An estimated 2,000 magicians from around the globe, from China to the Virgin Islands are taking part in this week's World Championship in Magic in Stockholm, Sweden.

A report by the AP says tables floating shoulder-high, cards sailing through the air, rabbits pulled out of habits, a table levitating were just a few of the tricks the competitors were presenting.

One magician says, "Even though I know how it works, I just can't understand how it can work. That's magic for you."

Almost every old trick in the book and plenty of new ones are being conjured by the thousands of participants. Stakes are high for the top 156 top magicians who are competing in the main event for best illusionist stage show and sleight-of-hand routine.

The top three finishers are guaranteed contracts for lucrative shows in Las Vegas, Paris and Monaco.

Magician John Connelly of Seymour, Connecticut, USA said, "This is like the Olympics of magic. If you win (the main event) you're made. You'll probably make a million dollars."

The competition started Monday and will end on Saturday, but is not open to the public, only to magicians registered for the event. It is held every three years in different city with the winners getting a gold medal and a trophy but no cash.

However, for most magicians, the gathering is just a fun way to share trade secrets, learn new tricks and peddle their magical tools , the vast majority are not competing in the main event.

The influx of magicians has suddenly turned Stockholm into a conjurers' capital: Visiting magicians are giving public shows, conducting workshops and performing street acts throughout the city all week.

In the hall, dozens of professionals have also set up booths to display their skills and products. This part of the event is open to the public, and it gives the layman a chance to discover the secrets of famous magic tricks.