Espace Léo Ferré concluded its musical programming on Saturday evening with a nostalgic celebration of 1990s and 2000s hits, marking the end of an era before the venue undergoes a complete transformation.
The Monaco Town Hall organised the final event in partnership with Ten Production, bringing together artists who defined two decades of popular music. Presenters Charly and Lulu, known for hosting the television programme Hit Machine, guided the audience through an evening of era-defining tracks.
Artists and atmosphere
The lineup featured Zouk Machine, Las Ketchup, L5, Boris, Allan Théo, Colonel Reyel, and Leee John from Imagination, each performing their best-known songs. DJs Miko and Tino opened and closed the evening, keeping the dancefloor active throughout the celebration.
The event drew a capacity crowd eager to experience the venue in its current configuration one final time. The festive atmosphere reflected both the nostalgia for the music and the significance of the venue’s imminent closure for renovation.
Transformation ahead
Mayor Georges Marsan explained the choice of event for the closing night. “We wanted to offer a musical event in a very festive spirit. The public was able to sing and dance with the artists who defined the 1990s and 2000s,” he said. “And in a few months, after summer 2026, we will welcome the public to a completely new setting, Live by Léo Ferré.”
The renamed and redesigned venue will focus on live performance programming when it reopens in September 2026. Until spring, Espace Léo Ferré remains available for private event bookings before construction begins.
The transformation represents a significant investment in Monaco’s cultural infrastructure, with the new Live by Léo Ferré designed specifically to accommodate live entertainment in the Principality. Details of the renovation scope and the venue’s new capacity have not yet been announced.
Monaco has officially launched MaPlacePMR, a mobile application that shows people with reduced mobility which parking spaces are free in real time.
First announced on December 3rd during Handipact Day, the app was presented in detail during a press conference Monday morning.
For this project, magnetic sensors were installed in 68 street level disabled parking spaces to monitor occupancy and relay information instantly to users. MaPlacePMR is accessible through the YourMonaco app but also via a dedicated website at maplacempr.gouv.mc and is free to use.
“This policy of Handipact has the objective not to constrain but to convince and to bring as many people as possible along in this adventure,” said Christophe Robino, Minister of Health and Social Affairs.
The initiative brought together the Department of Social Affairs and Health, the Digital Services Department, the Urban Planning Department, Monaco Telecom, technology provider Urbiotica, and the Monaco Association of the Motor Disabled.
Smart Sensors that last a decade
The circular sensors, fixed to the road with four screws, detect the magnetic field of parked vehicles. When a car arrives or leaves, the sensor transmits the status change.
Georges Gambarini from the Digital Services Department explained: “This network doesn’t have the objective of sending enormous amounts of data. It has the objective of being capable of sending little data, but sending it with enormous reliability, and enormous stability in its signal.”
Interestingly, the battery powered sensors need no electrical connection and should last between three and ten years. Meanwhile, five remaining spaces, currently blocked by construction sites, will be equipped in early 2026.
More than just availability
Each parking space comes with photographs and detailed characteristics such as kerb positions, nearby posts or walls, whether parking is angled or perpendicular. These details matter when wheelchair users need to access their vehicle boot and a wall directly behind a space prevents the boot from opening fully.
Additionally, the application’s interface works for colour-blind users too, with available spaces marked green with a tick, and occupied spaces showing red with a cross.
Lionel Galfré, technical adviser for disability issues, further explained their approach: “MaPlacePMR is an idea that was born from the ground up. We want it to come from those affected, for those on the ground to be brought along with us.”
Users can also report problems through the app such as malfunctioning sensors and blocked access, with anonymous feedback sent to the relevant authorities.
Data that will shape future policy
The collected data feeds directly into the government’s data lake, revealing occupancy patterns and high-demand areas. Gambarini highlighted this dual purpose: “We’re really in this logic of digital technology that will allow us to make information accessible, but also digital technology that will be capable, through data processing and cross-referencing, of potentially enriching new decision making tomorrow for new PMR spaces or modifications.”
