Millstreet was a colourful place last week, as jugglers and circus acts descended on the town for the European Juggling Convention. It is estimated that 2,500 people visited the north Cork town between the 19 and 27 July for the convention. It is held in a different town in Europe every year and is known as the largest event of its kind in the world. Professional and amateur acts from around 40 countries attended and performed during the festival. Events included juggling workshops, aerial acrobatics, circus shows and a parade through Millstreet.

Preparations for the event started in 2011, when a group from Ireland made a pitch to the convention’s committee in Munich. It is the second time Ireland has hosted the festival, also in Millstreet.

“The festival in 2006 was regarded as a good one and I hope this will be talked about in years to come,” says Ultan Sharkey, who helped run the event.

Organisers are hoping the event will be held in Ireland again – but not in the near future.

“It was all volunteer work and it took a lot out of everyone involved,” says Ultan. “Our respective spouses and family need us back.”