Here’s the schedule for the public events planned for Monaco’s big National Day celebrations later this month, including music, activities for the kids and, of course, the grand lightshow in Port Hercule.
Monaco’s National Day, celebrated each year on 19th November and also known as the Sovereign Prince’s Day, is a chance for the country to roll out the red carpet as well as to let loose and have fun.
The fanfare and grandeur of the Principality is on full display, with the Prince and his family, the Knights of Malta, ambassadors, local dignitaries and state officials all in their full regalia for official events, such as the traditional mass at the Cathedral.
Many of these special occasions are invite-only or strictly reserved for Monegasque citizens, but these more solemn moments are interspersed with public events where locals and residents can mix, mingle and celebrate Monaco.
PROGRAMME
This year, the party will begin with a party for children on 15th November, from 2pm to 6.30pm. Called National Children’s Day, kids aged four to 12 can enjoy an entire afternoon dedicated to them, with everything from workshops, a bouncy castles, games, a football zone and even a “large Formula 1 remote-controlled car circuit” lined up. This event is exclusively reserved for Monegasque residents and their families.
On 18th November at 8.15pm, the annual lightshow will take place over Port Hercule. After this much-loved spectacle, a musical performance by the trio known as Blønd and Blönd and Blónd will take to the stage. This event is open to the public.
Then, on the morning of 19th November, the Princely family will make their traditional appearance on the balcony of the Palais Princier. Be sure to get there early to get a space on the front row if you want a clear view of Prince Albert, Princess Charlene and their twins.
After a series of special private events shared amongst the Grimaldi family and Principality officials, Monegasque residents and their families are invited to attend a performance by Nach at 6pm at the Espace Léo Ferré. Her one-night only show will see the talented 36-year-old play piano and sing her brand of “very original” French-language pop and rock.
This is also the day that Prince Albert II will present gifts to Monegasque seniors over 60. To be eligible for the free gift, citizens must register between 8.30am and 5.30pm on 2nd and 3rd November on the Palace’s website. The treats will be couriered directly to the homes of beneficiaries to be enjoyed at their leisure.
INVITES
Registration and ticket collection for the events reserved for Monegasques and their families will take place at the Espace Léo Ferré on 8th and 9th November. For more information, click here.
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Photo credit: Palais Princier de Monaco