About
FISM — the Fédération Internationale des Sociétés Magiques — is the premier international body representing the global magic community. Founded in 1948 and headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland, FISM brings together over 80,000 magicians from more than 110 member societies spanning six continents. The organization's flagship event, the World Championship of Magic (WCM), is held every three years and is considered the most prestigious competition in the art of magic, attracting top performers from around the world in categories such as Stage and Close-Up magic. FISM provides a comprehensive ecosystem for magicians at every level, including the FISM Academy for education and training, a qualified judges system to ensure fair and professional competition standards, and the FISM Card program offering benefits across partner organizers and dealers. The organization also champions cultural preservation and development of magic through its UNESCO project and the Fund for Young Magicians, which supports emerging talent globally. Past Grand Prix winners include world-renowned performers from South Korea, France, Spain, Switzerland, Belgium, China-Taiwan, Italy, the United States, and Japan. The next World Championship of Magic is scheduled for Busan, South Korea in July 2028. FISM serves as the authoritative global voice for magic societies, enthusiasts, educators, and professional performers worldwide.
Key Features
- World Championship of Magic: Hosts the most prestigious magic competition in the world every three years, featuring Stage and Close-Up categories with performers from across the globe.
- FISM Academy: An educational platform offering training, governance, and development resources for magicians at all skill levels.
- FISM Judges Qualification System: A structured program to certify and qualify professional judges for FISM-sanctioned magic competitions worldwide.
- Fund for Young Magicians: A dedicated program supporting emerging young talent in the global magic community with resources and opportunities.
- FISM Card Program: A membership benefit card offering privileges and discounts through a network of partner organizers and dealers worldwide.
Use Cases
- Professional magicians seeking recognition and participation in internationally sanctioned competitions.
- Magic societies looking to affiliate with a global governing body and gain access to resources and championships.
- Young magicians applying for funding and educational support through the Fund for Young Magicians.
- Magic competition organizers applying for FISM-qualified contest status to gain international recognition.
- Enthusiasts and fans following world-class magic performances and Grand Prix winners from the World Championship.
Pros
- Global Reach: Represents 80,000+ magicians across 110+ societies in 6 continents, making it the authoritative global voice for the magic community.
- Prestigious Championships: Organizes the World Championship of Magic, the highest-profile competition in the art, with a rich history dating back to 1948.
- Educational & Support Programs: Provides structured education through FISM Academy, judge certification, and financial support for young magicians.
Cons
- Membership-Driven Access: Many resources, benefits, and participation opportunities are tied to affiliated society membership rather than open to all individuals.
- Infrequent Major Events: The flagship World Championship of Magic only takes place every three years, limiting high-profile engagement for most of the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is FISM?
FISM (Fédération Internationale des Sociétés Magiques) is the International Federation of Magic Societies, founded in 1948 in Lausanne, Switzerland. It is the world's leading organization for the art of magic, representing over 80,000 magicians from 110+ societies on 6 continents.
What is the FISM World Championship of Magic?
The World Championship of Magic (WCM) is FISM's flagship event, held every three years. It is considered the most prestigious magic competition in the world, featuring categories such as Stage and Close-Up magic, with competitors from dozens of countries.
When and where is the next FISM World Championship?
The next FISM World Championship of Magic is scheduled for July 9–14, 2028, in Busan, South Korea.
How can I become a member or affiliated society?
Individuals and magic societies can explore membership by contacting FISM directly at [email protected] or through their affiliated members page on the official website.
What is the FISM Card?
The FISM Card is a benefit program available to members that provides privileges, discounts, and access through a network of FISM partner organizers and dealers worldwide.
