Generally
As a participant: Your ticket is valid from 9 am of the first day until 10 pm of the last day for every day which your ticket covers. A one-day ticket is valid from 9 am to 10 pm for that one day. With a two-day ticket you can stay on the property until 10 pm of the second day of your ticket and so on.
- NOTE: Most outdoor rigging (except 5 points) will be taken down at 9 pm. The last outdoor rigging points will be closed at midnight. Indoor (tent) rigging is open continuously, but we recommend not training aerial acrobatics after 12 am for your own safety. Exhaustion and fatigue increase your risk of accidents and injuries.
As a show visitor:in
For shows in the tent (e.g. Gala and Open Stage): Entrance possible from 45 minutes before the show
Outdoor shows: Admission 20 minutes before the show
with a day ticket you can stay on the premises until 10 p.m.
IMPORTANT: All open-air rigging points will be dismantled from 9 p.m. - only up to 5 pieces with extra lighting are installed here
All open-air rigging points will be dismantled from midnight.
In the circus tents, the rigging points remain permanently installed, but we recommend that you no longer do aerial artistry from 24 p.m. Pay attention to your health and minimize the risk by only training in daylight.
A badge is your ticket while you are on site. You will receive yours before you enter the site.
At AC-Con, participants will have badges in the form of a card (about the size of an ID card).
This badge is printed with a QR code as well as your first name. That way, it also functions as a name tag for easy communication.
All your bookings are stored on the QR code.
So your badge is a lot in one: your food stamps, your ticket to a show or a workshop, and much more.
Please take good care of your badge, if it gets lost, you will not receive a replacement.
External visitors receive a bracelet in a colour signalling the booked ticket. Please always wear it visible until you leave the site. Please also show our crew your purchased ticket from the shop before admission.
If you take part in a workshop, we will tape off your bracelet beforehand to prevent injuries.
It's more than just a festival - it's a movement to promote the international circus community. This is where artists and artists of all experience levels meet in one of the most unique places in Germany: Ferropolis - the city of iron.
Next to the atmosphere of community and the stunning location, the number of rigging points makes the AC convention the largest event of its kind in Europe.
Safety
Yes! If you need help - whether medical, organizational or personal - you have several contact options:
Crew & security
All local team members are trained and there for you. You recognize them by their eye-catching safety vests. Talk to them at any time - even with minor problems or questions.
Do you want to address the right person? We got you - our safety vests are colour coded and are labelled on the back, stating the person´s function in the team.
Info point
Think of this as our equivalent to the reception desk of a hotel. Here you get:
Help with questions or finds
Contact to paramedics, security or festival management
Access to your deposited emergency numbers and contact person
Awareness team
You can recognize them by their purple vests. They´re there to help during moments of mental stress, if you or others experienced discriminatory behaviour of if you simply seek support.
Emergency numbers
You can find the most important phone numbers on the back of your badge or at the info point.
Depending on what your needs are and when you want to contact us, you have different options:
For topics and questions you know beforehand that might arise (e.g. sound sensitivity during a show with loudspeakers, sensitivity to flashing lights, impaired eye sight that might cause difficulties on a dark camping ground, the potential of a freeze response when overstimulated, needing more seating space because of your weight etc.): You can contact us via awarness@ac-convention.de so we can figure out the best way to make your stay a smooth and pleasant experience.
If you experience something during the event:
- We have an awareness team at the convention that you can turn to in situations of mental stress, experiences of discrimination or other stressful situations.
- You recognize us by our purple vests and the number of Awareness phone is printed on your badge.
- We have an awareness room that can be your Safer Space - if you need some time for yourself and want to withdraw from the hustle and bustle.
- With the code word: "Panama", you can contact our entire crew. Then we'll get you out of the situation in question and then calmly clarify what further support you need.
*Important: You're not alone. Whether you've lost your way, are injured or just need assistance: Ask someone with a vest or come to the info point.
