Circostante – Contemporary Circus

Contemporary Circus Arrives in Carpi

Circostante is one of the freshest new additions to the 2026 edition of LaCarpiEstate, the extensive programme of events that enlivens the Municipality of Carpi, in the province of Modena, from May to October under the theme "A Hive of Events". It is a festival dedicated to contemporary circus, a genre that blends acrobatics, balancing, juggling, physical theatre, and visual poetry, and which has been captivating squares and courtyards throughout Emilia-Romagna for some years.

Three Evenings, Two Locations in the Historic Centre

The programme focuses on three events in July. It begins in Piazzale Re Astolfo, a large square overlooking the historic centre, before moving to the evocative Courtyard of Honour of the Pio Castle, the Palazzo dei Pio that dominates the famous Piazza dei Martiri, one of the largest squares in Italy. The Renaissance setting of the castle lends a special atmosphere to the performances, where circus arts dialogue with the city's history.

A Festival for Everyone, with Free Admission

Consistent with the philosophy of LaCarpiEstate, summarised by the Councillor for Culture Giuliano Albarani in the concept of "cultural welfare" made up of accessible and never elitist events, Circostante offers three completely free evenings. It is a proposal designed primarily for families and young audiences, but capable of captivating anyone who loves live outdoor performances on warm Carpi summer evenings.

Part of Carpi's Great Summer Events

Circostante is part of a very rich calendar: alongside contemporary circus, LaCarpiEstate brings music to the city with the CarpInMusica festival, theatre, cinema, literature, sports, and events for children, spread across the historic centre, parks, and surrounding villages. Experiencing an evening of Circostante therefore means connecting with all the cultural energy of Carpi, one of the most vibrant cities in the Modenese plain.