The new project complements the StreetNap app launched earlier this year, which helps people with reduced mobility navigate Monaco on the ground. Together they form part of the nine-pillar Handipact strategy.
“The question of disability is not something that only concerns people with disabilities,” Robino said. “We are all concerned, we must all participate, we must all bring our small stone to the edifice so that the objective is very clearly stated: that Monaco becomes a model city in terms of inclusion.”
During 2026, the system will expand to include real time availability in public car parks, starting with those already equipped with monitoring systems like Parc des Moulins and Louis Chiron, creating a complete view of accessible parking across Monaco
Monaco’s annual U Giru de Natale brought nearly 1,900 runners to the streets on Sunday morning for the 29th edition of the Christmas race. Organised by the Association Sportive de la Sûreté Publique (ASSP), the 10-kilometre event started at 10:30am from Boulevard Albert I at Port Hercule, marking the third-highest participation in the race’s history.
Rugby player Antoine Zeghdar signalled the start as runners set off on a route that included stretches of the Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit and passed through La Condamine, Larvotto, and Monaco-Ville. The course, which began and ended at Port Hercule near the Christmas Market, featured the demanding elevation changes and iconic landmarks that have become signatures of the event.
Winners and festive atmosphere
Tom Maubert, a 21-year-old from Nice, won the men’s category with a time of 31 minutes 19 seconds. Italy’s Camille Magliano claimed the women’s title, finishing in 36 minutes 32 seconds.
Beyond competitive times, the race embraced the Christmas spirit with many participants wearing festive costumes, from reindeer antlers to Santa hats. The inclusive atmosphere welcomed runners of all abilities, from seasoned athletes to casual joggers, reinforcing the community nature of the event.
Race director Bastien Isaia celebrated the turnout, describing it as a strong recovery following challenging post-Covid years. “The goal has always been to combine safety, enjoyment, and the breathtaking views of Monaco for every participant,” he said, praising the 100 volunteers who supported the event. “They are the special ingredient behind the race, making sure every runner has a smooth and memorable experience.”
Event organisation
The event partnered with charity Be Safe, donating €2,000 to support their work. The organisation follows the race’s tradition of community engagement.
With the 29th edition complete, organisers have already begun planning for the milestone 30th U Giru de Natale in 2025, which promises new surprises for participants.
Monegasque artist Philippe Pastor has inaugurated his latest exhibition, North Pole, in Milan, presenting works that explore the symbolism of ice, cold and polar regions threatened by climate change in a former industrial hangar near the Fondazione Prada.
The 2,000 square metre space at Robilant + Voena gallery showcases ten large-scale paintings that blend aesthetic beauty with environmental messaging, continuing Pastor’s 35-year commitment to raising awareness about ecological issues through art. The exhibition, hosted by one of Milan’s most prestigious galleries, demonstrates the artist’s ability to unite technical mastery with the transmission of urgent environmental messages.
Defending life through aesthetics
Pastor, who works from a 1,700 square metre studio in Spain, creates four-by-four-metre canvases from which he later extracts the compositions he considers most significant. His approach is guided by a search for truth through raw materials, eschewing artificial embellishments in favour of natural pigments, sometimes sourced from the Atlas Mountains.
“Every time Philippe Pastor begins a new series, he tackles a new environmental emergency,” explains Caroline Corbetta, curator of the exhibition. “Whether it’s the melting of the North Pole or ocean pollution, he constantly reminds us of the problems we humans are causing to our planet.”
The artist himself describes his philosophy simply: “What glitters is not authentic.” This conviction drives his work towards materials and themes that reflect genuine ecological concerns rather than superficial beauty.
Monaco roots meet global environmental commitment
Despite his international career, Pastor maintains strong connections to his homeland. “Monaco is above all my country, my roots, where I was born, but I realise that my life can only be in nature. In the middle of forests, in the wind. I need that connection to nature,” he says.