You can find the awareness concept here: awareness concept
Your safety is our top priority.
Mandatory safety instruction
Every participant: in before the badge is handed out, a safety instruction has to be given on site, after which you sign for it.
Without participation, you will not be given access to the site.
Am I assured as a participant if something happens to me?
no. As a visitor: You are not automatically insured by the organizer in the Aerial-Circus Convention – neither for accidents, damage to property or theft.
Participation in AC-CON, workshops or other activities is at your own risk.
We recommend you:
Private accident insurance (especially if you take part in workshops).
A liability insurance for damage that you accidentally cause.
Note: All visitors confirm our terms and conditions with the purchase of tickets - including the disclaimer, which is also part of the safety instruction.
Yes, samples, this is where the special focus is on prohibited items, drugs, narcotics, dangerous objects, etc.
You can only officially enter the site after you have attended the security workshop and have signed the disclaimer - then you will hold your badge.
Our security concept can be viewed at any time, this is binding for every visitor: in - if you do not stick to it, you can be excluded from areas or from the entire festival.
Our crew is marked with safety vests, a description of the individual colors can be found at the info point.
You can't find anyone with a safety vest? Then feel free to contact the info point, this is 24 hours a day for you.
A RTW (rescue car) with two emergency paramedics is on site throughout the festival. Right next to it is a medical room as a contact point for medical questions or problems.
The emergency number from AC-CON is on the back of your badge.
In the event of heavy rain or storms, the terrain can be partially or completely cleared.
At the Aerial-Circus Convention you are in good hands in an emergency.
We have an ambulance (RTW) with two emergency paramedics on site over the entire period of time, who take over the entire medical care.
What to do in an emergency?
stay calm.
Is anyone from the crew or medical staff nearby? Talk to us directly.
There's no one from the team right now? Call your badge's emergency number. Using the coordinate system, we will find you quickly.
I have a minor injury, where can I go?
Ambulance and medical room are located directly on the site near the toilets.
You recognize our emergency paramedics by their operational clothing.
How warm is it getting on the premises at the time?
If we knew...
We recommend keeping an eye on the weather a week beforehand and definitely pack sun protection and rainproof clothing.
Extreme weather conditions:
If strong weather events such as heavy rain or heat are known beforehand, we will inform you by e-mail.
In the case of drought, stricter restrictions on open fire may apply (e.g. of camping stoves). We'll let you know if that's the case.
We are prepared for every situation and would like to make the AC-Con as pleasant as possible for you. Please follow the instructions of our crew during strong weather events.
The safety of all visitors is our top priority. If extreme weather conditions (e.g. thunderstorms, storms, heavy rain) or another risk situation occur, our safety and evacuation plans will apply.
What you should do in this case:
stay calm & listen carefully. Our crew, security staff and announcements give clear instructions.
Follow the instructions immediately. This applies above all to leaving certain areas or to visit safe zones.
homepage & Check social media. We will keep you informed about current developments and measures.
Don't panic - we're prepared! Our trained crew knows the emergency routines. Rescue services and police are also involved on site.
Note: A weather-related interruption or partial cancellation of the program does not justify a claim for a refund of the ticket price - see terms and conditions.
You can contact crew, helpers or security at any time.
Purple West = Awareness Team
Wenn du dich unwohl fühlst oder Hilfe brauchst, sag einfach das Codewort: "Panama" – This is our solid signal for support.
Please note that Circus and, in particular, aerial artistry, are physically demanding and entails certain requirements, only you know your limits and what is possible for you. Get in touch with questions and let's find solutions individually.
At the Aerial-Circus Convention, we make sure to protect your personal data - whether you buy tickets, take part in the workshop or can be seen in a photo.
The following data protection rules apply:
General data processing:
When you buy tickets, your contact details will be saved for the processing.
We may include your consent and confirmation of participation in the safety instruction and participation in the workshop.
Minors must have a written declaration of consent – this is also documented.
photo & Video recordings:
Pictures, sound and video recordings are made during the festival.
