A rush of adrenaline swept over Chifley Oval on Saturday as the Canberra Circus Festival’s market day sprang to life.

Stalls were filled with everything from juggling balls to rainbow-hued gelato, while in the middle of the field, young hula hoop performers spun their circles, one calling out with a grin: “We’re going to bring the crowd to us!”

All roads led to the central tent, open on three sides, where Canberra’s Warehouse Circus troupe dazzled the crowd with balancing acts, rope work and hoop displays that had the enthusiastic crowd applauding.

The finale – a mass show of circus skills – was a show of grace and strength.

Festival director Tom Davis beamed as he thanked the army of volunteers and spoke of the circus’ many roles: therapy, training, entertainment, and even a pathway to professional artistry.

“Five days of it – would you believe five days?” a happy Davis said, as the crowd headed for the Big Top for even more circus.

Canberra Circus Festival, Chifley Oval until October 5. All program details and bookings here