Princess Charlene of Monaco, accompanied by her children Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, had the honour of formally inaugurating the Christmas Village in Port Hercule, an occasion that officially kicked off the festive season in the Principality.
Though Prince Albert II was unable to join his family for the evening of fun and festivities on Friday 6th December—the Prince was likely making his way to Paris for the grand unveiling of Notre-Dame the following day—the presence of Princess Charlene and the twins more than made up for his absence.
See more: Prince Albert II among world leaders invited to grand reopening of Notre-Dame
There were smiles all-round as the trio, joined by Mayor Georges Marsan and other members of the Mairie de Monaco, made their way through the Christmas Village.
They were accompanied inside the fairground by a troupe of traditionally dressed Palladienne dancers, and Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, who will turn 10 on 10th December, were seen beaming as they climbed aboard one of the many rides on Quai Albert Ier.
This year, Monaco’s Christmas Village is embracing a warm and enchanting gingerbread theme. Alongside the many fairground rides and attractions, visitors can enjoy festive food and beverages from nearly two dozen food stands and peruse chalets selling a wide variety of holiday gifts.
Adding to the festive spirit, concerts will be held every Friday evening, and there are many creative workshops for children scheduled during the weekends and school holidays of December.
The Christmas Village will remain open to the public until 5th January 2025.
To see more photographs from the inauguration, click on the images below:
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Photos credit: Eric Mathon / Palais Princier de Monaco / Ed Wright Images / Stéphane Danna / Monaco Communications Department