Paderborn Christmas Circus Shatters Records: “The Wizard of Oz” Announced for 2026/27
PADERBORN, 27 February 2026 — Following a historic season that saw every single seat filled, the Paderborner Weihnachtscircus has officially concluded its 2025/2026 run with unprecedented success. Organisers Sabrina and Lars Wasserthal confirmed today that the production reached a “tearful finale” marked by 57 standing ovations, cementing the event’s status as a premier cultural staple in East Westphalia.
A Season of Superlatives: 2025/2026 Review
The recently concluded season, which featured the theme “Beauty and the Beast” (Die Schöne und das Biest), surpassed all previous commercial and artistic benchmarks. For the first time in the circus’s history, the season was completely sold out before the final curtain call.
Key Performance Indicators
| Metric | 2025/2026 Season Results |
|---|---|
| Total Attendance | Approx. 47,500 Guests |
| Number of Shows | 57 |
| Occupancy Rate | 100% (Sold Out) |
| Historical Growth | From 36,000 (2023) to 47,500 (2026) |
Looking Ahead: “The Wizard of Oz” and New Infrastructure
The management has wasted no time in announcing the theme for the upcoming 2026/2027 winter season: “The Wizard of Oz” (Der Zauberer von Oz). This new production aims to build on the momentum of the previous year’s success with significant upgrades to the visitor experience.
Modernised Tent Facilities
To accommodate the growing demand, the Paderborner Weihnachtscircus is transitioning to a completely new, three-part tent system. Moving away from the previous Austrian-sourced installations, the circus will debut a modern facility designed to provide better sightlines and increased comfort for the expected 50,000+ visitors in the coming year.
Artistic Direction
Under the creative leadership of the Wasserthals, the show continues to blend traditional circus arts with modern storytelling. Recent seasons have featured international talent with experience in prestigious troupes such as Cirque du Soleil, alongside specialised acts like sand painting (Sandmalerei) which proved a highlight during the “Beauty and the Beast” run.
The Evolution of a Paderborn Tradition
Since its inception in 2021, the Paderborner Weihnachtscircus has seen a rapid ascent in the German entertainment landscape. Starting as a bold new production in a competitive market, it has consistently increased its capacity:
- 2021: Launch of the first production in Paderborn.
- 2023: Reached 36,000 spectators with nearly all shows sold out.
- 2024/25: Surpassed 45,000 guests, breaking previous attendance records.
- 2025/26: Achieved a record 47,500 guests across 57 shows.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When does the Paderborn Christmas Circus typically take place?
The season usually runs from mid-December through early January, covering the Christmas and New Year period. Specific dates for the 2026/2027 “Wizard of Oz” season are expected to be released in the autumn.
Where is the circus located?
The event is held at the Maspernplatz or Fürstenweg area in 33102 Paderborn, Germany. The central location allows for easy access via public transport and local parking facilities.
Who are the founders of the Paderborner Weihnachtscircus?
The circus was founded and is currently managed by Sabrina and Lars Wasserthal, who serve as the creative minds behind the annual productions.
How can I buy tickets for the 2026/2027 season?
Due to the 100% sell-out rate of the previous season, early booking is highly recommended. Tickets are typically made available through the official circus website and local ticket agencies in Paderborn several months before the premiere.