The Summer 2026 anime season continues to deliver fresh stories, and Grow Up Show: Sunflower Circus stands out as one of the most talked-about original series. The show, produced by Aniplex and animated by A-1 Pictures and Psyde Kick Studio, follows a struggling all-female circus troupe in 1950s Japan. Episode 5 is set to release on August 1, 2026, and fans are eager to see what happens next after the events of the previous episode.
The series has gained attention for its beautiful animation, comedy, and the growing relationships between its characters. Episode 5 promises to continue the journey of the Sunflower Circus as they face new challenges and rivalries.
Release Date and Streaming Schedule for Episode 5
New episodes of Grow Up Show: Sunflower Circus drop every Saturday. Episode 5 will be available on August 1, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. PT / 12:00 p.m. ET. The show will have a total of 13 episodes, with new installments arriving weekly through September.
Here is the full release schedule for upcoming episodes:
- Episode 5 – August 1
- Episode 6 – August 8
- Episode 7 – August 15
- Episode 8 – August 22
- Episode 9 – August 29
- Episode 10 – September 5
- Episode 11 – September 12
- Episode 12 – September 19
- Episode 13 – September 26
The series premiered on July 5, 2026, on Tokyo MX and other networks in Japan. International viewers can watch the show on Crunchyroll, which offers both English subtitles and an English dub.
What Happened So Far in the Story
Grow Up Show: Sunflower Circus is set in the late 1950s and early 1960s, during Japan’s postwar economic boom. The circus was a major form of entertainment at that time, and different troupes traveled across Japan to perform and compete for a spot in the world-renowned Circus Collection festival.
The story centers on the Sunflower Circus, a small troupe led by the short but determined ringmaster Maria. The circus struggles with financial difficulties and empty seats. Everything changes when Mizuka Tsurumaki, a circus prodigy, joins the troupe under unusual circumstances. Mizuka initially dislikes the circus, but her arrival begins to shift the troupe’s fortune.
Episode 4, titled “I Just Can’t Bring Myself To Be Honest,” focused on characters Imari and Isuzu. Imari’s father was a magician, and Isuzu’s family were street performers. The episode brought more comedy to the series, with Mizuka’s funny expressions and her constant struggle to avoid participating in circus activities. However, her weakness for money often forces her to take part.
The episode also showed Mizuka helping Imari find her love for magic again and mend her relationship with Isuzu. Viewers saw hints of closeness between Mizuka and Ouka, as they communicated without words. Shizuku also made jokes about Ouka and Mizuka acting like a couple.
Episode 5 Story Expectations
Episode 5 will likely continue the rivalry with the Sumeragi Circus, a polished troupe that stole the Sunflower Circus’s booked venue in Toyokawa. The competition between circuses is a key theme in the series, as all troupes fight for a chance to participate in the Circus Collection festival.
The show’s comedy and character development are expected to grow in Episode 5. Mizuka remains an interesting character who appears selfish but often shows a selfless side. Her complicated relationship with her father continues to shape her actions.
Fans can expect more beautiful animation, funny moments, and emotional depth as the Sunflower Circus tries to survive and thrive.
Why You Should Watch Grow Up Show: Sunflower Circus
Grow Up Show: Sunflower Circus offers a mix of comedy, drama, and stunning visuals. The show’s setting in 1950s Japan provides a unique backdrop that separates it from other anime. The animation quality, produced by A-1 Pictures, is top-notch, with detailed character designs by Kurehito Misaki.
The characters are relatable and well-developed. Mizuka’s journey from a reluctant participant to a key member of the circus is engaging. The show balances lighthearted comedy with more serious moments, making it appealing to a wide audience.
The voice cast adds to the show’s quality. The English dub features Lizzie Freeman as Mizuka Tsurumaki, Cristina Vee as Ouka Kawasumi, and Cassandra Lee Morris as Maria. The Japanese cast includes Tomoka Noda as Mizuka and Rie Kugimiya as Maria.
The opening theme song “Yurari Yureru” by NOMELON NOLEMON and the ending theme “DAYS!” by Aooo have also received positive feedback.
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Where and How to Watch Episode 5
Grow Up Show: Sunflower Circus is available exclusively on Crunchyroll. Episode 5 will stream on August 1, 2026, at the following times:
- Pacific Daylight Time: 9:00 a.m. PDT
- Mountain Daylight Time: 10:00 a.m. MDT
- Central Daylight Time: 11:00 a.m. CDT
- Eastern Daylight Time: 12:00 p.m. EDT
- Greenwich Mean Time: 4:00 p.m. GMT
The episode will be available with English subtitles and an English dub, making it accessible to a global audience. Crunchyroll offers both free and premium streaming options.
The show is directed by Kanta Kamei, known for his work on Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend. The script is written by Takeshi Kikuchi. The combination of experienced staff and talented voice actors has created a series that continues to grow in popularity.
Episode 5 arrives on August 1, 2026. Do not miss the next chapter of the Sunflower Circus as they face new challenges and work toward their dream of performing in the Circus Collection.
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