They say circuses are for kids.

Don’t believe it for a second.

Kids and grandkids are just an excuse for children of all ages to flock to The Greatest Show on Earth.

The “oooohs” and “aaaahs” that will fill the Stockton Arena Sept. 19-21  for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey’s circus will come mostly from the crowd that remembers life before the Internet, Nintendo and reality TV. By the same token, the high-wire acts, clowns and tigers bring plenty of wide eyes, open mouths and giggles from the kids.

This year’s Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey itinerary gives 209 residents six excellent opportunities to see the ultimate circus.

The Greatest Show on Earth is Friday, Sept. 19 (at 7 p.m.), Saturday, Sept. 20 (11:30 a.m., 3:30 and 7:30 p.m.), and Sunday, Sept. 21 (1 and 5 p.m.).

Tickets range from $15 to $60. They are available at Ticketmaster.com, by calling 800.745.3000 or at the Stockton Arena  box office.

The Greatest Show on Earth earns its moniker. If you’ve never been to the world’s most famous circus but have partaken in the offerings of smaller traveling companies, be prepared for a shock.

The Greatest Show on Earth is almost Disney-like in its dazzle, its cleanliness, wholesomeness and awe-inspiring entertainment. The costumes are colorful, the trapeze and high-wire acts flawless and the magic almost impossible to not let you lose your cares.

Ringmaster Johnathan Lee Iverson guides Paulo the Legend Seeker on his quest to discover real, living circus legends from around the world. Along the way they encounter the fantastical Pegasus, a Unicorn and the remarkable Woolly the Mammoth.

Featuring over 100 performers spanning 25 countries plus more than 85 animals from nearly every continent around the world, the Ringling Bros. 144th Edition features several unique acts including the China National Acrobatic Troupe from Beijing perform several impressive acts including balancing 20 people on two bicycles.