Resplendent Royal Family and Joyful Parades: Monaco’s 2024 National Day Celebrated in Style

The 2024 Fête de la Prince, celebrated on November 19, was a radiant display of Monaco’s cherished traditions, familial unity, and cultural pride. Under the brilliant Mediterranean sun, the Principality came alive with vibrant festivities, military displays, and heartfelt moments that united the Princely Family and Monegasque citizens.

The day began with the Te Deum service at the Cathedral of Monaco, a solemn thanksgiving tradition presided over by Archbishop Dominique-Marie David. Prince Albert II, Princess Charlène, and a near-complete assembly of the Grimaldi family attended this sacred ceremony. The cathedral, adorned in Monaco’s national colours of red and white, was filled with government officials, dignitaries, and residents seeking blessings for the nation.

Sitting in the choir of the religious building, Andrea Casiraghi, his wife Tatiana, Charlotte Casiraghi, Pierre Casiraghi, his wife Beatrice, Alexandra of Hanover, Louis and Pauline Ducruet as well as Camille Gottlieb all preceding the sovereign couple. Princess Caroline and Stéphanie were also elegant in their attendance.

This lovely celebration was enhanced by the Petits Chanteurs de Monaco and the Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Pierre Debat.

Following the service, the celebrations moved to Palace Square, where the military parade became a key highlight. The parade featured Monaco’s Carabinieri Corps, complemented for the first time since 1896 by the French Republican Guard cavalry, whose precision and elegance enthralled the crowd. Their performance, accompanied by the army choir singing patriotic songs such as Le Chant des Partisans, underscored Monaco’s enduring ties with France.

A section of the 1st Infantry Regiment, led by Lieutenant Hugo Leray, distinguished itself alongside the cavalrymen commanded by Colonel Marie-Audrey Leheup, the first woman in-command. The motorcycle platoon, under the direction of Squadron Leader Karim Alioui, and the 17 singers of the French Army Choir had added a sublime musical touch. This moment was also an opportunity to pay tribute to the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of Monaco, with works such as Le Jour le plus long and Chant des Marais.

This year’s National Day celebrated the unity of the Grimaldi family, led by Prince Albert II and Princess Charlène. Their presence on the palace balcony, alongside their children, Crown Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, was one of the most anticipated moments. Dressed in a ceremonial Carabinieri uniform, young Prince Jacques showcased his growing role as Monaco’s future leader, receiving a proud military salute from his father.

Princess Charlène, dazzling, appeared in a magnificent lilac-coloured costume reaffirming her central role in the celebrations. She was also joined among others by Princess Caroline of Hanover, Princess Alexandra of Hanover, Princess Stéphanie, and Stéphanie’s children—Louis and Pauline Ducruet, and Camille Gottlieb. Each member of the Grimaldi family brought their unique presence, creating a picture of strength and continuity.

Louis Ducruet’s pregnant wife, Marie, was celebrated in absentia, emphasizing familial ties as a cornerstone of the day.

And per tradition echoing over the balconies, the Prince and the Princely Family were treated to “Hooray!” as the crowd cheered.

Prince Albert II presided over a ceremony in the palace courtyard, awarding decorations to Monaco’s security forces in recognition of their exceptional service. This tradition not only celebrated their dedication but also reinforced Monaco’s commitment to public safety and national excellence.

At the Cour d’Honneur over 20 members of the Force Publique, including the Prince’s Carabiniers and the Fire Brigade, were honoured. Among them and included in press reports were Brigadier Michaël Denhez who was promoted to the rank of Sergeant, while Captain Hervé Matu and Warrant Officer Stéphan Combaluzier received the Order of Saint-Charles. The Labour Medals were also awarded to several Palace employees, including Emmanuel Alleaume and Simone Gomes Figueiredo, in recognition of their long-standing commitment.

Last year evening festivities were held at the Grimaldi Forum, where the gala performance of “Caruso à Monaco” paid tribute to the legendary tenor Enrico Caruso. It was headlined in 2023 by world-renowned tenor Jonas Kaufmann and actor Alfonso Antoniozzi, the opera celebrating Monaco’s artistic legacy, solidifying its status as a global cultural hub.

Across Monaco, this year in 2024 streets buzzed with celebrations, and the annual funfair.

Prince Albert II used the occasion to reiterate Monaco’s commitment to sustainability, integrating environmental awareness into the day’s festivities. Exhibits highlighted the Principality’s ecological advancements, aligning its heritage with its aspirations for a sustainable future.

The 2024 Fête de la Prince was more than a celebration—it was a heartfelt reflection of Monaco’s values of tradition, unity, and progress. With the Princely Family at its core and a community united in pride, the day left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who attended. As Monaco looks toward its future, this year’s National Day was a testament to its enduring legacy and aspirations.

HOORAY!