Gravelines International Circus Festival

International Circus Comes to Gravelines

Since 2022, the Hauts-de-France International Circus Festival has made Gravelines the capital of traditional and contemporary circus in France. Organized by Imperial Show, this international event takes place at the PAarc des Rives de l'Aa, under Europe's largest big top, offering a spectacular show to the thousands of spectators who flock there each year.

An Exceptional Show

The festival presents a selection of the world's best circus acts, carefully chosen to offer a complete and varied show. Artists from all over the planet perform under the giant big top, offering a program that delights all generations.

Acrobats and Aerialists

Acrobatic acts form the backbone of the show. Trapeze artists, tightrope walkers, contortionists, and tumblers defy the laws of gravity in breathtaking performances. Aerial acts, performed several meters high under the big top's dome, offer moments of pure grace and emotion.

Clowns and Comedic Artists

True to the great circus tradition, the festival gives pride of place to clowns and comedic artists. Their humorous interludes punctuate the show, bringing lightness and laughter between the most spectacular acts. From Auguste clowns to poetic clowns, all styles are represented.

The Gala Evening

The highlight of the festival, the gala evening brings together a jury of personalities from the world of circus and entertainment. This prestigious evening, held on Saturday night, is an opportunity to award prizes to the festival's best acts, in an elegant and festive atmosphere.

Europe's Largest Big Top

The festival is distinguished by its exceptional setting. The big top, the largest in Europe, can accommodate several thousand spectators in optimal conditions. Its impressive size allows for large-scale acts that are impossible in traditional big tops, offering a show worthy of the greatest international circus competitions.

Gravelines, Land of Spectacle

Gravelines, a fortified town built by Vauban on the North Sea coast, offers a remarkable heritage setting for the festival. The PAarc des Rives de l'Aa, a vast natural and leisure area, is perfectly suited for setting up the large big top and all the infrastructure necessary for an event of this scale.