Since the beginning of his career, environmental protection has been the central theme of his artistic practice. His emblematic exhibition “The Burned Trees” left a lasting impression, offering a poetic yet poignant reflection on the fragility of natural ecosystems. This commitment aligns with Monaco’s own ecological initiatives, with Pastor serving as a cultural ambassador carrying the Principality’s values onto the international stage.
Immediate connection with Milanese gallery
Edmondo di Robilant, co-owner of the gallery hosting the exhibition, describes an immediate connection with Pastor’s work. “His sensitivity to these challenges, his use of natural pigments and his ability to create canvases that reflect the upheavals of our era make him an artist profoundly attuned to the contemporary world,” di Robilant notes. “His pictorial language touches the public because it speaks directly to the shifting atmosphere of the 21st century.”
The Milan exhibition showcases works of great gestural intensity, where environmental messaging blends with striking visual impact. Some pieces incorporate natural elements such as oak leaves, chosen for their ability to withstand the passage of time, creating a dialogue between artistic permanence and ecological fragility.
Art as vehicle for awareness
Pastor views his paintings as more than aesthetic objects. “My paintings are the medium through which the message is communicated,” he states. “There is an entire life in these paintings, a philosophy that emerges. That’s what interests me. Painting is an obsession. One must not try to do well, but do as one feels it must be done.”
This philosophy has earned Pastor recognition in prestigious international collections and established his position among the most followed contemporary artists. His works circulate across global markets, appealing to audiences drawn both to the singular aesthetic of his paintings and to the depth of his environmental commitments.
The “North Pole” exhibition represents a new chapter in Pastor’s journey, confirming the coherence and strength of his approach. By transforming ecological urgency into powerful visual statements, he creates spaces for dialogue between art collectors, environmental advocates and the general public, united around a shared concern for the planet’s future.
The exhibition remains open to the public in Milan, offering visitors an opportunity to experience how monumental art can serve as an environmental messenger, bridging aesthetic excellence with vital ecological awareness.
Dubai Opera will host a rare convergence of classical music talent on 22nd December when José Carreras and Plácido Domingo reunite for the ‘Stars of the Century’ gala. The performance brings together two of the most celebrated tenors of their generation with the Mariinsky Theatre Orchestra under conductor Valery Gergiev.
The event marks the pinnacle of Dubai Opera’s tenth anniversary celebrations. Soprano Hibla Gerzmava joins the programme, which spans opera, zarzuela, Broadway, operetta, and popular songs, reflecting Dubai’s multicultural character.
The Mariinsky Orchestra and Gergiev
Valery Gergiev, one of classical music’s most influential conductors, leads the Mariinsky Theatre Orchestra, recognised as one of the world’s premier ensembles. Under Gergiev’s direction since 1988, the orchestra has developed a distinctive sound rooted in Russian musical tradition whilst maintaining a global presence through regular international tours and recordings.
The orchestra’s participation elevates the evening beyond a vocal showcase into a full symphonic event. The combination of Gergiev’s conducting with the performances of Carreras and Domingo creates a rare alignment of operatic and orchestral artistry on a single stage.
A partnership revisited
Carreras and Domingo’s reunion recalls their work together as part of The Three Tenors alongside the late Luciano Pavarotti. The partnership, which began in 1990, introduced opera to vast new audiences through stadium concerts and recordings that sold millions of copies worldwide.
Carreras, whose career spans over 50 years, has balanced his performing schedule with humanitarian work through the José Carreras Leukaemia Foundation, established after his own recovery from the disease in the late 1980s. Domingo remains active as both performer and conductor, having sung over 150 roles across opera houses on six continents whilst serving in various artistic leadership positions.
Programme and performers
The evening’s repertoire moves across musical traditions and continents. The programme includes operatic arias, Spanish zarzuela excerpts, Broadway standards, operetta selections, and internationally recognised songs, performed by the three soloists with full orchestral accompaniment.
