Over the coming days and weeks, the Principality of Monaco will be transformed into a haven of Christmas festivity. Here are some of the highlights of the holiday season to come.
At 6.30pm on 30th November, Monaco’s Christmastime preparations will kick into high gear with the traditional illumination of an 18-metre tree along with thousands of glittering lights in the Place du Casino.
This year’s theme, ‘A Magical Christmas Time’, will see the iconic square come alive with the magic of the season as five giant snow globes are wheeled out to encircle the gloriously decorated tree. Each globe will portray an iconic Christmas moment from a family decorating a tree to the sharing of festive meals and the unwrapping of gifts.
Beginning 6th December and running every Friday and Saturday until 21st December, when it becomes a daily event, a stunning projection show featuring North Pole elves will delight visitors to the square each evening. The show will be beamed up onto the Casino de Monte-Carlo’s façade.
Closer to Christmas, a choir is set to perform in the Place du Casino between 1pm and 4.30pm on 21st, 22nd, 24th and 25th December. On top of this, Santa Claus himself will be making regular appearances in the Place du Casino on 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 24th and 25th December.
In the nearby Jardins des Boulingrins, the festive carousel will enchant younger visitors throughout the festive period, and along with a stand selling churros, crepes and sweets, there is also a Monte-Carlo Societe des Bains de Mer boutique called Christmas by our Chefs that is selling exclusive seasonal treats, such as Alain Ducasse’s panettone and Dominique Lory’s candied chestnuts.
Adding to the seasonal charm are the chalets on Avenue Monte-Carlo, where visitors can discover festive delicacies, floral arrangements and unique gifts. Warm treats like crepes and hot chocolate provide the perfect break for shoppers. The market opened on 15th November and will continue through to 5th January.
See more: Village des Sports to bring Christmastime adventure to Port Hercule
The Square Beaumarchais, near the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, has been reimagined as a winter wonderland featuring the Café Repossi this winter. This pop-up blends fine jewellery with a seasonal experience, offering champagne and festive delicacies like oysters and caviar.
Meanwhile, the hotel will be welcoming children to a Christmas tea party in the Salle Belle Epoque every day between 20th and 23rd December. Visitors can expect to meet Father Christmas and participate in a range of workshops and fun activities.
The festive atmosphere extends to the Hôtel de Paris, which will host a Festive Afternoon Tea event in its lobby between 14th December and 5th January. It will be a refined take on the English tradition with a hearty festive twist of pastries and a signature Alain Ducasse hot chocolate against the backdrop of a Christmas tree designed by Chopard.
Finally, the much-anticipated Christmas Village in Port Hercule will open on 6th December, adding a traditional touch to the celebrations with local crafts, food and entertainment.
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Photos source: Monte-Carlo SBM