International Jugglers' Association returns to Fort Wayne

The International Jugglers' Association (IJA) will host its 79th Annual Festival in Fort Wayne, Indiana, July 27–August 2, 2026.

Festival activities will take place at the Grand Wayne Convention Center, with public performances presented at the historic Embassy Theatre. The week-long celebration features world-class performances, hands-on workshops, competitions, games, prop vendors, youth programming, and opportunities to learn from and meet jugglers from around the world. Whether you're a lifelong juggling fan or experiencing the art form for the first time, the IJA Festival offers unforgettable entertainment for audiences of all ages. In addition to workshops and festival activities, the IJA will present a full week of public performances, competitions, and community events throughout Fort Wayne.

For festival schedules, tickets, and more information, visit festival.juggle.org. 

Tuesday, July 28 – Planting the Juggling Seed
10:00 AM–12:00 PM
Allen County Public Library – Main Library Theater

This free, family-friendly community showcase introduces audiences to the joyful world of juggling through performances by beginner and professional jugglers. Following the performance, attendees are invited to stay for a free juggling lesson, making this the perfect event for anyone curious about learning to juggle.

Tuesday, July 28 – Welcome Show
Embassy Theatre
Doors Open: 7:00 PM | Show: 7:30 PM

The festival officially kicks off with the Welcome Show, featuring world-class juggling, comedy, and extraordinary performers from across the globe. Suitable for audiences of all ages, this evening offers an exciting introduction to the artistry and excitement of the IJA Festival.

Wednesday, July 29 – IJA Juggling Championships
Embassy Theatre
Doors Open: 7:00 PM | Show: 7:30 PM

Watch many of the world's finest jugglers compete in one of the most prestigious stage juggling competitions in the world. Performers showcase years of dedication, originality, and technical mastery as they compete for IJA Championship titles.

Thursday, July 30 – Joggling World Championships
8:00 AM–1:00 PM
Turnstone Center

Watch athletes combine speed, endurance, and juggling skill in one of the IJA's most unique and exciting competitions. Joggling challenges competitors to run while continuously juggling, creating a fast-paced event that is thrilling for both participants and spectators. Athletes compete for IJA and World Joggling Championship titles in this one-of-a-kind event.

Thursday, July 30 – Flow Show
Embassy Theatre
Doors Open: 7:00 PM | Show: 7:30 PM

Experience the artistry of modern flow arts featuring poi, hoops, staffs, fans, dragon staff, and other forms of object manipulation. This visually stunning production celebrates the creativity and movement that have made flow arts a favorite at festivals around the world.

Friday, July 31 – IJA Fire Night
9:00 PM
The Landing

The excitement continues outdoors with IJA Fire Night, a free public event featuring spectacular fire juggling, fire spinning, and breathtaking displays of fire arts in the heart of downtown Fort Wayne.

Saturday, August 1 – Cascade of Stars
Embassy Theatre
Doors Open: 7:00 PM | Show: 7:30 PM

The Cascade of Stars is the signature performance of the IJA Festival and is widely regarded as one of the premier juggling shows in America. Featuring internationally acclaimed performers who entertain on cruise ships, in circuses, theaters, and festivals around the world, this spectacular family-friendly showcase is the grand finale of the festival and an event not to be missed.

The International Jugglers' Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the art and sport of juggling through education, youth outreach, international competitions, and community programs around the world.