These can be used or passed on by the organizer and partners for PR, social media and commercial purposes.
By entering the site, you agree to this.
If you do not agree with this, please speak directly to the photo and videographers on site.
transparency & control:
You can request information at any time about which data we have stored of you.
If you wish, we can delete or correct your data (according to the GDPR).
Terrain
On the premises we have wheelchair accessible Access to the toilets on the grounds, the majority of the festival site is largely accessible by wheelchair (exception, for example, are some areas of the forest that only have gravel path and some steps).
If you need help with your arrival, you have special requirements or aids, please do not hesitate to contact us in advance By email: orga@ac-convention.de
The best way to get an overview is on our interactive map.
Overall, the site is divided into three areas:
The central area:
- Infopoint (24h occupied)
- Catering area
- Sanitary facilities
- Main stage with circus tentsThe aerial areas:
- in various circus tents
- Outdoor rigging points
- Extra spinning area with floor runners
- WAM-up and acrobatic areas in all circus tentsCamping / overnight stay
- Tent sites
- Campsites
- cooking area
- Shower and toilets nearby
yeah Showers are available:
The shower containers are near the camping area, where you can also get warm water.
When using it, please note:
- Please pay attention to the peak times (morning and evening) and keep in mind that maybe someone is just waiting for the next free shower.
- Bring your own towel and hygiene items.
- Make sure you treat the furnishings and your fellow human beings with respect, we all want clean showers.
no.
For safety and animal welfare reasons, pets are not allowed on the entire festival site and the campsite - whether dog, cat, ferret or alpaca, your goldfish unfortunately also has to stay at home. No matter how well educated.
Why?
Loud music, large crowds,... mean tremendous stress for animals
The risk of injury or uncontrollable behavior is too high
Allergies and consideration for other visitors also play a role.
Ausnahme:
Certified assistance dogs with official proof are allowed after prior registration. We ask for your understanding - and your furry friends will certainly be happy if they can spend the weekend safely at home.
Important!
Unfortunately, animals also have to stay outside as a day guest, show visitor or when taking part in a guided tour.
There are several ways to visit AC-Con:
by special train, You can find out more about this on the website.
I can't do the special train or don't want to use it- No problem, the terrain is also accessible on foot. By public transport you can get to the day parking.
I'm coming by car- Then you can park outside the grounds and then walk to the grounds
I come with the camper- Pay attention to your arrival times and if you have parked, please do not move anymore.
There may be various problems during the journey, but here we will find a solution together:
Did I miss the special train?- no problem, this one drives several times a day - contact us by phone and you just take the next one
I missed my train Due to a delay from the previous trip, are you late or can't you make it onto the site on time?
Give us a call and let us know in good time that your arrival is late, this is not a problem either.
In principle, if you have any problems, please contact us. All participants should arrive safely and safely with us. You can find the phone number on the website before starting the AC-Con.
Overnight stay
No, if you're staying in a tent at AC-Con, you can use the campsites for free.
However, if you are arriving with a camper/car and would like to stay in it, you have to book a camping ticket beforehand.
Generally applies:
The first one gets their favorite place.
Take care of your fellow human beings and arrange each other. There is no way to reserve a parking space.
Your camper may no longer be moved during the event, please only park on the designated areas.
With a 4-day ticket, your arrival by camper is only permitted on 04.06 and departure only on 07.06.
We don't offer you electricity, no water, no sewage. Please do without a generator of the environment and your fellow human beings for the sake of it.
Alternatively, you can park in the day parking where it is possible to move your vehicle at any time - Important: Camping is not allowed there.
No problem, here are a few solutions:
Feel free to ask your local circus community, many con-goers are usually well prepared and maybe have a tent.
Used platforms to purchase used items, we as an event support our visitors to live sustainably.
no success so far?
Write us an email using the contact form, we collect this information centrally and thus determine the need.
