Ptuj.info

EUROPEAN JUGGLING CONVENTION
EJC 2026 PTUJ

Welcome to sLOVEnia, welcome to Ptuj!
EJC 2026 will turn the enchanting streets of Ptuj—one of Europe’s oldest towns—into a living, breathing stage. This boutique convention transforms the city itself into part of the experience, where every corner tells a story. The city is our stage, and together, we create a festival that’s alive, connected and full of love and magic.

The EJC is a joyful mix of juggling, acrobatics, dance, and music, where thousands of people gather from across the globe to toss, tumble, and laugh together.

This year, the EJC festival will take place in the beautiful and historic town of Ptuj, the oldest town in Slovenia, where rich cultural heritage meets a vibrant contemporary atmosphere. The unique location by the Drava River and the welcoming town environment create the perfect setting for circus, connection, and shared experiences.

The European Juggling Convention (EJC) is the largest and wildest juggling festival on the planet. Every summer, 3.000–5.000 jugglers, circus lovers and curious humans from 50+ countries turn a lucky European town into a non-stop 9-day circus.

EJC is more than a festival — it’s a community brought together by circus, sport, culture, and creativity. Built on friendship and collaboration, it grows with every new generation, bringing fresh ideas, energy, and fun. People learn, share, and challenge themselves while building skills, confidence, and connections that last well beyond the festival.

In 2026 it’s Ptuj, Slovenia – Ptuj has been continuously inhabited since prehistoric times and was a Roman city by 69 AD. – that gets to host the madness. EJC in Ptuj will be something truly special. Set in one of Europe’s oldest towns, the convention will be surrounded by rich history and living culture at every turn. The old town streets will become part of the event itself, filled with spontaneous performances, street life and shared moments. Everything will be close and connected – venues, stages, camping and the city – creating a strong sense of togetherness. Rahter than a massive, anonymous festival, EJC Ptuj will feel intimate, human and deeply rooted in its surroundings, where city and the convention become one.

Program

The festival program is currently in development and will be published as soon as it is finalized. The organizing team is working hard to ensure a diverse, inspiring, and accessible program for all participants.

Our goal is to present a wide range of circus arts – from contemporary and experimental circus to technically outstanding performances – while supporting creative and top-level circus artists from around the world. Expect shows, workshops, and open stages that encourage knowledge exchange, inspiration, and collective creation.

More information coming soon – stay tuned!

What happens at an EJC?

• 100+ workshops (balls, clubs, rings, diabolo, devil sticks, contact, passing, you name it)
• 24-hour juggling hall
• Open stages, renegade shows, fire space, games & competitions
• The legendary parade through the city
• Gala shows, parties, bar tent until sunrise
• Kids & family area, unicycle hockey, combat, highline, acro, board games…
• And thousands of new friends who speak the universal language of dropped props

Why Ptuj 2026 will be legendary

• Real medieval castle overlooking the site
• Street convention – all the city will be our stage
• Perfect Slovenian summer weather (be prepared for possible rain shower)
• Short walk to the beautiful old town full of cafés and ice cream
• Easy to reach from Ljubljana, Graz, Vienna, Zagreb, Budapest

The EJC spirit

The EJC spirit is about jugglers creating the festival together. It is a convention made by jugglers, for jugglers – where everyone is invited to take part, share their skills, ideas, and energy. By participating, contributing, and co-creating, we build something stronger than any single performance: a true sense of community. Together we shape atmosphere, support one another, and turn the festival into a shared experience, not just an event to attend, but one to belong to.

Everyone is welcome, from total beginner to world champion. Bring props, curiosity and good vibes. Leave stress at home.
See you in Ptuj – ready to drop everything!