JOIN OUR CIRCUS COMMUNITY!
The American Youth Circus Organization (AYCO) is a national 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. The American Circus Educators Association (ACE) is a branch of AYCO.
Photo from AYCOfest 2019 at San Diego Circus Center, Circus Runway Photography
Our MISSION
Our mission is to promote the participation of youth in circus arts and support circus educators.
AYCOfest / edcon
On alternating years, AYCO/ACE organizes the American Youth Circus Festival and Educators Conference across the nation.
AYCOfest 8/26-30/2026 - Early Bird Registration Open Now
This year’s National AYCOfest will be held at Independent Lake Camp https://www.independentlake.com
ACE SAfety Network
The ACE Safety Program is a consultation process with industry experts to help your program or school better manage the inherent risks associated with circus arts.
Latest news
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Latest news *
Ayco-fest Job Opportunities
Festival Director- Provides overall leadership for planning and execution of the festival, balancing big-picture vision with operational detail and a strong focus on participant experience and community care. READ MORE HERE
APPLY HERE -Submit Application by 5:00 pm on May 8, 2026
Head Rigger / Safety Director- Responsible for planning and executing rigging for workshops and showcases, and for overall safety oversight. READ MORE HERE
APPLY HERE -Submit Application by 5:00 pm on May 22, 2026
Program Director- Leads planning and execution of workshop programming, including outreach, curation, scheduling, and on-site coordination that supports the overall vision and goals set by the Festival Director. READ MORE HERE
APPLY HERE -Submit Application by 5:00 pm on May 8, 2026
Showcase Director- Manages planning and execution of festival showcases, including application process, performer coordination, and show delivery. READ MORE HERE
APPLY HERE -Submit Application by 5:00 pm on May 22, 2026
Volunteer / Work Study / Housing Coordinator- Oversees volunteer program and housing logistics, ensuring a supportive and inclusive experience. READ MORE HERE
APPLY HERE -Submit Application by 5:00 pm on May 22, 2026
Call for ACE Discussion & Directors Roundtable Speakers
Do you have something to share with the AYCO/ACE community? Creative program management, new education, health and/or safety insights?? We want to hear from you!
Held monthly, ACE Discussions are engaging, collaborative calls designed to bring together community members to discuss topics that matter most to the circus arts education community. Each discussion focuses on essential areas like, integrating safety practices, building community and partnerships, program development, insurance and understanding how to gather and use data to improve programs and demonstrate impact.
Held quarterly, Directors Roundtables are conversation for program directors. We spotlight timely, actionable topics to help you soar through the business seasons. From taming the January influx of new members, to preparing for summer camps, balancing the tightrope of budgets, and dazzling audiences with seasonal marketing initiatives, the Director’s Roundtable will equip you with the tools and strategies to keep your circus thriving year-round.
networking forums & community marketplace
become a member of the ayco/ace circus community