Great, this thought is just right and helps everyone immensely:
Bring your extra tent with you, maybe someone will need the tent spontaneously on site.
At the current time, we don't know how much need for additional tents. Keep an eye on your email inbox, our homepage and the social media channels. If there is a need, we will make a call about this in good time
start.
aerial artistry
As our name already tells you, the focus of AC-CON is on aerial artistry.
Various circus tents and areas are assigned to various disciplines on site.
Among other things, vertical cloth (silk), trapeze (duo, single and dance trapeze), vertical rope (rope), straps (straps and loops), aerial hoop, vertical net and a special prop aera with up to 6 rigging points.
We would like to welcome any circus discipline, which is why there are also designated areas for individual disciplines, for example the asphalted open space between the excavators offers plenty of space for unicycling and artistic cycling.
Take a look around on the interactive map on our premises.
Questions or suggestions? write a email to circus@ac-convention.de
We attach great importance to your security, so the following measures are taken by us:
There is at least one soft floor mat under all installations.
Special spinning-aeras are designed only with ground runners
Individual rigging points can only be used with rigger and fall protection
Mandatory security briefings will be carried out with all participants before the event begins
Dear that you would like to support us, but:
We have all common aerial props on site in sufficient number
We are supported by many manufacturers and are thus well positioned.
Are you interested in a new aerial prop? Ask on the site at the InfoPoint how you can buy your prop after the AC-Con.
Are you sure that your equipment is unique or extraordinary and would like to bring it to AC-Con?
Top, from such ideas, the AC-Con lives
Write us an email to circus@ac-convention.de
Add a few pictures of your prop and a short description. We also need detailed images of the suspension points and a picture of your props in use.
Please also provide us with the resilience and age using a data sheet.
Great, more rigging points means more flexibility.
There is enough space on the site to set up all sorts of rigs. The large arena in the middle of Ferropolis offers a solid paved ground.
write us circus@ac-convention.de
Please provide us with your construction book or your load information, age, dimensions and pictures of the condition.
After a signed disclaimer, you are welcome to bring your frame with you.
Important: However, please travel a day earlier, at the latest in the morning on July 4th, 2025, to have enough time to set up the frame, so you can also secure the best place to sleep on site.
Ticket
We have divided people into two categories during the AC-Con Ferropolis. Here's the difference:
Visitors: Inside:
Can book tickets for shows, guided tours and beginner workshops
The site is accessible until 10:00 p.m
Ideal for the curious and families
Participants: Inside:
can purchase the 4-day ticket with full access
Tickets for shows, catering and internal workshops as an additional product
Possibility of overnight stay on site
24h access to the site
Training at all rigging points possible
Only for people with at least a year of aerial artistry experience
It's important to us that you know what you're paying for - it's not just an event, it's also a jointly supported cultural project.
infrastructure and terrain- We rent and design a special place - including sanitary facilities, electricity, water, stage area and much more.
artists and artists- Many of you invest your time, your knowledge and your art. These people also want to receive a fair fee.
technology and documentation- From stage to camera, the equipment for shows, stage, light, videos and atmosphere is part of the experience.
Material and interior design- Everything that transforms the place is thought out and planned.
Food- is not included when booking tickets, you can book this if you have purchased your con ticket.
As a non-profit association, we calculate fairly, transparently and without a profit intention.
A lot can be regulated via Ticketshop itself, simply on the link in the email, where the cancellation is also possible.
You can also book more items on the same ticket, please do not buy a new ticket if you have already bought a ticket in your name.
The problem still can't be solved? - then please send an email to ticket@ac-convention.de
Aye, but only if tickets are still available, so be quick and best secure your ticket online ;).
On-site payment is only digital via PayPal or real-time transfer, no cash sale.
⚠️ Important: From May 1st, 2025, meals can no longer be booked via the caterer.
Yes, people with restrictions are welcome.
There are no special tickets as all our ticket types are accessible to everyone.
