Experience the Magic of the World’s Best at the Circus Winners’ Gala in Budapest

Experience the Magic of the World's Best at the Circus Winners' Gala in Budapest
Event January 17, 2026 11:00 am - March 15, 2026 7:00 pm
Recommendation ★★★★☆
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Author Dani Pesti

Budapest is home to one of the most prestigious circus events globally, and this winter, you have the chance to see the “best of the best” perform under one roof. The Festival Plus – Winners’ Gala at the Capital Circus of Budapest brings together the award-winning stars of the 16th Budapest International Circus Festival for a high-energy, classical circus show that you won’t want to miss.

A star-studded showcase of global talent

This isn’t just a regular circus performance; it is a curated “carnival of victors” directed by the legendary French circus master, Joseph Bouglione. Every artist taking the ring has been handpicked for their excellence, having already won over the professional jury and the public at the international festival. From breathtaking aerial maneuvers to world-class animal acts, the gala is a tribute to the passion and years of hard work these performers have dedicated to their craft.

Meet the award-winning performers

The lineup is a truly international affair, featuring some of the most charismatic and technically gifted artists in the world today.

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  • Flying Tabares (USA/Argentina/Portugal/Japan/Canada): Winners of the prestigious Golden Clown in Monte Carlo, this legendary troupe is making their Hungarian debut with a breathtaking flying trapeze act.
  • Duo Aerial DNA (Israel): Known for their emotional and gravity-defying pole act, Alisa and Dan recently toured with the famous Circus Theater Roncalli and won bronze at the Almaty Circus Festival.
  • Maria Sarach (Russia): A modern master of the handstand, Maria has performed with Cirque du Soleil and turns physical strength into a stunning, innovative art form.
  • Giulia Giona (Italy): A third-generation equestrian star who brings elegance and a deep connection with horses to the ring, fresh from her success at the International Circus Festival of Latina.
  • Anatoli Akerman (Israel): A former star of Cirque du Soleil’s Las Vegas shows and featured in Tim Burton’s Dumbo, Anatoli brings a blend of poetry and intuitive humor to his world-class clowning.

Local favorites and high-energy duos

The gala also celebrates rising stars and unique technical skills. Hungary’s own Duo Kriko will showcase their incredible discipline on the straps, while the Duo Sabawian from Ethiopia brings a high-energy “adagio” performance that blends traditional discipline with modern stage style. For those who love variety, Kelly Folco from Italy will amaze you with her balance on a unicycle, a skill she has perfected across the biggest stages in Europe.

Plan your visit to the Capital Circus

The show runs throughout the winter season, with multiple performances scheduled to fit into any tourist itinerary. Whether you prefer a morning show with the family or a grand evening gala, there are plenty of options.

Performance times and dates

The gala begins its run on January 17, 2026, and continues with regular shows through March 15, 2026.

  • Saturdays: Shows typically at 11:00, 15:00, and 19:00.
  • Sundays: Shows at 11:00 and 15:00.
  • Weekdays: Mid-afternoon performances are available on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 15:00.

Practical tips for tourists

  • Location: The Capital Circus (Fővárosi Nagycirkusz) is located in the beautiful City Park (Városliget), right next to the Széchenyi Thermal Bath and the Budapest Zoo.
  • Tickets: It is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance online, as the Winners’ Gala is one of the most popular shows of the season.
  • Language: While the circus is a universal language, the charismatic presence of the international performers ensures that every guest, regardless of nationality, feels part of the magic.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see the world’s most acclaimed circus artists in one of Europe’s most historic circus venues. It’s a perfect winter activity that combines the thrill of high-stakes performance with the charm of classical Budapest culture.

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Experience the Magic of the World's Best at the Circus Winners' Gala in Budapest