Know Before You Go: Seeing Cirque du Soleil

Cirque du Soleil (meaning “Circus of the Sun”) was founded in 1984. Rather than feature traditional animal acts under the Big Top, each Cirque du Soleil show experience puts its focus on incredible feats of the human body, with mesmerizing choreography, unique costumes, and creative storytelling. Today, Cirque du Soleil is widely respected as the world’s largest contemporary circus producer and famous among Vegas shows that captivate audiences from around the globe.

Cirque du Soleil shows are one-of-a-kind theatrical experiences that you’ll remember forever. Don’t know what to expect at a Cirque du Soleil performance? Think elaborate custom-built stages, the top circus performers in the world, and extravagant effects on a massive scale. Many Vegas visitors rave that seeing a Cirque show has been a highlight of their Vegas experience, and come away feeling like it was well worth the cost.

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There are five Cirque du Soleil shows to choose from in Las Vegas, so it can be difficult to decide which one to attend. Here’s a quick look at what each show is like, and where to watch each Cirque du Soleil production.

O™ by Cirque du Soleil® at the Bellagio is a surreal ballet performed in water, featuring synchronized swimmers, acrobats, fire spinners, divers, and more. (Sitting in the front two rows gives you an amazing view, but you might get splashed!)

The action-packed KÀ™ by Cirque du Soleil® performs at the MGM Grand, featuring epic martial arts battles on a stage that moves for each scene. If you’re looking for a show that’s fast-paced and exciting, this is the Cirque show for you. Michael Jackson ONE at Mandalay Bay and is a powerful tribute to the legendary pop star featuring well-choreographed dance routines, epic acrobatics, and incredible visuals, all performed to a soundtrack of Michael Jackson’s timeless hits.

Mystère is the original Cirque show in Vegas, performing at Treasure Island, while Mad Apple is the only adults-only Cirque du Soleil show in Las Vegas, making it an exception in this family guide to Cirque du Soleil shows. Performing at New York–New York, this upbeat, funky stage production pays homage to New York City, with an exciting mix of comedy, magic, and circus acts.

Cirque shows in Las Vegas run all year, making it easy to include one of them in your Vegas travel itinerary. The Winter holidays (Christmas through New Year’s) bring cooler temperatures to the city, meaning that's a popular time for sightseeing. However, keep that heavier tourism in mind when you plan your trip. Book your tickets early to ensure you don't miss out. No matter what time of year you visit, weekdays draw smaller crowds, meaning you’ll have more of a chance of scoring great seats.

Most Cirque du Soleil shows in Las Vegas start at either 7pm or 9:30pm, and some shows offer both time slots. Showtimes and days differ depending on which show you’re going to see. Doors open approximately 30 minutes before each show starts, giving you time to get seated and comfortable. Cirque performances in Vegas last between 80–90 minutes and run without an intermission. Arrive early if you’d like to purchase a drink or merchandise before the show.

When purchasing tickets for a Cirque du Soleil show, you’ll have a range of options, from standard seating to the best seats in the house. The best seats for Cirque du Soleil are generally located in the front center of the theater. For a truly memorable night, book a Michael Jackson ONE VIP Experience or Mad Apple VIP Social Experience, which get you exclusive perks such as VIP seating, meeting the performers, and a pre-show beverage. Here’s another Cirque du Soleil ticket tip: Try to get aisle seating because the performers move through the aisles during the show, interacting with audience members.

Every Cirque du Soleil show in Las Vegas is designed to be accessible. The theaters feature wheelchair accessible seating with companion seating, as well as elevators and accessible restrooms. The hotels where the shows perform all offer accessible parking in their parking facilities. To ensure that all of your accessibility needs are met, book your tickets for accessible seating directly through the theater’s box office and let them know about any specific requirements.

Cirque du Soleil shows in Las Vegas don’t have a strict dress code, although most attendees wear smart-casual attire. You can dress in anything from jeans and a nice T-shirt to glamorous eveningwear—it’s all okay, but do avoid swimwear and flip-flops. Theaters are air-conditioned, so bring an extra layer in case you get cold. In addition, consider any activities, such as dinner, that you plan to attend before or after the show.

Every Cirque du Soleil show in Las Vegas is located right on the Las Vegas Strip and inside major resorts and casinos. You’re surrounded by attractions and famous landmarks, so before or after your show take some time to explore. Take a ride on the High Roller, the tallest observation wheel in North America; take a selfie at the Fountains of Bellagio; or taste the best food on the Strip with a food walking tour.

• Are Cirque shows family-friendly? Apart from Mad Apple, which is an adults-only show, all of the Cirque du Soleil shows in Las Vegas are suitable for the whole family. Wondering how to prepare for Cirque du Soleil if you’re bringing kids? Check the age restriction guidelines for a specific show; very young children may not be permitted at some performances.
• How long is a Cirque du Soleil show? Most Las Vegas performances last for 80–90 minutes, without intermissions.
• Can I take photos or record the show? Photography without flash and recording short videos below the shoulder is permitted.
• Where else can I see a Cirque du Soleil show? Cirque du Soleil also has shows in Orlando, Montreal, Riviera Maya, and internationally touring productions. Check out the official Cirque du Soleil website to see where you can catch a show.