An immersive world awaits...

THE GREATEST CIRCUS - BRAND NEW FOR 2026

Each year we transform Athena’s flagship event space into a truly immersive world that hosts our incredible Christmas parties.

For 2026 we introduce a new theme, ‘The Greatest Circus’; as well as brand new cirque-style aerial entertainment. It’s time to step inside a magical world…

 

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THE GREATEST CIRCUS – A MAGNIFICENT JOURNEY THROUGH THE NIGHT

 

Your spectacular night has arrived as you step towards the most extraordinary show on Earth. The magnificent venue glows against the winter sky, a beacon of light, music and anticipation. As the grand doors sweep open, you are welcomed into a world of wonder; ‘The Greatest Circus’ – where energy surges through the air and every moment promises amazement.

Leaving the chill of the evening behind, you glide through the venue, alive with colour, movement and celebration. The devilish Ringmaster heralds your arrival as you make your way further into the venue to meet friends and colleagues.

The buzz and excitement is overwhelming as exotic and timeless characters of ‘The Greatest Circus’ mingle with you and your fellow partygoers, serving delectable and delicious canapés to one and all.

Choose from four fully stocked bars pouring premium ice-cold beers, fine wines and crisp spirits, or make your way to our exclusive cocktail bar where expert mixologists wait to tempt you with colourful cocktails created to order.

As the music rises, so too does the drama. Gravity-defying aerialists soar overhead. Contortionists twist in astonishing displays of flexibility. Acrobats push the limits of human possibility in breathtaking performances that unfold before your eyes.

Beyond the main arena, even more excitement awaits. Try your luck at the fun casino tables or challenge your friends on our brand-new fairground stalls. Seek insight from a mysterious fortune teller, capture the moment on our selfie pod or retreat to a quieter corner to enjoy freshly ground coffee and indulgent chocolates.

As the evening draws to an inevitable end, your heart is lifted as you reflect on the fun filled night you and your party have enjoyed. You’ll always remember the party where you left reality at the door and joined The Greatest Circus when it came to town!

 

An evening of electrifying entertainment

FEATURING EUROPE'S LEADING CIRQUE ACTS

Every year, the production team behind the renowned Christmas parties at Athena takes on the exciting challenge of creating a show that surpasses expectations. With many guests returning to Christmas Party World year after year, every production must be bigger, bolder and even more spectacular than the last.

Driven by the creativity and innovation of Vivid’s award-winning team, alongside our exceptional partners from across the UK and Europe, each new show is months in the making. From reviewing guest feedback and developing fresh concepts to refining every performance, the journey begins long before the curtain rises.

While the full production remains a closely guarded secret until opening night, we’re delighted to offer a glimpse of what’s in store. Throughout the evening, experience the grace and precision of our aerialists as they take to the air with mesmerising fire dancing and double straps routines. As the night unfolds, the atmosphere ignites with an aero roller skate duet, bringing a thrilling surge of energy, movement and artistry. Prepare to be captivated as contortion and hair hanging push the boundaries of strength, flexibility and fearless performance, delivering an unforgettable ending to an extraordinary evening.

 

World-class talent. An unmissable spectacle. A Christmas experience like no other.

 

What's included

AN UNFORGETTABLE EVENING UNDER ONE ROOF

ENTERTAINMENT

Hair-raising entertainment and European Cirque acts throughout the evening

Spectacular ’Greatest Circus’ theming

After dinner disco & professional DJ

After dinner entertainment*
Brand new fairground stalls for 2026!
Fun charity casino
Selfie pod
Fortune teller

 

DINING

Delicious canapé reception

3-course seated dinner

Fresh coffee & chocolate truffles

Midnight breakfast

BARS

Only premium brands

Beautifully themed main bars

Professional cocktail bar

Table service for drink orders during your meal

VENUE

Leicester’s flagship events venue

City centre location

Professional event security

Free cloakroom

Designated taxi pick up / drop off point

2 minute walk from the train station

 

*These items are optional – there will be a small charge on the evening
**After dinner entertainment – profits support our chosen charities for 2026

Party itinerary

A SPECTACULAR EVENING AWAITS...

18:30
Venue opens / delicious canapé reception
20:00
Call to dinner
20:25
Dinner is served
22:00
Disco & after dinner entertainment
00:00
Midnight breakfast
00:45
Bar closes
01:00
Carriages