With the success of Cirque du Soleil, acrobats have been highly sought after in circuses worldwide. (Image © Matt Crossick/EMPICS Entertainment/PA Photos)

Image © Matt Crossick/EMPICS Entertainment/PA Photos

Heard of Ferris Wheel Day? You have now. February 14 marks the birthday of a wickedly gifted inventor, George Washington Gale Ferris, who made the first Ferris wheel for an exhibition in Chicago in 1893. His name lives on in his wonderfully indulgent creation, something that produces nothing but thrills and fun.

Fairground rides might be only getting more sophisticated but the Ferris wheel spins gamely on. Begin our guide to fairs and circuses worldwide to discover the best in pure entertainment old and new.