Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival
In a nutshell
- 22–31 January 2027
- 49th Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival and 14th edition of New Generation
- Performances taking place in the Fontvieille Big Top
- Gala evening and awards ceremony on 26 January 2027
- Several performances of the Winners’ Show
Highlights of the 2027 Festival
The 2027 Monte-Carlo Circus Festival will begin with two different selection programmes, presented from 22 to 24 January. These performances will give audiences the chance to discover the competing artists ahead of the awards ceremony.
The gala evening and awards ceremony will take place on Tuesday 26 January 2027 at 7.30 pm. This will be followed, from 27 to 31 January, by several performances of the Winners’ Show, bringing together the acts that have won awards during the festival.
An ecumenical celebration is also scheduled to take place in the big top on Monday 25 January at 7.00 pm.
The Golden Clown, the Festival’s top prize
A particularly eagerly awaited moment, the awards ceremony honours the artists and troupes who have impressed the jury with their technical mastery, creativity and the quality of their performances.
The Golden Clown is the Festival’s highest honour. Silver Clowns and Bronze Clowns round off the list of winners, alongside various special prizes.
At the first edition in 1974, Prince Rainier III presented the very first Golden Clown to the Spanish artist Charlie Rivel.
New Generation: a showcase for young talent
The 14th edition of New Generation will celebrate the new generation of circus arts. Created in 2012 by H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie and her daughter Pauline Ducruet, this event offers young international artists a prestigious stage on which to showcase their talent.
As Chair of the New Generation International Jury since its inception, Pauline Ducruet presents, amongst other awards, the Junior d’Or, the competition’s highest honour for young artists.
By bringing together established artists and emerging talents, the Festival helps to preserve circus traditions whilst supporting its artistic renewal.
A Monegasque tradition dating back to 1974
The Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival was founded in 1974 by Prince Rainier III, a great enthusiast of the circus arts. His ambition was to support the traditional circus, its artists and the great circus families.
In 2005, H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie of Monaco became President of the Festival and continued the commitment initiated by her father. Under her leadership, the event continues to bring together the finest international artists whilst upholding the values, traditions and transmission of the circus arts.