More than 400 clowns from Latin American countries are in Mexico City for their annual conference.
The Fraternity of Latin Clowns opened the 11th Clown Convention in a theatre.
The convention, which continues until Friday, features workshops, classes and competitions.
Conference organiser Jaime Segovia described clowning as a "serious business".
Most of the clowns are Mexican, but delegates have arrived from many Central American countries.
"Callejeros", street clowns, tend to perform routines for an adult audience.
White-faced clowns, known as "carablancas", perform for children.
"Vagabundo" clowns base their routines on the work of Charlie Chaplin.
Clowning in Mexico has traditionally been a male-dominated profession but increasing numbers of female clowns are attending the convention.