sponsored by
The Forgotten Circus
TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
Open every Friday in October 2026: October 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30
The circus was forgotten for a reason.
This October, the lights flicker back on as Not Shockboxx transforms into The Forgotten Circus, a highly produced haunted art experience filled with immersive installations, sinister performers, and a twisted gallery maze built to pull you deeper into a big top that should have stayed buried.
Beyond the entrance, the remnants of an old circus wait in the dark. Faded music drifts through the air. Shadows move behind threadbare curtains. Forgotten performers linger where the spotlight once found them, still desperate for one last audience. As you wander deeper into the decaying big top, the line between spectacle and nightmare begins to disappear, and the circus seems less abandoned with every step. If you find your way out of the maze, the evening continues next door inside The Studio, where games, strange diversions, and other sideshow fun await. The Forgotten Circus will make its final appearance at a separately listed Halloween party on October 31.
DETAILS
Purchase tickets for the hour you desire (some sunlight or full darkness).
Ticket holders may arrive anytime during that window on the Friday for which they purchased admission and enter the walk-through experience. Children are welcome, but all guests age 15 and younger must be supervised by a parent or guardian. Parents and guardians are responsible for determining whether the experience is appropriate for their children and for helping ensure they have a positive experience.
Presented by Not Shockboxx and The Studio
Creative Direction by Mark “Debo” DiBenedetto
Produced in collaboration with Boomz Pharm and Geist Monster Media
Experience Curators Joel Geist and Claudia Berman
frequently asked questions
What is Forgotten Circus?
Forgotten Circus is a circus-themed haunted maze presented by Not Shockboxx and The Studio in Hermosa Beach. Expect spooky scenes and live scare actors, with very little blood or gore. One part of the exhibit includes obviously fake blood. We designed the experience to stay family-friendly.
When and where does it take place?
The experience runs Fridays in October from 6–9 pm at 636 Cypress Avenue, Hermosa Beach, CA. The last maze entry is at 8:55 pm. In consideration of our neighbors, all sounds end at 9 pm.
Where do I check in?
Check in at the ticket booth out front at 636 Cypress Avenue.
How scary is it?
You choose your scare level at check-in: 1, 2, or 3, with 1 being the least scary. Younger children tend to prefer level 1, while adults often enjoy level 3. Your level is announced to the performers inside before you enter so they can tailor your experience.
Can children attend?
Yes. Guests ages 15 and younger must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The accompanying adult or guardian must sign their waiver. Choose a scare level that feels right for your group.
How much are tickets?
Tickets are $15 per person for both children and adults.
Should I buy tickets in advance?
Advance tickets let you select an arrival hour and receive priority entry. Tickets are also available at the door for the same price if space is available, but the experience may sell out.
Get tickets at https://notshockboxx.com/circus.
Can I transfer or refund my ticket?
We prefer that guests transfer their tickets to another day or another guest. If you need help with a transfer or refund, contact hello@studiohermosa.com.
Will the performers touch me?
No. Performers will not touch you. Please do not touch the performers, props, or anything inside the experience.
Are there flashing lights or other special effects?
Yes. The experience includes strobe lights, fog, and loud sounds.
What if I feel overwhelmed?
Speak up and let us know. A nearby volunteer can help you.
Do I need to sign a waiver?
Yes. All guests must sign a waiver before entering. A parent or guardian must sign for guests ages 15 and younger.
Can I wear a costume or mask?
Yes. Costumes and masks are welcome.
Can I bring food, drinks, cameras, or flashlights inside?
No. Food, drinks, cameras, and flashlights are not allowed inside the experience. You may take photos outside, including with scare actors who are outside the maze.
Can I bring my pet?
No pets are allowed.
Is this open to the community?
Yes. This experience is open to the community, and we want people to come enjoy it.
Where can I park?
Parking is available in the lot at 6th and Cypress, with additional street parking and parking adjacent to businesses. Please follow posted parking restrictions. If you live nearby, walking or biking is a great way to get here.
What does my ticket support?
Ticket revenue helps cover the costs of the experience. Forgotten Circus is made possible by hundreds of volunteer hours, and everyone involved volunteers.
The experience supports the Hermosa and Free Foundation, which supports access to the arts and opportunities for creativity, connection, and cultural participation in the community.
Who can I contact with questions?
Email hello@studiohermosa.com. For tickets and event information, visit https://notshockboxx.com/circus.