International Circus Festival of Monte-Carlo

The Monte-Carlo Circus Festival

The International Circus Festival of Monte-Carlo is one of the most prestigious circus events in the world. Created in 1974 by Prince Rainier III, a lifelong circus enthusiast, it has become a beloved tradition in the Principality's cultural calendar.

History

Prince Rainier III founded the festival to celebrate and preserve the art of circus performance at the highest level. Since its inception, the event has attracted the finest circus acts from every continent, transforming Monaco into the world capital of circus arts each January. Today, Princess Stephanie continues her father's legacy as president of the festival.

The Golden Clown

The festival's highest honour is the Clown d'Or (Golden Clown), awarded by an international jury to the most outstanding act. A Silver Clown and Bronze Clown are also presented. Winning a Golden Clown is considered one of the greatest achievements in the circus world, and past winners include legendary acrobats, aerialists and animal trainers.

What to expect

Performances take place under the big top at the Chapiteau de Fontvieille, a permanent circus tent structure in the Fontvieille district. Each edition features:

• Acrobatics and aerial acts: gravity-defying feats from international troupes
• Clowns: comic performers who compete alongside the athletic acts
• Animal presentations: trained horses, elephants and exotic animals (subject to evolving regulations)
• Juggling and balance: virtuoso skill acts from around the world

The chapiteau seats around 4,000 spectators, and the atmosphere is festive and accessible.

Practical information

Shows run over approximately ten days in late January. Tickets are available on the official website and range from around 30 EUR for upper seats to premium pricing for front rows. Fontvieille is easily reached by bus or on foot from central Monaco.