Important: Begleitpersonen von Menschen mit B- oder H-Eintrag im Schwerbehindertenausweis erhalten kostenfreien Zutritt – bitte schreib uns dazu vorab eine kurze E-Mail an: ticket@ac-convention.de
For participants and visitors:
Shows can be booked as an additional product after purchasing a convention ticket.
Each show only has a limited number of seats, we recommend booking in good time
Important:
Admission is generally 30 minutes before the show starts.
Your badge or ticket is required at check-in
Pay attention to the hints as to which entrance is the right one for your shows (the open-stage tent and the gala tent are e.g. next to each other)
The people behind the shows mostly work independently and live from their art, among other things you support:
Artists and artists receive a fair fee and continue to practice their art
the technical equipment for high-quality shows is financed
All lighting and stage technology for a unique experience
Creating an optimal, harmonious atmosphere
You can add internal workshops to your ticket after you buy your Convention ticket.
Booking process:
Add Ticket to Cart
Select workshops
Important:
Limited number of participants per workshop
Timely booking is recommended
The available workshops are recommended for different levels depending on the target group.
You can find more information about the workshops in our ticket shop.
Have you never been in the air and would like to try it?
You as a visitor: You are welcome to take part in a workshop:
Under professional guidance and supervision you can book your workshop with your con ticket
Should you be in a big group If you are arriving, we offer you to organize an exclusive workshop - please write us one email to ticket@ac-convention.de
You can find more information about the workshops in our ticket shop.
Yes!
We are always looking for workshop leaders.
Would you like to give a workshop yourself? Then write to us:
- What would you like to offer? (time approach, discipline, what level, ...)
- What equipment is needed?
- Your experiences and qualifications?
Mail to: circus@ac-convention.de
Every hour, guided tours are offered during the day, which show the Ferropolis site on the one hand, and on the other hand we will answer your questions. We show you insights behind the scenes and here you can also exchange ideas and further education with others.
Important: During the tours, the artists are not disturbed during their training or shows.
From the age of 16, you may take part in the company with an authorized person or trainer (to do this, fill out a "document for the transfer of the duty of supervision" with your supervisor and the legal guardian and have printed it out).
Under the age of 16 you are welcome to visit the shows and be inspired during the day, but unfortunately there is no overnight accommodation on the site for under 16 years.
We have different support options:
Helpers Discounts :
If you are an active helper, we would of course like to accommodate you and reduce your ticket. After all, your help should also be rewarded. There are different levels here, depending on your commitment
Feel free to fill our Form and we will contact you directly
Crowdfunding :
Crowdfunding gives you the opportunity to purchase your ticket with joint financing or even start a donation call. Together we enable everyone to participate.
Regular con and festival-goers already know:
You can experience the circus together! Thanks to your help, we can organize an unforgettable 4-day festival, full of great workshops, impressive acts and a unique atmosphere - without it costing us thousands of euros per visitor.
how can you help
There are many ways to contribute. You can give a workshop, take over a shift or be there as a super helper from start to finish. From scanning tickets to supervising lighting and sound technology, from cleaning to traffic control, from set-up to dismantling: everything is carried out by volunteers.
Effort (partly) in advance of the con:
for range: Talk to your favorite circus buddies about AC-Con, interact with us on social media and make an appointment with friends to visit one of the shows together
for sustainability: You can think about what you can bring to the con: be it the rental of extra tents, organizational bikes, the communication of carpools, ...
In Orga/Marketing/Design/Stagehand/...: write to us via the contact form, then we will come into contact with which area you would like to become active
you want one workshop give? Great! Look in the sub-item "Can I give a workshop myself?", there you will find more information on how to proceed and reach us
Financially: you can donate to the sponsoring association (The Circus Frame e.V. - IBAN: DE48 2019 0109 0011 0193 50) or Sponsor will
....
help (especially) during the con:
Super helper During the entire period (with assembly and dismantling, please read information in advance under point Setup and dismantling): Get in touch with our interest form
as a helping person in one shift For awareness, badge control, info point,...
as jumperthat can be called if we are understaffed somewhere
With own vehicle As a shuttle taxi for people who need to go to or from Gräfenheinichen station, e.g.