Hibla Gerzmava has performed at major venues including the Bolshoi Theatre, Metropolitan Opera, and Teatro alla Scala. Her repertoire centres on Russian and Italian opera, with particular recognition for her interpretations of Tchaikovsky and Verdi heroines.
Dubai Opera milestone
The gala caps a year of programming celebrating Dubai Opera’s first decade since opening in 2016. The venue, designed to resemble a traditional Arabian dhow, has hosted over 1,500 performances across opera, ballet, classical music, theatre, and contemporary genres.
The Bal de Noël returned to the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo on Friday evening for its 20th anniversary, drawing Monaco society and international guests for an evening that has become a definitive highlight of the Principality’s Christmas calendar. Since its founding in 2005, the gala has evolved into one of Monaco’s most prestigious charity events, this year raising a record sum for the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation.
Guests arrived to champagne on the iconic Salle Empire terrace, overlooking the Place du Casino illuminated in its festive splendour. Inside, the historic hall’s gold-gilded interior provided an opulent backdrop for the evening. Narmino’s signature floral arrangements complemented the Belle Époque architecture, whilst each table was set with silver, crystal, and bottles of Xerjoff fragrance.
Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene at the 20th anniversary of the Bal de Noël with Founder Sandrine Knoell. Credit: Michael Alesi, Prince’s Palace
Held under the High Patronage of Princess Charlene of Monaco, the evening was graced by both Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene, underscoring the importance of the evening.
“Having both Their Serene Highnesses there meant so much, it was a recognition I deeply appreciated,” said event founder Sandrine Knoell. “All the guests were delighted to see them both. You could see that Prince Albert was genuinely happy to be beside Princess Charlene and was proud to be supporting her.”
The gala raised a record €451,000 through a Sotheby’s auction and generous donations. Knoell orchestrated the celebration alongside members of the International Action Committee, whilst Princess Charlene’s brother Gareth Wittstock, who serves as secretary of her Foundation, joined the evening’s distinguished guests.
“We extend our sincere congratulations to Sandrine for the tremendous success of last night’s gala,” Wittstock said publicly. “Your dedication and hard work toward this event have not gone unnoticed, and we are truly appreciative. A heartfelt thank you to all the supporters who attended and supported the Princess Charlene Foundation and its important cause. We are deeply grateful to each and every one of you.”
Princess Charlene with her brother and Secretary of the Princess Charlene Foundation Gareth Wittstock, alongside Sandrine Knoell. Photo credit: Michael Alesi, Prince’s Palace
Entertainment came courtesy of performers dressed in elaborate Baroque costumes, complete with towering powdered wigs, who serenaded guests with contemporary hits. The juxtaposition of historical grandeur and modern music captured the essence of the evening itself — a celebration rooted in tradition yet vibrant with contemporary purpose.
Photo credit: Alain Duprat
An evening of exceptional lots
Sotheby’s experts Olivier Valmier and Louise Grethel presided over an auction that offered rare experiences and treasures befitting the occasion. A guided tour of the Maison Valentino archive in Rome promised an intimate glimpse into haute couture history, whilst an exceptional 2.07-carat royal blue natural unheated sapphire from Sri Lanka was a breathtaking inclusion.
Wine connoisseurs bid on Saint-Émilion Grand Cru bottles engraved in fine gold, and travel enthusiasts vied for a seven-night cruise aboard the luxurious Explora Journeys.
The evening’s crown jewel, however, was a guitar unlike any other. Carved from ancient chestnut wood and finished with delicate white mother-of-pearl inlay, the Nancy-shaped instrument was personally designed and crafted by Fabrizio Paoletti. Bearing the coat of arms of the Principality of Monaco alongside the Foundation’s logo, the bespoke creation had been personally signed by both Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene, transforming it from a musical instrument into a piece of Monaco history.
Photo credit: Alain Duprat
Two decades of tradition
For Knoell, the evening held particular resonance. The Bal de Noël began over 20 years ago, inspired by the birth of her son Alan. “It was fantastic for my son to be there with us, to see what can happen over two decades, and how certain things can affect your life in such positive ways,” she reflected.
