European Youth Circus
Every two years, young European circus artists gather in Wiesbaden for a spectacular festival: the European Youth Circus—a true highlight of Wiesbaden’s cultural calendar.
From October 22 to 25, 2026, downtown Wiesbaden will once again be transformed into an international stage for top-tier young circus artists: The Cultural Affairs Office of the State Capital of Wiesbaden is organizing the renowned EUROPEAN YOUTH CIRCUS festival on the Dern’schen Gelände, right next to City Hall.
European performers aged 12 to 25 will gather here to compete in several contests—in an atmosphere of friendship and mutual respect. They present spectacular performances drawing on both traditional and contemporary circus arts: breathtaking aerial acrobatics, world-class juggling, powerful handstand acts, and innovative stage performances come together to create a unique experience in the big top right in the heart of the city.
An international jury evaluates not only technical precision but, above all, the creativity, innovation, expressiveness, and personality of the performing artists.
The 2026 Theme
The theme of the 2026 festival is: OUT OF THE BUBBLE
Together with artists from the urban arts scene in Wiesbaden and the surrounding region, the festival is broadening its artistic horizons and building bridges between different art forms and communities.
Breakdancing, graffiti, rap, and skateboarding meet contemporary and classical circus arts. Together, they create opening shows, transitions, performances, and an urban supporting program that anchors the festival even more firmly in the region. The goal is a comprehensive artistic experience that highlights diversity and fosters new creative encounters.
“Out of the bubble” also stands for social dialogue, openness, and European solidarity—values that have shaped the EUROPEAN YOUTH CIRCUS for many years.
Performances
Competition Shows
Thursday, October 22, 10 a.m. (School performance; remaining tickets may be available on short notice)
Thursday, October 22, 7:00 p.m.
Friday, October 23, 10 a.m. (school performance; remaining tickets may be available at short notice)
Friday, October 23, 7:00 p.m.
Gala Performances by the Award Winners
Saturday, October 24, 7:00 p.m. (followed by the awards ceremony)
Sunday, October 25, 3 p.m.
Ecumenical Service with Performers
Sunday, October 25, 11 a.m.
Location
All performances take place in the tent on the Dern'schen Gelände in downtown Wiesbaden.
Tickets
Advance ticket sales begin on August 1, 2026.
Tickets are available at www.frankfurtticket.de or at the Tourist Information Office in Wiesbaden (Marktplatz 1, 65183 Wiesbaden).
Documents
A look behind the scenes at the EYC
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