The International Circus Festival of Monte-Carlo is set to make a spectacular return from January 16 to 25 at the Fontvieille Big Top, with organisers promising one of the most ambitious editions in the event’s history. Now in its 48th year, alongside the 13th edition of the New Generation competition, the festival will once again place Monaco at the centre of the global circus world.
Nearly 200 performers from across the globe will take part, showcasing the full breadth of contemporary circus arts. Audiences can expect a rich programme spanning classic and modern disciplines, including equestrian artistry, flying trapeze, hand-to-hand acrobatics, teeterboard jumps, contortion, juggling and large-scale aerial acts, all marked by exceptional technical skill and creativity.
Among the standout performances, the Richter family will present a refined liberty horse act, culminating in “La Poste”, widely regarded as one of the most demanding feats in equestrian performance. Latvian artist Andrejs Fjodorov will bring precision and elegance with a highly anticipated pigeon-dressage routine, while the Dalian Chinese Acrobatics Troupe will revive the ancient art of meteors — also known as shooting stars — a discipline dating back thousands of years. Mexican aerialists led by Juan Cebolla are expected to deliver high-flying sequences that promise to leave audiences holding their breath.
Comedy will also play a central role, with Italian clown Davide Vassallo and the Toni Alexis family ensuring moments of humour and warmth throughout the programme. The popular Bingo troupe returns to handle the show’s transitions, with Petit Gougou once again acting as master of ceremonies.
Adding a further layer to the festival, young performers from the New Generation competition will share the ring with established professionals, highlighting the next wave of circus talent and reinforcing the event’s role as both a celebration of tradition and a platform for emerging artists.
Blending heritage, innovation and international excellence, the 2025 Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival promises a memorable showcase of daring performances and artistic mastery — a true highlight of Monaco’s cultural calendar.
