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
Most of the festival grounds are wheelchair-accessible, including the toilets. However, some areas of the forest only have gravel paths and steps, so are not wheelchair-accessible.
If you require assistance or have any special requirements, please contact us in advance by email: orga@ac-convention.de
The best way to get an overview is to take a look at our interactive map.
The site is divided into three areas:
- The central area:
Information Point (staffed 24 hours a day).
- Catering area
- Sanitary facilities
- A main stage with circus tents. - The aerial areas:
- Various circus tents
- Outdoor rigging points
- An extra spinning area with floor runners
- Warm-up and acrobatics areas in all circus tents. - Camping/overnight accommodation
- Tent pitches
- Campsites
- Cooking area
- Showers and toilets nearby
Yes, there are showers available.
The shower blocks are located near the camping area, where hot water is also available.
Please note the following when using the showers:
- Be mindful of peak times (morning and evening) and consider that others may be waiting for the next available shower.
- Bring your own towel and toiletries.
- Treat the facilities and your fellow campers with respect — we all want clean showers!
No.
For safety and animal welfare reasons, pets are not allowed anywhere on the festival grounds or campsite. This includes dogs, cats, ferrets and alpacas — even goldfish must stay at home. No matter how well-behaved they are.
Why?
- Loud music and large crowds cause enormous stress for animals.
- The risk of injury or uncontrollable behaviour is too high.
- Allergies and consideration for other visitors also play a role.
Exception:
Certified assistance dogs with official documentation are permitted upon prior notification. We appreciate your understanding, and your pets will certainly be happier spending the weekend safely at home.
Important!
Animals are not permitted as day guests, show visitors or participants in guided tours.
There are various ways to visit the AC-Con exhibition.
- By special train — you can find more information on the website.
- If you can't or don't want to take the special train, don't worry — the site is also accessible on foot. You can reach the day car park by public transport.
- If you're coming by car, you can park outside the grounds and then walk in.
- If you're coming by camper van, please note the arrival times – once your camper van is parked, it cannot be moved.
- Arrival 4-day ticket: 4 June 2026, 12:00–18:00
- Departure 4-day ticket: 7 June 2026, 12:00–14:00.
- Arrival 2-day ticket: 5 June 2026, 10:00–11:00
- Departure 2-day ticket: 6 June 2026, 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Various problems may arise during your journey, but don't worry — we'll find a solution together.
- You missed the special train? Don't worry, it runs several times a day – just give us a call and you can catch the next one.
- I missed my train. If you're running late due to a delay on your previous journey and won't make it to the venue on time, let us know.
- Please call us to let us know that your arrival will be delayed. This is not a problem either.
If you have any problems, please let us know. Our priority is for all participants to arrive safely and in good condition. You will find the phone number on the website before AC-Con starts.
Overnight stay
No, if you are camping at AC-Con, you can use the campsites free of charge.
However, if you are arriving by caravan or motorhome and would like to stay in it, you must book a camping ticket in advance.
The following applies in general:
- It's first come, first served.
- Please be considerate of your fellow campers and come to an agreement amongst yourselves. It is not possible to reserve a parking space.
- You may not move your camper during the event, so please only park in the designated areas.
- If you have a 4-day ticket, you can arrive with your camper on 4 June and depart on 7 June.
- We do not provide electricity, water or sewage disposal services. For the sake of the environment and your fellow campers, please refrain from using a generator.
- Alternatively, you can park in the day car park, where you can move your vehicle at any time. Important: Please note that camping is not permitted there.
No problem! Here are a few solutions:
- Ask around in your local circus community – many convention-goers and artists tend to be well prepared and may have an extra tent.
- Use online marketplaces to purchase used items. As an event, we support our visitors in living sustainably.
- Still no luck?
- Send us an email using the contact form. We collect this information centrally and use it to determine demand.
Great — that's exactly the right idea and will help everyone immensely!
- Please feel free to bring your spare tent with you in case someone needs it at short notice.
- We do not yet know how much demand there will be for additional tents at this point in time. Keep an eye on your email inbox, our website and our social media channels. If necessary, we will make an announcement here in good time.
aerial artistry
As our name suggests, AC-Con specialises in aerial arts.
- Various circus tents and areas are assigned to different disciplines on site.
These include vertical cloth (silk), trapeze (duo, single and dance), vertical rope, straps (straps and loops), the aerial hoop and the vertical net. There is also a special prop area with up to six rigging points.
