European Youth Circus
Every two years, Europe's up-and-coming circus artists gather in Wiesbaden for a spectacular festival: the European Youth Circus—October 22–25 at the Dern'schen Gelände! Ticket sales begin on August 1.
From October 22 to 25, 2026, downtown Wiesbaden will once again be transformed into an international stage for top young circus artists: The Cultural Affairs Office of the State Capital of Wiesbaden is hosting the renowned “European Youth Circus” festival at 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 will present spectacular performances drawing on both traditional and contemporary circus arts: breathtaking aerial acrobatics, world-class juggling, powerful handstand acts, and innovative stage performances combine 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, in particular, 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 urban artists from 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 to create 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., Competition A (school performance; remaining tickets may be available on short notice)
- Thursday, October 22, 7:00 p.m., Competition B
- Friday, October 23, 10 a.m., Competition B (school performance; remaining tickets may be available at short notice)
- Friday, October 23, 7:00 p.m., Competition A
Awards Ceremonies for the Winners
- Saturday, October 24, 7:00 p.m. (followed by an awards ceremony)
- Sunday, October 25, 3:00 p.m.
Ecumenical artist service
- Sunday, October 25, 11 a.m.
Tickets
Advance ticket sales begin on August 1, 2026. Tickets are available at https://www.frankfurtticket.de/bundles/eyc2026/ (opens in a new tab) or at the Tourist Information Office in Wiesbaden at Marktplatz 1.
Ticket prices:
Please refer to the seating chart for the seating arrangement. Seats are arranged in blocks A through H in a circle around the arena, with blocks C, D, E, and F offering the best views. The boxes are located directly next to the arena.
Evening competition shows:
Regular price:
Box seats: 63 euros
; Tier 1, Sections C, D, E, F: 49 euros
; Tier 2, Sections B, G: 35 euros
; Tier 3, Sections A, H: 22 euros
Children/reduced price*:
Box seats: 40 euros; Balcony
Level 1, Blocks C, D, E, F: 32 euros
; Balcony Level 2, Blocks B, G: 26 euros; Balcony
Level 3, Blocks A, H: 17 euros
Galas:
Regular price:
Box seats: 79 euros
(Tier 1), Blocks C, D, E, F: 63 euros
(Tier 2), Blocks B, G: 41 euros
(Tier 3), Blocks A, H: 28 euros
Children/reduced price*:
Box seats: 47 euros
; Tier 1, Blocks C, D, E, F: 39 euros
; Tier 2, Blocks B, G: 30 euros
; Tier 3, Blocks A, H: 20 euros
All prices include sales tax, advance booking fees, and system fees. Special price for school groups: Thursday, October 22, and Friday, October 23, 10:00 a.m.: 10.50 euros.
*Discounts available for schoolchildren, college students, apprentices, and people with severe disabilities (GdB 70 or higher). Companions are admitted free of charge.
Wheelchair-accessible seats and service dogs:
To reserve wheelchair-accessible seats (plus one accompanying person) and to bring service dogs, please register in advance by emailing european.youth.circus@wiesbaden.de
For wheelchairs, please specify whether it is a manual or electric wheelchair.
A separate ticket must be purchased for children who have reached their second birthday. Please note that loud music and sensory stimuli during the performances may not be suitable for young children. We recommend that children attend the European Youth Circus no earlier than age four. The decision regarding this rests with the legal guardians.
Documents
A look behind the scenes at the EYC
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