COLUMBIA (WACH) -- It's a tell-tale-sign that the circus is in town when the elephants arrive in style.

The circus' pachyderm made the trod down Lincoln Street to the Colonial Life Arena for the annual elephant walk.

Dozens braved the cold temperatures for the official arrival of the Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Circus in Columbia.

"It's an old tradition that dates back to Barnum's days when he used to walk in the animals," explains circus performer Oscar Liendo Jr.  "It was a moving zoo and it kind of lets everyone know we're here.  It's almost like introducing everyone to the elephants, five elephants from here to the Colonial Life Arena."

Liendo says this is the 200th anniversary of PT Barnum's circus.

Spectators this weekend will see old school circus stunts like high wire acts and the world famous Clown Alley.

Visit their website to find out more about the event.