Circus Fest kicks off today in the capital city.

The St. John’s International CircusFest is returning this year, featuring artists from across Canada and Europe.

There will be a full week of events with shows at several locations including the LSPU Hall, Arts and Culture Centre and Bannerman Park.

Artistic director Anahareo Doelle says each year, the festival picks a country of focus, with this year being Germany. She says it’s inspiring for circus artists in the province to be exposed to outside acts.

She says Germany has a culture rooted in circus, which leads to a blend of traditional and contemporary. She says they also have unique acts like “The Iron Jaw” and hair hanging acrobatics.

Tickets to the events can be purchased online.