We welcome all circus disciplines, which is why there are designated areas for each one. The paved open space between the excavators, for example, offers plenty of room for unicycling and artistic cycling.
Feel free to explore our grounds using the interactive map.
Questions or suggestions? Send an email to circus@ac-convention.de
Your safety is of great importance to us, which is why we have implemented the following measures:
- All installations have at least one soft floor mat underneath them.
- Special spinning areas are only set up with floor runners.
- Individual rigging points may only be used with a rigger and fall protection equipment.
- Mandatory safety briefings will be held with all participants before the event begins.
We appreciate your desire to support us, but...
- We have sufficient quantities of all common aerial props on site.
- We are supported by many manufacturers and therefore have ample supplies.
Would you like to purchase a new aerial prop? Ask at the on-site information point how you can purchase your prop after AC-Con.
Do you have unique or extraordinary equipment that you would like to showcase at AC-Con?
- Great! AC-Con thrives on ideas like this.
- Send us an email at circus@ac-convention.de
Please include a few pictures of your prop and a short description. We also need detailed pictures of the suspension points, as well as a picture of your prop in use.
Please also provide the load capacity and age based on a datasheet.
Great! More rigging points mean more flexibility.
- There is plenty of space on the site for setting up all kinds of rigs. The large arena in the middle of Ferropolis has a solid paved surface.
email us circus@ac-convention.de
- Please provide us with your construction manual, load specifications, details of the age and dimensions of the rig, and pictures showing its current condition.
- After signing a liability waiver, you are welcome to bring your rig.
Important: Please arrive one day early, no later than 4 July 2025, to allow enough time to set up your rig and secure the best sleeping spot on site.
Ticket
We have divided the people visiting AC-Con Ferropolis into two categories. Here is the difference:
Visitors:
Can book tickets for shows, guided tours, and beginner workshops.
The grounds are accessible until 10:00 p.m.
This is ideal for curious visitors and families.
Participants:
Can purchase a 4-day ticket with full access.
Tickets for shows, meals, and workshops are available as additional products.
Overnight accommodations are available on site.
Receive 24-hour access to the site.
Training is possible at all rigging points.
This is only for people with at least one year of aerial arts experience.
We want you to know what you are paying for. It's not just an event; it's also a community-supported cultural project.
- We rent and design a special venue, including sanitary facilities, electricity, water, a stage area, and much more.
- Many of you invest your time, knowledge, and artistry as artists. These individuals also deserve fair compensation.
- Technology and documentation: From the stage to the camera, the equipment used for the show—including the stage, lighting, videos, and atmosphere—is part of the experience.
- Materials and interior design: Everything that transforms the venue is considered and planned for.
- Food is not included in ticket booking but can be added once you have purchased your convention ticket.
As a nonprofit organization, we calculate our prices fairly and transparently without intending to make a profit.
Many things can be arranged through the ticket shop. Simply click the link in the email to cancel or rebook your ticket.
You can also add items to the same ticket. If you have already purchased a ticket in your name, please do not purchase a new ticket.
Still having trouble? Feel free to send an email to ticket@ac-convention.de
Yes, but only if tickets are still available. Be quick and secure your ticket online!
On-site payment is only possible digitally via PayPal or real-time bank transfer. No cash sales.
⚠️ Important: As of May 1, 2025, catering cannot be booked through the caterer.
Yes, people with disabilities are welcome, too.
- There are no special tickets because all of our ticket types are accessible to everyone.
- Please note that companions of individuals with a B or H entry on their severely disabled pass receive free admission. To take advantage of this offer, please send us a short email in advance to: ticket@ac-convention.de
For participants and visitors:
- You can book shows as additional products after purchasing a convention ticket.
- Each show has a limited number of seats, so we recommend booking early.
Important:
- Admission begins 30 minutes before the start of each show.
- Your badge or ticket is required at check-in.
- Please pay attention to the signs indicating the correct entrance for your shows. For example, the Open Stage tent and the Gala tent are next to each other.
The people behind the shows work independently and make a living from their art. By supporting them, you are helping to ensure that they can continue to do so.
- Artists receive fair pay, and they can continue to practice their art.
- The technical equipment necessary for high-quality shows is financed.
- All the lighting and stage technology necessary for a unique experience is financed.
- You are also helping to create an optimal, harmonious atmosphere.
After purchasing your convention ticket, you can add internal workshops to it.
