You won't find this circus under a big top. Rather, the First Annual Something Strange Circus Sideshow Festival will unfold at the Mod Club.

Local mentalist Mysterion is putting on a weekend-long festival that's more similar to American Horror Story: Freak Show than the wholesome Shrine Circus or Cirque du Soleil. And, he's hosting it with J. Tithonus Pednaud, who's behind The Human Marvels website. The two regularly hold shows under the Something Strange banner. But, this is their largest event to date.

"It's the biggest sideshow expo in the history of the country," says Mysterion, describing the event. To boost the nostalgia factor, he's bringing in vintage circus banners from Coney Island.

These will help transform the Mod Club on January 23. The Little Italy venue will play host to Vaudevillian show of sorts that'll include acts from both Toronto and abroad. Expect to see former WWE wrestler Sinn Bodhi, The Monsters of Schlock, The Tinderbox Circus Sideshow as well as a contortionist, a sword swallower and a myriad of showgirls and burlesque performers.

Mysterion notes that there will also be an educational component to the evening because James Taylor, the creator of Shocked and Amazed magazine, will be giving a lecture.

Along with the performances, you can view select pieces from Mysterion's own Museum of Oddities. And, you'll be able to shop for curiosities at the festival's marketplace.

The following day, you can attend what Mysterion calls a "gross-out" brunch at Round in Kensington Market.

Tickets for both events are on sale now and run from $25 to $50.

Image via Facebook.