The premiere of the winter program at Munich's Circus Krone was interrupted by two activists on the evening of Christmas Day. They rushed into the arena and tried to unfurl a banner, prompting boos and a blackout. The intruders were removed amid audience applause, leading to arguments with staff.
On Christmas Day, Munich's Circus Krone premiered its winter program under the motto 'I. You. We. Krone.' The show features performances by artists and clowns, along with acts involving horses, camels, and lions. The circus frequently faces criticism for training wild animals like lions.
During the evening performance on December 25, 2025, two activists—a woman and a young man—rushed into the arena. Amid boos from the audience, they attempted to unfurl a banner, at which point the lights went out. Security escorted the intruders outside, where they were met with applause from spectators.
The situation escalated in front of the venue, with several people arguing loudly with staff. Police were summoned to calm the scene and requested reinforcements. It remained unclear initially whether the protest was linked to concerns over animal treatment at the circus.
The incident highlights ongoing controversies surrounding circuses with animal acts in Germany. The Circus Krone, a longstanding institution, attracts thousands of visitors annually but draws opposition from animal rights advocates.
