Dresden Christmas circus granted permission to continue operating along the Elbe River
The Dresden Christmas Circus has secured a reprieve, as the city administration has withdrawn its eviction order issued last week. Previously, the circus had opposed the order with a court injunction. The seemingly premature eviction order was due to concerns about flooding at the Pieschener Allee fairgrounds.
Initially, the tents were meant to be dismantled due to impending flooding, but the circus refused their disassembly, citing the falling water level of the Elbe River and ensuring that the tents remained secure and dry. The resumption of performances took place on Friday, with a large crowd attending the 10 a.m. show, capturing memories in front of the grand tents.
According to circus spokesman Dirk Porn, the measures at hand were deemed disproportionate. He further emphasized that the predicted water level had not been reached, and neither the audience nor the tents were ever in danger. Those who had attended previous shows but missed performances due to the eviction order will be rescheduled, and refunds will be issued in select cases.
Initially, the city of Dresden accused the circus of endangering flood protection by remaining on the fairgrounds. Investigations were planned to determine whether the location along the Elbe river, particularly below the Marienbrücke, remained permissible under the circumstances. The city argued that its floodplain regulations demanded immediate evacuation when the Elbe water level in Dresden reached 590 centimeters, which had not yet been reached. When the water level dropped to 504 centimeters, the Christmas Circus should have vacated the site according to its own flood management plan agreed upon with the city during the summer.
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In the days leading up to the eviction order, the city repeatedly reminded the circus of its duty but was met with refusals. The city claimed that it had offered support, which was reportedly refused. However, circus spokesman Dirk Porn refuted this account, stating that no offers for assistance had been extended to them. He expressed his relief at the resumption of performances, with the Christmas Circus now scheduled to remain in Dresden until January 7.
Though the city's floodplain regulations impact the permissions for temporary structures such as circuses during flood risk periods, consult recent local government announcements or news reports focusing on cultural events and urban planning in Dresden for more specific and current information regarding the circumstances of the Dresden Christmas Circus eviction and the flood risk regulations at Pieschener Allee. Guests seeking information or tickets for performances may reach the Christmas Circus via phone at 0180/3302330 or email at [email protected]. For up-to-date news, please visit here.
Despite the initial concerns about flooding at the Pieschener Allee fairgrounds, the Dresden Christmas Circus successfully appealed the eviction order, ensuring the continuation of their outdoor-living cultural experience until January 7. Home-and-garden enthusiasts seeking an alternative attraction may find delight in visiting the grand tents, as the rescheduled performances are now underway.
