Third-generation circus performer, producer, and animal trainer, Ian Garden Jr., was presented with the honor of a star on The Big E’s Circus Walk of Fame. The ceremony took place on Sept. 18, 2022 at the Fair located in West Springfield, Mass.

Established in 1992, the Circus Walk of Fame has commemorated some of the most distinguished circus impresarios and entertainers. Garden’s induction marks the first time a stone has been added in over a decade, the last star being introduced in 2011.

Following in his father, Dick’s, footsteps, Garden rose to prominence in the circus industry through his work with animals. He began his career presenting dogs, ponies and horses, and later transitioned into working with elephants, large cats, and camels. His love for animals eventually led to his professional partnership with Ryan Henning, where together they established America’s Show Camels (ASC).

The production’s attraction, Camel Kingdom, was initially presented at The Big E in 2017 and 2018. ASC’s attraction, Sahara, currently resides inside Gate 7 of the Exposition’s Fairgrounds. Garden’s involvement with The Big E’s Circus Spectacular began in 2018, has served as Show Producer since 2019 and Ringmaster since 2021.

Garden has been recognized by various organizations for his contributions to the circus entertainment world. At the helm of eight shows across the United States and Canada, Garden’s masterfully orchestrated performances have been spotlighted by the Circus Fans of America Association, and have even led him to star in Amazon Prime’s limited series, Circus.

Now residing among the company of renowned showpeople such as Dolly Jacobs, The Great Wallendas, Bello Nock, and Tommy and Struppi Hanneford, Garden’s name can be witnessed by more than 100,000 visitors each year, cementing his legacy as part of Big E history.

The Big E and Viva Las Circus return September 15-October 1, 2023. For information visit TheBigE.com.