Booking process:
- Add the ticket to your shopping cart.
- Select workshops.
Important:
- There is a limited number of participants per workshop.
- Early booking is recommended.
- The available workshops are recommended for different levels, depending on the target group.
Further information about the workshops can be found in our ticket shop.
Have you never been in the air before and want to try it out?
Visitors are welcome to participate in a workshop.
- With professional guidance and supervision, you can book a workshop using your convention ticket.
- If you are arriving with a large group, we can organize an exclusive workshop for you. Please email us at ticket@ac-convention.de for more information.
You can find more information about the workshops in our ticket shop.
Yes!
We are always looking for workshop leaders.
Would you like to lead one yourself? If so, write to us.
- What would you like to offer? (Time frame, discipline, level, etc.)
- What equipment is needed?
- What is your experience and qualifications?
Mail to: circus@ac-convention.de
Hourly guided tours are offered during the day. They show you around the Ferropolis site and answer any questions you may have. You will get a behind-the-scenes glimpse, and you will have the opportunity to exchange ideas and learn from others.
Important: Please do not disturb the artists during their training or shows.
- If you are 16 or older and accompanied by an authorized person or trainer, you may participate. Please fill out a "Document for Transfer of Parental Responsibility" with your legal guardian and bring a printed copy with you.
- If you are under 16, you are welcome to visit the shows during the day for inspiration. Unfortunately, there is no overnight accommodation on site for those under 16.
We offer various support options.
Helper discounts:
If you are an active helper, we would, of course, like to accommodate you by reducing your ticket price. After all, your help should be rewarded. There are different levels depending on your level of commitment.
Please fill out our Form and we will contact you directly.
Crowdfunding:
Crowdfunding offers you the opportunity to purchase your ticket through collective financing, or even start a fundraising campaign. Together, we make it possible for 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 ever wanted to help set up a circus tent? See for yourself how we bring AC-Con to life with your help.
We would love for you to join us!
- What do you need? Gloves, safety shoes, and ear protection, if available. You will also need a water bottle. If you are staying overnight, bring a sleeping bag and a sleeping mat.
- Anything is possible, whether you can stay for two hours or up to 12 hours. Let us know how many people you would like to bring—every helping hand counts!
- To get the full experience and provide active support, we recommend planning for at least eight hours. You should also allow time for breaks.
All setup helpers will be provided with full board, so prior registration is essential.
Fill out our Form and we will get back to you.
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 mat
- Sleeping bag
- A water bottle, preferably reusable (but not glass).
- Suitable clothing for training and for your stay (see the safety concept).
- Headgear for strong sunshine or rain
- Music player
- Toiletries such as towels, a toothbrush, tampons/pads, a hairbrush, shower gel, shampoo, and lip balm.
- Bring weather-related items, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, mosquito repellent, and a rain jacket.
- Bring any necessary medication.
- Food and cooking utensils, if necessary.
- A camera for documenting training sessions and performances.
If you can think of anything else that is essential, please let us know using the contact form.
To ensure a respectful atmosphere for everyone, please leave these items at home:
- Cutting and stabbing weapons, i.e., anything that could be used as a weapon. Examples include axes, machetes, large knives with blades longer than 12 cm, sharp-edged metal parts, and crowbars.
- Glass bottles or containers
Illegal substances and drugs
- Pyrotechnics, fireworks, and flares
- Drones or other flying devices
- Animals (except certified assistance dogs)
- Generators and car batteries
This list is not exhaustive. The final decision is made by the security team on site at check-in.
If you have any questions, please send an email to orga@ac-convention.de
No. There is a strict no-fly zone above the site throughout the festival. This applies to:
drones
model airplanes
camera drones
DIY flying devices of any kind
For safety reasons, it is strictly forbidden to launch or fly drones or similar devices on the festival grounds, in the campground, or in the surrounding areas.
Violations will result in immediate expulsion from the grounds and possibly criminal charges.
Important: As organizers, we use drones that are controlled by our own pilots and have special permission.
Yes, your bike is welcome.
However, please note:
Be mindful of others.
For safety reasons and to keep the grounds accessible to everyone, cycling is only permitted at walking speed on the grounds themselves (i.e., behind the entrance).
We recommend bringing your own lock or using the free, secure parking facilities provided on site.
We accept no liability for your bicycle.
I would like to make my bicycle available to the AC-Con organization as a team bicycle.
We'd be delighted! Please send an email to orga@ac-convention.de
