Pope Francis has financially supported the Circus of Solidarity event, which is being staged at the French Medrano Circus in north Rome for vulnerable people.
Archbishop Konrad Krajewski, the Vatican's Almoner - the person who oversees giving to the poor - said: "This gift... will hopefully become for our poorest brothers and sisters an encouragement to overcome the bitterness and difficulties of life, which often seem insurmountable."
Guests shall also be treated to supper, as well as the care of doctors and nurses supported by the Holy See's mobile health clinic.
The Pope said during one of his recent General Audience speeches: "Circus performers create beauty; this is good for the soul, for we greatly need beauty!"
Circus of Solidarity has been supported by businessman Fabrizio Grandi and directors of the Medrano Circus, the Casartelli family.
Braian Casartelli said Thursday's event would be "a marvellous evening in honour of the many people of Rome who live in difficulty."