Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival

Competition in the spotlight

Under the famous big top in Monaco, enjoy a unique circus show featuring a selection of the best international acts. Every year for 10 days, jugglers, magicians, clowns, tightrope walkers and animals take to the stage to deliver ever more breathtaking performances. The ultimate goal is to win THE circus arts award: the Golden Clown!

At the start of the festival, only Golden Clowns and Silver Clowns were awarded. In 2002, the importance and quality of the acts presented led to the creation of the Bronze Clowns.

The circus: passing on a passion

In 1974, Prince Rainier III of Monaco, a great circus enthusiast, decided to create a Festival to help and support the traditional circus and circus families: the 1st Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival was born! Since then, it has become one of the world's most prestigious events, attracting huge crowds and being broadcast around the world.

The love of the circus has been passed down from father to daughter, and in 2005 Princess Stéphanie became President of the world's biggest circus festival! She is also Honorary President of the World Circus Federation, whose role is to represent circuses and circus schools around the world, preserve the values and traditions of the circus arts and promote their development.

Finally, in 2012, H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie and her eldest daughter Pauline Ducruet decided to create New Generation, a festival for young artists. Pauline is President of the International Jury.

The circus is a family, a unique atmosphere where magic mingles with joy and laughter, emotion, dignity and respect for authenticity. Year after year, the Festival and its performers continue to inspire young and old alike.

Long live the circus!