Aerial & trapeze acts
High above the ring, elite aerialists defy gravity with heart-stopping routines that demand extraordinary strength, precision and courage.
49th edition · 22–31 January 2027
Monte-Carlo Circus Festival 2027: A Visitor's Guide
The 49th Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival and the 14th New Generation promise an exceptional edition with never-before-seen performances, under the most prestigious big top in the circus world.
- 22–31 Jan49th Festival & 14th New Generation
- 26 JanGala evening and awards ceremony
- From €30Tickets €30–115, Gala evening €45–210
- ~10 kmFrom Villa Graziella to the big top
A winter highlight on the Riviera
From 22 to 31 January 2027, Monaco becomes the world capital of circus arts. The world's greatest artists perform daring aerial acts, fearless acrobatics, masterful juggling and unforgettable clowning under the big top in Fontvieille, all competing for the coveted Golden Clown.
Whether you're a lifelong circus lover or discovering the art for the first time, the festival is an unmissable winter highlight on the French Riviera. Here's everything you need to plan your visit: the 2027 programme, tickets, getting there, and where to stay.
Since 1974
Why the Monte-Carlo Circus Festival is so special
Created in 1974 by Prince Rainier III, the Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival is often called the Olympics of the circus world. Presided over by H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie of Monaco, it is renowned for its excellence, innovation and artistry.
Each year an international jury awards Golden, Silver and Bronze Clowns to the most outstanding acts. Past Golden Clown winners include legends such as Charlie Rivel and David Larible, whose artistry continues to inspire new generations.
Alongside the main festival, the New Generation competition, now in its 14th edition, puts the spotlight on the most promising young circus artists.
Under the big top
What to expect at the festival
Innovative troupes
Contemporary companies blend traditional skills with storytelling, lighting and choreography, offering a glimpse of the future of circus arts.
World-class clowns
From poetic and nostalgic to hilariously modern, the festival's clowns bring pure joy, laughter and emotion to audiences of all ages.
Animal acts & the ménagerie
A long-standing festival tradition, presented with respect and artistry. The festival's ménagerie is set up around the big top.
22–31 January 2027
The 2027 programme
The festival opens with the selection shows, where the jury discovers the competing acts. The Gala evening and awards ceremony follow, then the Winners' Shows, where the prize-winning acts perform again.
| Date | Time | Show | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fri 22 Jan | 20:00 | Selection show – 1st programme | €35–110 |
| Sat 23 Jan | 14:00 | Selection show – 2nd programme | €35–110 |
| Sat 23 Jan | 20:00 | Selection show – 1st programme | €35–115 |
| Sun 24 Jan | 10:30 | 2-hour show (reduced price) | €30–80 |
| Sun 24 Jan | 15:00 | Selection show – 2nd programme | €35–110 |
| Mon 25 Jan | 19:00 | Ecumenical celebration under the big top | Free |
| Tue 26 Jan | 19:30 | Gala evening & awards ceremony | €45–210 |
| Wed 27 Jan | 11:00 | 2-hour show (reduced price) – new session, public holiday in Monaco | €30–80 |
| Wed 27 Jan | 15:00 · 20:00 | Winners' Show | €35–95 |
| Thu 28 Jan | 19:30 | Winners' Show | €35–95 |
| Fri 29 Jan | 20:00 | Winners' Show | €35–100 |
| Sat 30 Jan | 10:30 | 2-hour show (reduced price) | €30–80 |
| Sat 30 Jan | 15:00 · 20:00 | Winners' Show | €35–110 |
| Sun 31 Jan | 10:30 | 2-hour show (reduced price) | €30–80 |
| Sun 31 Jan | 14:30 | Winners' Show | €35–110 |
| Sun 31 Jan | 19:30 | Winners' Show | €35–95 |
Programme as published by the festival in autumn 2026 and subject to change. Always check montecarlofestival.mc before booking.
Practical guide
Tickets & prices
€35–115Selection shows and Winners' Shows
€45–210Gala evening & awards ceremony, 26 January
€30–802-hour shows at reduced prices, ideal for families
Where to sit
- Fauteuils A to E: armchair seats around the ring, from category A (closest and most expensive) to E.
- Gradins: tiered bench seating behind the armchairs, the most affordable option (from €30).
- Loges: ringside boxes, from €100 per seat depending on availability.
Discounts
- Children aged 5 to 12: half price in the Gradins on every date; half price in Fauteuils D and E from 22 to 24 January; and half price in all Fauteuils (A to E) for the 24 January 10:30 show and from 27 to 31 January.
- Under 5: free, seated on a parent's lap.
- Reduced mobility and disability: half price in all sections.
Booking
- Online: on the official festival website, montecarlofestival.mc, or by email at reservation@montecarlofestival.mc.
- Box office: open Monday to Friday, 10:00–13:00 and 14:00–18:00.
- Fees: €6 booking fee; tickets by registered post +€7, or +€10 with a gift wallet.
