Big Top Chautauqua

Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua is a non-profit arts organization with a mission to provide entertaining and educational activities that celebrate excellence in entertainment, history, culture, and the environment. For 36 years, the intimate 900 seat canvas tent venue has showcased world-renowned touring acts, regional performers, and an inimitable brand of original shows that feature Big Top's famed house band, the Blue Canvas Orchestra.

Big Top presents over 60 concerts, shows, and events June through September in an intimate 900 seat all-"canvas" tent, including international headliners, regional talent, and original productions. Our unique summer venue is located at the base of Mt. Ashwabay just outside of Bayfield, Wisconsin. Perched on the shores of Lake Superior, Bayfield is known as the gateway to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and the Gaylord Nelson Wilderness Area.

The Big Top stage has hosted Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Garrison Keillor, The Smothers Brothers, Emmylou Harris, John Prine, Nanci Griffith, Buddy Guy, Steve Earle, Brandi Carlile, Keb’ Mo’, Taj Mahal, Jonny Lang, The Mavericks, The Beach Boys, John Hartford, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Del McCoury, Bill Monroe, Bonnie Raitt and many more renowned artists.

Our 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.