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Official 48th Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival Poster Architecture
Monaco Prestige Events

48th Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival & 13th New Generation

From January 16 to January 25, 2026, Monaco becomes the world capital of circus arts as the 48th Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival takes center stage under the iconic Chapiteau de Fontvieille.

Event Timing January 16 to January 25, 2026
Location Arena Chapiteau de Fontvieille, Monaco
Proximity Loop ~10 km from Villa Graziella
Official Poster Design Realized by "Petit Gougou"

Witness the world’s greatest circus artists perform awe-inspiring, record-breaking acts: daring aerial stunts, fearless acrobatics, masterful juggling, and unforgettable clown performances—all vying for the prestigious Golden Clown (Clown d'Or). Whether you are a lifelong circus enthusiast or discovering the art for the first time, the festival is an unmissable winter highlight on the French Riviera.

Why the Monte-Carlo Circus Festival Is So Special

Founded in 1974 by Prince Rainier III, the Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival is considered the Olympics of the circus world. Presided over by H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie of Monaco, the festival is renowned for excellence, innovation, and artistry. Each year, an international jury awards the Golden, Silver, and Bronze Clowns to the most outstanding performances.

Past Golden Clown recipients include legends such as Charlie Rivel, David Larible, and Bello Nock, whose artistry continues to inspire new generations.

Elite international circus acrobat balance performance loop
Masterful artistic configurations demonstrating raw physical limitations under the ring spotlights.

Highlights of the 48th Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival

Death-Defying Aerial and Trapeze Acts

High above the ring, elite aerialists defy gravity with heart-stopping stunts that demand extraordinary strength, precision, and courage.

High altitude trapeze and aerial choreography display
Breathtaking aerial acts executing gravity-defying maneuvers high within the Fontvieille tent ceiling.

World-Class Clowns

From poetic and nostalgic to hilariously modern, the festival’s clowns deliver moments of pure joy, laughter, and emotion—appealing to audiences of all ages.

Mesmerizing Animal Acts

A long-standing tradition of the festival, these performances showcase the intelligence, elegance, and deep bond between animals and their trainers, presented with respect and artistry.

Innovative Circus Troupes

Contemporary circus companies blend traditional skills with modern storytelling, technology, and choreography, offering a glimpse into the future of circus arts.

High intensity fire juggling dramatic production element
Contemporary elements incorporating dramatic illumination choreography into classic disciplines.

Official Programme Highlights

The festival calendar splits the performance metrics into structured competition slots and winner show galas:

16/01 – 20:00Competition Show – 1ˢᵗ programme
17/01 – 14:00Competition Shows – 2ᵉ programme row initialization
17/01 – 20:00Competition Shows – 1ˢᵗ programme secondary tracking
18/01 – 10:30Two-hour Show specialized family matinee block
18/01 – 15:00Competition Show full panel verification review
20/01 – 20:00Gala Evening & Official Awards Ceremony closure
21 – 24/01Various Times – Winner's Shows elite performance tracks
24 & 25/0110:30 – Final Two-hour Shows at special adjusted price models

The Golden Clown: The Ultimate Circus Honor

The Awards Ceremony is one of the most anticipated moments of the festival. The Golden Clown (Clown d’Or) is awarded to the most exceptional act, while Silver and Bronze Clowns recognize other outstanding performances. This glamorous evening brings together artists, critics, and international media in an atmosphere charged with excitement and celebration.

Staying at Villa Graziella (Èze)

After an evening under the big top, retreat to the absolute serenity of Villa Graziella, your private haven overlooking the French Riviera.

Why choose our standalone property framework?

  • Prime Location: Short drive to Monaco while enjoying Èze’s medieval charm.
  • Luxury Amenities: Private heated pool, panoramic views, refined interiors.
  • Space & Comfort: 5 en-suite bedrooms ideal for traveling groups.
  • Tranquility Enforced: Complete privacy buffers to unwind after vibrant festival nights.
Villa Graziella luxury lounge layout and master interiors

Getting to the Festival from Villa Graziella

By Car / Taxi (Recommended Choice)

  • Distance parameters: ~10 km map line vectors.
  • Travel time footprint: 20–30 minutes (allow margin parameters for gala nights).
  • Route trajectory: Èze → Moyenne Corniche (D6007) → Monaco → Fontvieille district lines.
  • Parking deployment infrastructure: Parking Fontvieille or Parking des Salines (short structural walk directly to the tent gates).

By Public Transport

Take Bus 112 or Bus 82 lines from the Èze highway corridors directly toward the central heart of Monaco, exiting near the Fontvieille / Stade Louis II terminals for an easy walk over to the Chapiteau arena layout.

Villa Graziella Mediterranean outdoor terrace and stone masonry walls
The peaceful stonework architectures at Villa Graziella providing high-contrast calm after late Monaco evenings.

Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.)

1. When is the Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival held?
The 48th edition runs from January 16 to January 25, 2026.
2. Where is the Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival held?
It is hosted entirely within the permanent Chapiteau de Fontvieille arena inside the Principality of Monaco.
3. How can I buy tickets for the festival?
Reservation packages can be secured directly through the official ticketing interface links on the Monte-Carlo festival website.
4. What are the circus awards in Monte Carlo?
An international expert jury evaluates performances to award the historic Golden Clown (Clown d'Or), Silver Clown, and Bronze Clown statuettes.
5. Who is the festival suitable for?
The elite curation features high-art acrobatics and family comedy, creating an exceptional experience for multi-generational travelers and corporate groups.
6. How do I get to the festival if I’m in Monaco or elsewhere in the French Riviera?
Monaco is seamlessly connected via standard TER rail networks running links between Nice and Cannes, alongside direct car paths along the coast.
7. Why stay at Villa Graziella in Eze during the festival?
It provides standalone luxury, an integrated rapid EV car charging hardware installation, gated private security parking, and zero hotel crowd disruptions just minutes away from the city gates.
8. Can I take photos or videos during the festival performances?
While photography is generally allowed, the use of flash or professional recording equipment is prohibited to avoid disrupting the performances. Always check the rules listed on your ticket or at the venue.
Exclusive Winter Booking

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Our Direct Booking channels for Monaco's marquee winter tournament weeks book out months in advance. Contact our concierge desk with your party parameters to lock your dates today.

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