- No exchanges or refunds: check your dates before booking, and book the Gala early, as it's the most sought-after night.
- Photos: flash and professional recording equipment are not allowed during performances.
The ultimate honour
The Golden Clown
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 acts, while Silver and Bronze Clowns recognise other outstanding performances. On Gala night, artists, critics and international media gather under the big top in an atmosphere charged with excitement.
In 2027 the Gala evening and awards ceremony take place on Tuesday 26 January at 19:30.
Beyond the Clowns, dozens of special prizes are awarded by partners, circus federations and fan associations. Among the 2026 special prizes:
- Festival Audience Award: Ilya & Regina, Zara
- New Generation Audience Award: Duo Peperoni
- Louis Merlin Trophy: Duo Migranti
- Pauline Ducruet Special Prize for Best Costume: Tonito Alexis
- Cirque d'Hiver Bouglione Prize: Flying Fuentes Gasca
- World Circus Federation Prize: Angelina Richter
Circus Festival accommodation
Where to stay for the Monte-Carlo Circus Festival
After an evening under the big top, retreat to the calm of Villa Graziella, your private home on the French Riviera, just a short drive from Monaco.
- Prime location: a short drive to Fontvieille, with the charm of Èze on your doorstep.
- Space & comfort: five en-suite bedrooms, ideal for families and groups.
- Luxury amenities: private pool and jacuzzi (heated on request in winter), 700 m² of gardens and refined interiors.
- Practical: three private parking spaces and an electric car charger on site.
From Villa Graziella
Getting to the festival
The big top stands in Fontvieille, at 5 avenue des Ligures, about 10 km from Villa Graziella.
By car or taxi
Allow 20–30 minutes along the Corniche into Monaco and on to Fontvieille, and more on Gala night. Public car parks in Fontvieille are a short walk from the big top.
By train
TER trains link Èze-sur-Mer with Monaco-Monte-Carlo station in a few minutes. From there, take a Monaco bus or a taxi to Fontvieille.
From Nice airport
Nice Côte d'Azur Airport is about 30 minutes from Monaco and Èze by car, making a long weekend at the festival easy to arrange.
Festival week · 22–31 January 2027
Your private base for the Circus Festival
Five en-suite bedrooms, private gardens with a pool and jacuzzi, and Monaco a short drive away. Festival week overlaps with the Monte Carlo Rally (21–24 January), so Monaco books up early: tell us your dates and we'll come back to you with availability and rates.
Frequently asked questions
Monte-Carlo Circus Festival 2027: FAQ
When is the Monte-Carlo Circus Festival 2027?
The 49th Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival and the 14th New Generation run from 22 to 31 January 2027. The Gala evening and awards ceremony take place on Tuesday 26 January.
Where is the festival held?
Under the festival's big top (Chapiteau) in Fontvieille, 5 avenue des Ligures, Monaco.
How much are tickets and how do I buy them?
Tickets cost €35–115 for the selection shows and Winners' Shows, €45–210 for the Gala evening, and €30–80 for the 2-hour shows, plus booking fees (€6). Children aged 5–12 get half price in certain sections, and under-5s go free on a parent's lap. Book on montecarlofestival.mc, by email at reservation@montecarlofestival.mc, or at the box office (Monday to Friday, 10:00–13:00 and 14:00–18:00). Tickets are not exchangeable or refundable.
What is the Golden Clown?
The Golden Clown (Clown d'Or) is the festival's highest award, presented by an international jury at the Gala evening. Silver and Bronze Clowns recognise other outstanding acts.
What is New Generation?
New Generation is the festival's competition for young circus talent. Its 14th edition takes place alongside the 49th festival in January 2027.
Is the festival suitable for children?
Yes. The festival combines world-class acrobatics with comedy and spectacle, and the shorter 2-hour morning shows at reduced prices are ideal for families.
Can I take photos or videos during the shows?
Flash photography and professional recording equipment are not allowed during performances. Always check the rules on your ticket or at the venue.
Why stay at Villa Graziella during the festival?
The villa is about 10 km from the big top, with five en-suite bedrooms, a private pool and jacuzzi, three private parking spaces and an EV charger: a calm, private base away from the crowds. Contact us for availability.
Sources & resources
Plan the details
- Official information, programme & ticketsFestival International du Cirque de Monte-Carlo
- 49th Monte-Carlo Circus FestivalCôte d'Azur France Tourism Board
- Monte Carlo Rally 2027, 21–24 JanuaryVilla Graziella guide
- The Côte d'Azur out of seasonVilla Graziella guide
- Rates & availabilityVilla Graziella
- Reservations and enquiriesContact Villa Graziella
Last updated: October 2026
This guide is published by Villa Graziella, a private luxury villa for holiday rental in Èze, which is not affiliated with the Festival International du Cirque de Monte-Carlo. Programme, prices and conditions are taken from the festival's published information and may change; please confirm on the official website before booking.