What’s on in Monaco this October

Although summer has drawn to a close in Monaco, the pace of events across the Principality shows no sign of easing. From high-level yacht racing to masterful displays of chocolate craftsmanship, October promises a vibrant and varied cultural agenda.

The month sets sail with the Smeralda 888 International Championship, which concludes its Mediterranean circuit in Monaco from October 10th to 12th. These elegant 8.88 metre boats, designed by German Frers, bring together international crews for one of the most prestigious one-design regattas in the region.

Later this month, the Grimaldi Trophy returns from October 24th to 26th, a collaboration between the Yacht Club de Monaco and the Yacht Club Sanremo. Competitors are set to race along the coastal waters linking the two clubs.

Meanwhile, mid-October shifts from wind power to electric power. The Riviera Electric Challenge runs from October 8th to 10th, beginning with technical checks at Cagnes-sur-Mer’s port before participants depart the next day. The event culminates in a prize ceremony at Place du Palais on the 10th from 4pm.

A few days later, the E-Rallye Monte-Carlo, running from October 15th to 18th, will mark 30 years of zero-emission racing. Covering over 230 kilometres across 14 stages through France and Italy, the route passes through the Mercantour National Park before returning to the Principality. The traditional start from Casino Square launches what organisers promise will be one of the toughest editions yet.

On the sustainability side of events, Ever Monaco is celebrating its 20th anniversary from October 15th to 16th at One Monte-Carlo. This year’s edition pivots from showcasing electric vehicles to spotlighting future focused ideas. Fifteen start-ups will compete for €20,000 in prize money, presenting innovating that range from carbon-recycling systems to foiling electric boats.

Sweet charity and fairground magic

Chocolate lovers can indulge at the Chokolashow Village from October 13th to 14th at the Méridien Beach Plaza. Tastings, workshops and an intriguing ‘Choco Therapy’ session with artist Monica Di Rocco will be taking place there during the event.

However, the highlight will come in the evening of the 14th with a charity auction of eight bespoke chocolate sculptures, each benefiting a different charity chosen by lottery. Guests who stay for the post-auction dinner will enjoy creations by executive chef Laurent Collin.

Shortly after, from October 17th to November 19th Monaco’s most traditional autumn celebration, the Foire Attractions, will return to Port Hercule. Around 80 vendors bring classic fairground fun including bumper cars, slides, and games of skill alongside delicious seasonal treats like toffee apples and Hungarian brioches.

See also: Autumn fair set to return to Monaco’s Port Hercule

New attractions Party the Best and Gyroscope join the lineup this year, promising thrills for adrenaline seekers. The fair will be open daily from 11pm, extending to midnight on weekends and until 1am on November 18th, the eve of National Day.

Lastly, from October 19th to 21st, the Sportel Awards will return under the honorary presidency of Prince Albert II. Celebrating the best sports footage of the past year, the event welcomes the public with free conferences, athlete meet-and-greets, and autograph sessions.

Cultural offerings

Photography is also set to take the spotlight as Isabelle Lindbergh presents her exhibition at Espace 22 from October 27th to November 9th. Using a 16-metre silver veil to visualise wind patterns Lindbergh captures dramatic scenes from Iceland to the Caribbean. Her unique perspective as both pilot and photographer lends a poetic touch to her images. The opening reception takes place on 27 October at 5pm.

For something quieter, the Musée des Timbres et des Monnaies hosts Architecture in Philately: A Miniature History from October 4th to 31st December. The exhibition features 120 stamps charting Monaco’s architectural evolution.

See also: 

Isabelle Lindbergh brings windswept images to Monaco

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Main photo by Matheus Bertelli, Pexels.Â