For more than two centuries, Circus Knie has captivated audiences with world-class performances, breathtaking horsemanship, and a rich family tradition unlike any other. As Switzerland’s National Circus, it combines spectacular acrobatics, comedy, live music, and artistic excellence into an unforgettable experience that has delighted generations of visitors.

From 24 September to 11 October 2026, Circus Knie brings its acclaimed touring production to Place Bellerive in Lausanne, offering residents and visitors the chance to witness one of Switzerland’s most iconic cultural institutions.

A family tradition dating back more than 220 years

The story of Circus Knie begins in 1803 in Innsbruck, Austria, where Friedrich Knie was studying medicine when he fell in love with an equestrian performer named Wilma. Although their romance did not last, it sparked Friedrich’s lifelong passion for the performing arts. He founded his own troupe of acrobats and tightrope walkers, laying the foundation for what would eventually become Switzerland’s most famous circus.

After travelling throughout Germany and Austria, the Knie family first arrived in Switzerland in 1814. Several generations later, the family fulfilled its dream of creating a travelling circus that would become a permanent part of Swiss cultural life.

Today, Circus Knie remains a family-owned company led by the seventh generation of the Knie family, while the eighth generation is already beginning to perform in the ring. Few entertainment companies in the world can claim such remarkable continuity across more than two centuries.

The birth of Switzerland’s National Circus

A defining moment came on 14 June 1919, when Circus Knie presented its first official performance as a travelling circus at the Schützenmatte in Bern. The same year, the family established its winter headquarters in Rapperswil, a town that continues to play an important role in the circus’s history.

Over the following decades, Circus Knie grew into Switzerland’s largest travelling circus. By the 1920s, its annual tour required more than 80 wagons to transport performers, horses, animals, equipment, offices, and living quarters across the country.

Despite facing financial challenges during the 1930s following an ambitious international production, the circus recovered and continued to expand. New winter facilities were built in Rapperswil in 1956, followed by the opening of the popular Knie Children’s Zoo in 1962, strengthening the family’s commitment to animal care and public education.

A unique blend of tradition and modern entertainment

One of the reasons Circus Knie remains so popular is its ability to preserve tradition while constantly reinventing its performances. Every year, audiences can expect a completely new production featuring internationally acclaimed artists alongside members of the Knie family.

The programme typically includes:

• World-class acrobats
• Aerial performances
• Comedy acts
• Juggling and balancing artists
• Live music
• Exceptional equestrian performances
• Special guest artists

Unlike many modern entertainment productions, Circus Knie combines classical circus artistry with contemporary staging, creating a show that appeals to both children and adults.

The famous horses of the Knie family

Horses have always been at the heart of Circus Knie’s identity. Friedrich Knie introduced equestrian performances into the circus ring in the early twentieth century, and the family’s passion for horse training has remained one of its defining characteristics ever since.

The elegant dressage routines and choreographed horse performances continue to be among the highlights of every production. These acts showcase not only technical precision but also the strong bond between trainers and their horses, reflecting generations of knowledge passed down through the Knie family.

Circus Knie in Lausanne 2026

This autumn, audiences in Lausanne will once again have the opportunity to experience Switzerland’s National Circus.

Location:
Place Bellerive
1007 Lausanne

Dates:
24 September – 11 October 2026

Set near the shores of beautiful Lake Leman, Place Bellerive provides the perfect setting for the circus’s iconic big top. Easily accessible by public transport, the venue welcomes thousands of visitors during the Lausanne stop of the national tour.

Whether you are attending with family, friends, or visiting Lausanne as a tourist, Circus Knie offers an evening of entertainment that combines tradition, artistry, and world-class performance.

More than a circus – a Swiss cultural institution

For many Swiss families, visiting Circus Knie is a cherished annual tradition passed down from generation to generation. Over more than 100 years as a travelling circus—and more than 220 years of family history—the Knie name has become synonymous with excellence, innovation, and unforgettable live entertainment.

The circus has performed for millions of spectators throughout Switzerland, continually evolving while preserving the values that made it famous: exceptional artistry, dedication to quality, and a close connection with its audience.

Unlike one-time touring productions, Circus Knie returns to Swiss cities every year with an entirely new show, making each season a unique experience even for returning visitors.

Why you should visit Circus Knie

Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or returning as part of a family tradition, Circus Knie offers one of Switzerland’s most memorable live entertainment experiences.

Highlights include:

• Switzerland’s National Circus with more than 100 years of touring history
• A family legacy spanning over 220 years
• A brand-new production every year
• International acrobats and award-winning performers
• Spectacular equestrian performances by the Knie family
• Comedy, live music, and breathtaking aerial acts
• A family-friendly show suitable for all ages
• Convenient location at Place Bellerive in Lausanne
• Performances from 24 September to 11 October 2026

If you’re looking for an unforgettable evening in Lausanne, Circus Knie is an event not to miss. Combining history, tradition, innovation, and extraordinary talent, Switzerland’s legendary travelling circus continues to enchant audiences more than two centuries after the remarkable journey of Friedrich Knie first began.