Sergei Sobyanin: On May 30 — July 12 Moscow to host Idol 2026

On May 30 — July 12, Moscow will host a circus arts festival called Idol 2026, Sergei Sobyanin shares on his MAX channel.

“We are expecting 170 circus performers from 12 countries, including China, North Korea, Mexico, and Mongolia. The competition will be judged by a jury panel, the media, and spectators,” the Moscow Mayor wrote.

Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s MAX channel

Performers will present their projects on June 4 — 7; on June 10 — 12, visitors will enjoy a gala show featuring Russian and international artists.

The Idol 2026 festival is expected to attract over 80,000 spectators.

It has been held in Moscow since 2013, involving over 1,900 circus performers from 50 countries, including Austria, Argentina, Brazil, Vietnam, Spain, Italy, Germany, China, Cuba, Mexico, Mongolia, Poland, USA, Tanzania, Philippines, Chile, Ethiopia, and many others.

The festival’s unique style perfectly combines the rich history and traditions of Russian circus arts with present-day trends in the show industry. Every year, Idol introduces a new artistic image and theme, offering a truly unforgettable experience for viewers. All shows are performed together with the Great Moscow Circus ballet troupe.

People’s Artist of Russia Askold Zapashny is the festival’s Artistic Director and Chief Director; the show’s host and general producer is People’s Artist of Russia Edgard Zapashny.