About EJC 2026

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.

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

Who organises it?

Organizing the EJC festival is a labor of heart, passion, and dedication. Our volunteers and amateur organizers invest their time, energy, and talents every day to create an unforgettable experience for all participants. Without their selfless commitment and love for the event, the festival simply wouldn’t be possible. The EJC team is a community of people who believe in the power of collaboration, creativity, and shared goals. Each team member contributes their unique skills, whether in logistics, programming, technical support, or caring for participants. Together, we push the boundaries of what’s possible and create a space where everyone can enjoy, learn, and grow. Their energy, optimism, and dedication are contagious – inspiring participants and fellow volunteers alike. The EJC team proves that passion and teamwork can create something greater than any individual, something that brings people from around the world together and leaves lasting memories.

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! 🤡✨

House rules EJC 2026

Admission Ticket

Your wristband is your admission ticket. You may only enter the EJC site if you are wearing your wristband. Keep your wristband on at all times, as you must be able to show it when requested. You will receive only one, so do not lose it. The same applies to your gala ticket.

Waste

We separate waste into different containers: plastic and metal (yellow), organic waste (brown), glass (green), paper (blue), and residual waste (black). Deposits on cans and bottles should be placed in the container with the deposit logo; the collected funds will be donated to the festival.

Animals

Animals are not allowed on the festival grounds, except for medical reasons and only with prior approval from the organization.

Drugs

All drugs are illegal in Slovenia.

Alcohol

Alcohol is only permitted for people aged 18 and over. It is prohibited in all of the gyms and school areas.

Smoking

Smoking is prohibited in public buildings, tents, gymnasiums, and restrooms.

Open Fire

The use of fire is prohibited in tents and on the camping grounds. In case of fire, call the fire department immediately (112), and inform an EJC staff member as soon as possible. Fire extinguishers and other fire safety equipment are available at designated locations throughout the festival grounds.

First Aid

If you need medical assistance, visit the First Aid station, where professionals are available from 10:00 to 01:00. Outside these hours, you can ask an EJC staff member for first aid assistance. In case of a life-threatening situation, call 112 immediately and inform an EJC staff member.

Note: Flash photography is not allowed during shows.

Emergency Situations

In case of an emergency or evacuation, follow the instructions of the security staff and EJC personnel carefully.