...
How do I sign up to help?
for one (or more) Helper Layers At the Con: About our Form
For Carpools/ extra tents/ Miscellaneous, which is primarily relevant for other participants: via the community pinboard (link follows)
As Super helper, with a workshop, one organization bike, etc. (Things concerning the organizational team and other organizational areas: about our interest form
spontaneously at the con At the infopoint: just ask if someone is needed somewhere right now
...
Have you always wanted to lend a hand and set up a circus tent yourself? Experience for yourself how we bring AC-CON to life together with your help.
We look forward to you joining in.
What do you need for this? - Gloves, safety shoes, hearing protection if available and preferably a drinking bottle.
If you are staying overnight: a sleeping bag and a sleeping pad.
No matter how long whether 2 hours or even up to 12 hours, everything is possible. Let us know how many people you want to come with, every helping hand counts.
For the full experience and active support, we recommend planning at least 8 hours. You should also have enough time to take a break.
All construction helpers will be provided with full board from us, so prior registration is essential.
fill our Form off and we'll get in touch.
Other
Here we have several options for you:
Basically, we offer every visitor:M visitor to book meals from our local caterer via the ticket shop.
Our focus is on vegetarian food with vegan alternatives
Is the food too expensive for you? Then you are welcome to take care of yourself, please only prepare your food at the designated stoves.
Please pay attention to the environment and your fellow human beings, avoid garbage, like to cook together and throw away little food.
I have intolerance or allergens. How can I participate without worrying?
We are permanently in close contact with our caterer, cross-contamination and allergen-free cooking is no foreign word for us.
So please write us one Mail to: catering@ac-convention.de, we'll take care of the rest so you can feast carefree.
We've already thought about what you might need:
Tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag
Drinking bottle, gladly a reusable (but no glass)
Suitable clothing for training and also for the stay (see security concept)
headgear, for strong sunshine or even for rain
Jukebox
Hygiene items, such as towels, toothbrush, tampons/binding/..., hairbrush, shower gel, shampoo, lip care and much more.
Weather-related utensils - e.g. sunscreen, sunglasses, mosquito spray, rain jacket, and much more.
Medicines you need
if necessary, food and cooking utensils
Camera for further documentation of the training and performances
You can think of something indispensable, write to us using the contact form
Please leave these items for a respectful home togetherness:
Cutting and stabbing weapons - i.e. everything that could be used as a weapon, e.g. E.g.: axes, machetes, large knives (blade length over 12 cm) sharp-edged metal parts, crowbars, ...
Glass bottles or glass containers
Illegal Substances and Drugs
Pyrotechnics, fireworks, Bengalos
drones or other aircraft
Animals (with the exception of certified assistance dogs)
generator sets, car batteries
This list is only exemplary and has no claim to completeness - the final decision is made by the local security team at check-in
If you have any questions, please write one Mail to: orga@ac-convention.de
no. An absolute no-fly zone above the site applies throughout the festival - this applies to:
drones
model aircraft
camera drones
DIY aircraft of any kind
For safety reasons, it is strictly forbidden to start or fly drones or similar devices on the festival grounds, the campsite or the surrounding areas.
Violations lead to an immediate expulsion from the site - possibly with notification.
Important: As the organizers, we use drones that are controlled by our own pilots and have a special permit.
yes Your bike is welcome.
But please note:
Watch out for your fellow human beings
On the site itself (i.e. behind the entrance), cycling is only permitted at walking speed - for safety reasons and to keep the site accessible to everyone.
Our tip: Bring your own castle or use the parking facilities provided on site - free of charge and safe!
We assume no liability for your bike.
I want to make my bike available to AC-CON as an organizational team
I'd love to! write in Mail to: orga@ac-convention.de
