with parking flow. For convenient travel, Bay Area Rural Transit offers a free shuttle service with multiple stops across Ashland, Washburn, and Bayfield (some routes require reservations). Box Office and The Backstage offices are located in Bayfield for ticketing and show operations. Nearby lodging options include The Bayfield Inn, Old Rittenhouse Inn, Timber Baron Inn, Great Water Inn, and Seagull Bay Motel—each offering a comfortable base for your Big Top Chautauqua night. If you’re driving in, arrive early to enjoy the area’s scenic views and local eateries before curtain call.

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Notable performers over the years include Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Brandi Carlile, John Prine, Nanci Griffith, Buddy Guy, Merle Haggard, and Bonnie Raitt, among others. We’ve got you covered with straightforward, friendly guidance to help you secure your seats and plan a smooth trip to the Bayfield summer experience.

Good to know

Seating, Parking & Venue Information

  • Capacity: 900-seat all-canvas tent venue (opened 1986).
  • Location/address: 32525 Ski Hill Rd, Bayfield, WI 54814, at the base of Mt. Ashwabay.
  • Venue type: outdoor, canvas tent theatre; presents 60+ concerts/shows per season (June–September) with the Blue Canvas Orchestra.
  • Seating options: First Tier Reserved, Second Tier Reserved, Outside Tent-Covered, Box Seating, High-Top Tables, Accessible Seating, General Admission Grounds/Lawn.
  • Parking: gravel parking area; larger events may be uphill; parking is managed by venue staff; overnight parking not permitted.
  • Transit: Free shuttle service (Bay Area Rural Transit) with stops across Ashland, Washburn, and Bayfield; reservations required for some routes.
  • Box office/backstage: Box Office & The Backstage offices located in Bayfield (address and contact via official site); The Backstage is in a remodeled building formerly known as Fore’n Aft / The Northern Edge.
  • Nearby hotels: The Bayfield Inn (20 Rittenhouse Ave), Old Rittenhouse Inn, Timber Baron Inn, Great Water Inn, Seagull Bay Motel (Bayfield area).
  • Notable events hosted: Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Brandi Carlile, John Prine, Nanci Griffith, Buddy Guy, Merle Haggard, Bonnie Raitt, and other national/regional artists.