In 1982, when a parade of musicians and artists fancifully made their way through the city streets, gaining great support on their way, eventually ending by pitching a huge blue and white tent for the participants to perform.

the tent stood for three months, until authorities disbanded it, which was met by protests from participants of the movement, and led to them being given the name that it has today, the circo voador - Although not a circus anymore, the name remains due to the significance of the place for the carioca society.

in more recent times, the babilônia circus has gained a sterling reputation as one of the premier circuses in the region. beginning in 2008, the circus travelled through various towns of the state, until eventually landing in the barra da tijuca neighborhood, where it became exceptionally popular, drawing in crowds from all around, which included a number of celebrities.