Day: 1 December 2025

Monaco’s holiday season is officially underway, and Metropole Shopping Monte-Carlo has once again transformed into a festive wonderland. Until 10th January, the shopping centre is inviting families and visitors to explore Santa’s Toy Factory — a dazzling, immersive experience designed to bring the magic of Christmas to life.

From the moment visitors enter, they are greeted by a shimmering snowflake, leading them into an enchanting journey inspired by Santa’s legendary workshop in Lapland. Inside, the space comes alive with glittering decorations, toy-filled machines, and whimsical scenes featuring elves at work. A grand Christmas tree stands at the centre of the display, alongside a special mailbox where children can post letters to Santa.

Until 28th December, Santa himself will be in residence at the shopping centre. He will welcome families from Monday to Saturday between 10:00 and 19:30, and on Sundays in December from 11:00 to 19:00. Children will also be able to send him letters via the on-site mailbox and receive a personalised reply at home, provided they include their full address.

Throughout December, Metropole Shopping Monte-Carlo will host a variety of festive activities. Creative, musical and gourmet workshops led by Santa’s elves will offer fun and engaging moments for children and their families. In addition, from 1st December to 24th December, a digital Advent Calendar on Instagram will give followers the chance to win daily gifts provided by the centre’s boutiques.

This year’s celebrations also feature four exclusive pop-up spaces located across the shopping centre. Visitors will find refined home fragrances, seasonal decorations, design pieces, and gourmet Swiss chocolate – all perfect for holiday gifting.

With 80 boutiques and six restaurants, Metropole Shopping Monte-Carlo is open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 19:30, and on Sundays in December from 11:00 to 19:00. Special holiday hours are in place on Monday 8th December, from 11:00 to 19:00.

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Photo source: Shopping Metropole 

Chef Marcel Ravin, one of Monaco’s most celebrated culinary figures, has been awarded the Ordre du Mérite Agricole, a French honour recognising individuals who have made significant contributions to agriculture. The distinction was presented on 20th November by the French Ambassador to Monaco, Jean d’Haussonville, during a ceremony attended by Prince Albert II.

Already a Chevalier of the Légion d’Honneur and the creative force behind several Michelin‑starred restaurants, Chef Ravin now adds the “Poireau” to his list of accolades. The honour acknowledges his long-standing commitment to championing producers, promoting sustainable agriculture, and elevating the role of responsibly sourced ingredients in haute cuisine.

Ambassador d’Haussonville praised Ravin’s influence on both sides of the food chain. “It is through tables like yours that our agriculture regains meaning and a future,” he said. “Your level of excellence demands high‑quality products and pushes our producers to aim even higher.”

Chef Ravin’s approach to gastronomy is deeply rooted in respect for origin, seasonality and craftsmanship. At Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, he has been instrumental in expanding the use of local and sustainable supply chains, drawing on the gardens of the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, the Domaine d’Agerbol, and regional maritime producers. His restaurant Elsa earned the Ethical and Environmental Responsibility Prize from La Liste in 2023, while Blue Bay received the Restaurant Engagé certification in 2021.

With two Michelin stars at Blue Bay at the Monte‑Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, and one at Elsa at Monte-Carlo Beach, Ravin continues to shape the principality’s gastronomic identity while championing the work of farmers, fishermen and artisans.

Receiving the award, Ravin reflected on the personal meaning behind the honour. “It is more than a distinction—it is a return to my roots,” he said. “My journey began with my feet in the soil and my eyes on the hands that plant, prune and harvest. Before the heat of the kitchen, I knew the earth. Before the stars, I knew the mud. I learned that agriculture is not just a profession; it is a transmission.”

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Photo source: MCSBM

A new cultural event blending cabaret glamour with charitable purpose is coming to Monaco this December. On Tuesday 16th December, the elegant Marius Restaurant will host Cabaret FAM, an immersive evening of performance and solidarity in aid of Fight Aids Monaco, the association founded and presided over by -Princess Stéphanie.

The event will feature a special performance by renowned transformist artist Manel Dalgó. Known for his refined stage presence and artistic expression, Dalgó will be joined by two dancers for an intimate, floor-level cabaret show—breaking with traditional theatre formats and bringing the audience into close connection with the performers.

The venue will be transformed into a modern cabaret space with lounge-style seating, mood lighting, and a visual aesthetic inspired by the contemporary cabaret scene. Guests will be invited to enjoy a curated à la carte menu and drinks throughout the evening, all within the stylish ambiance of Marius.

Tickets to the event are priced at €40, with the entire amount donated directly to Fight Aids Monaco. Since 2004, the association has been supporting people living with HIV through psychological, medical, and social assistance, while also advocating for education, prevention, and humanitarian outreach. Events like Cabaret FAM not only raise crucial funds, but also serve to highlight the importance of inclusion and ongoing awareness in the Principality.

As the year draws to a close, Cabaret FAM promises to offer something both entertaining and meaningful: a night of art, empathy, and engagement in support of one of Monaco’s most dedicated charitable organisations.

For tickets, click here.

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Photo provided