Quick Answer: Nik Wallenda is a 7th generation member of the Wallenda family who has set 13 World Records in high wire performance, including walking over Niagara Falls, the Grand Canyon, and an active volcano.
Nik Wallenda & Family – High Wire
Nik Wallenda is a 7th generation member of the legendary Wallenda family. Known world-wide for his incredible feats upon the high wire and beyond, Nik has set 13 World Records, among these the highest 4-level 8-person pyramid on the wire, the highest and longest bicycle ride on a wire, hanging from a helicopter by his teeth, and the first tightrope crossing of an active volcano. His career began at the age of 2, learning to walk the wire while holding his mother’s hand, and it has continued with record breaking performances across the United States and around the world.
In 2012, he fulfilled his life-long dream to become the only person to walk directly over the precipice of Niagara Falls live on ABC. In 2013, he became the first person to walk a wire across the Grand Canyon, an epic event aired live by Discovery Channel in 178 countries, breaking network ratings and social media records in the process. The following year, Discovery Channel again provided live coverage as Nik broke 2 more world records over the city of Chicago. In 2019, Nik & his sister, Lijana, became the first to walk a tightrope directly over Time Square NY live on ABC; and in 2020, ABC aired yet another special live to the world, as Nik claimed another world record, becoming the first person to walk a tightrope over an active volcano.
Nik is a member of the ownership group of Big Apple Circus and headlined and produced the 2021 & 2022 seasons. In 2023, Nik & his wife Erendira alongside the Circus Arts Conservatory started a new show, “Wonderland” a holiday tradition in his hometown of Sarasota. Nik & Erendira have been married 26 years and have 3 children, and 4 grandchildren. Nik is the author of 2 books, “Balance” and “Facing Fear”, and he carries his motto of “Never Give Up” in every walk with the purpose of inspiring people around the world to follow their dreams.
At a Glance
Key Facts
- Nik Wallenda has set 13 World Records, including the highest 4-level 8-person pyramid on the wire and the first tightrope crossing of an active volcano.
- He began his career at age 2, learning to walk the wire while holding his mother's hand.
- In 2012, he became the only person to walk directly over the precipice of Niagara Falls, live on ABC.
- In 2013, he became the first person to walk a wire across the Grand Canyon, aired live by Discovery Channel in 178 countries.
- In 2019, Nik and his sister Lijana became the first to walk a tightrope directly over Times Square NY live on ABC.
- Nik is a member of the ownership group of Big Apple Circus and, with his wife Erendira, started the holiday show 'Wonderland' in Sarasota in 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions
What records has Nik Wallenda set?
Nik Wallenda has set 13 World Records, including the highest 4-level 8-person pyramid on the wire, the highest and longest bicycle ride on a wire, hanging from a helicopter by his teeth, and the first tightrope crossing of an active volcano.
When did Nik Wallenda walk over Niagara Falls?
In 2012, Nik Wallenda fulfilled his life-long dream to become the only person to walk directly over the precipice of Niagara Falls, live on ABC.
Did Nik Wallenda cross the Grand Canyon?
Yes, in 2013 he became the first person to walk a wire across the Grand Canyon, an event aired live by Discovery Channel in 178 countries.
What books has Nik Wallenda written?
Nik Wallenda is the author of 2 books, 'Balance' and 'Facing Fear'.
What is Nik Wallenda's connection to the circus industry?
Nik is a member of the ownership group of Big Apple Circus and headlined and produced its 2021 and 2022 seasons; in 2023 he and his wife Erendira started the show 'Wonderland' in Sarasota.