The evening reached its crescendo with a sparkling five-tier birthday cake in white and gold — incidentally matching Princess Charlene’s flowing gown — with Gareth Wittstock and Alan joining Prince Albert II and Sandrine Knoell on stage.
In a surprise moment, the International Action Committee presented Princess Charlene with the inaugural ‘Monaco Star’ award, a new trophy honouring individuals dedicated to children’s welfare. The committee chose the Princess as the first recipient in recognition of her work through the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, which the Bal de Noël has supported since 2016.
The International Action Committee of the Bal de Noël. Photo credit: Alain Duprat
Monaco society in attendance
The guest list read like a who’s who of Monaco and international society. Princess Camilla de Bourbon des Deux-Siciles arrived with her daughters Princess Maria Carolina and Princess Maria Chiara, joining an International Action Committee that included Donatella Campioni, Lady Monika del Campo Bacardi of Bayfield Hall, Arne and Anette Fredly, Inna Maier, Elena Lukovnikova, Francesca Marinelli Halpryn, Gregory and Katerina Stassinopoulos, and Angelique Vizirgianakis.
Television personality Victoria Silvstedt mingled with elite guests, whilst SBM Monaco president Stéphane Valeri represented the venue that has hosted the gala throughout its two-decade history and this year became an important partner. The room buzzed with Monaco’s business elite and international visitors, all gathered for an evening that has become a highlight of the Principality’s Christmas season.
Princess Camilla de Bourbon des Deux-Siciles arrived with her daughters Princess Maria Carolina and Princess Maria Chiara, with Anna Hu and daughter Ngok Bella. Photo credit: Alain Duprat
Luxury partners elevate the experience
The Italian perfume house Xerjoff, coincidentally celebrating its own 20th anniversary, brought an olfactory dimension to the evening. Founder Sergio Momo attended as his house’s signature fragrances graced each table, with guests receiving special Bal de Noël edition perfume boxes and scented candles from the perfumery. The scents mingled with the visual splendour provided by Anna Hu High Jewelry, whose La Rose Gracieuse brooch — centred with a vivid fancy yellow diamond — served as a glittering reminder of the evening’s elegance.
Wine flowed from carefully selected sources including SGC Wine Estates and La Scolca, whilst Narmino had transformed the Salle Empire with floral arrangements that captured the magic of a Monte-Carlo Christmas.
The Bal de Noël is held in the iconic Salle Empire of the Hôtel de Paris, with the terrace seen here featuring a special Xerjoff bottle in celebration of the Italian perfumer’s 20th anniversary. Photo credit: Alain Duprat
A legacy of giving
In her foreword in the evening’s booklet, Princess Charlene reflected on the significance of both Christmas and the Bal de Noël’s milestone. “Christmas symbolises the Beginning and the Hope—a time when families come together and we reflect on the year whilst enjoying time with those we love,” she wrote. “One of the principles of Christianity is sharing with and taking care of those in need, especially children, who are at the centre of my Foundation’s work.”
She thanked all those who have supported the event throughout its two decades. “Le Bal de Noël is celebrating this year its 20th anniversary and has contributed since 2016 to help my Foundation achieve its goals. It has become more than a social gathering — it is a valued partner in our mission.”
Guests took to the dancefloor following dinner and auction, with DJ Andrea Mendoza and saxophonist keeping the celebration going into the night. Photo credit: Alain Duprat
Following the dinner and auction, guests took to the dancefloor as DJ Andrea Mendoza and a saxophonist transformed the Salle Empire into a celebration that stretched into the night. The music drew guests from their tables, turning the evening’s formal elegance into an energetic finale befitting the milestone anniversary.
As guests departed into Monaco’s December night, the record‑breaking funds raised stood as a testament to the Principality’s enduring blend of glamour and generosity, a legacy that the Bal de Noël has proudly upheld for 20 years.
See more photos in the gallery below. Photos credit: Alain Duprat, Bal de Noël
