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Tralee Circus Festival

An industry convention doesn’t sound like the most exciting, child-friendly event in the world, but when it’s one that grew out of a juggling convention it’s a whole different, well, ball game.

Tralee Circus Festival, which is taking place this weekend in the Co Kerry town, began in 2000 as a way for diverse strands of circus performers to meet, share ideas and perform for each other. It has grown into an opportunity for circus fans to enjoy some spectacular acts.

There are two shows this weekend, one indoors, one outside. Today at Siamsa Tíre Theatre, Town Park, festival hosts the Fanzini Brothers will introduce international acts, including award-winning clown Fraser Hooper, Patrizio Boing, a slack-roping medieval knight and Yodel, who promise “contemporary circus culture mixed with Alpine culture in a splendid display of stupidity”. Performances at 2pm and 5pm, admission €12.

Tomorrow at 3pm there will be an outdoor performance of circus games in Tralee town park. If it rains, the action will move to the Brandon Hotel.

traleecircusfestival.com