Starry Nights and Diamond Delights: Monaco’s Red Cross Gala and Princess Grace’s Legacy Shine On Forever

On the evening of July 19, the Principality of Monaco once again became the epicenter of philanthropy and elegance with the 75th annual Monaco Red Cross Gala. This iconic event, presided over by Prince Albert II and Princess Charlène, showcased the Principality’s commitment to humanitarian efforts supported by the grandeur of Monaco’s high society.

In a departure from tradition, the gala replaced the customary red carpet with a stunning blue and star-studded carpet, creating an ethereal entrance reminiscent of a starlit sky. This symbolic change from the traditional red carpet paid homage to the gala’s illustrious history and the many celebrities who have graced this prestigious event over the past 75 years.

The Salle des Étoiles, renowned for its retractable glass windows offering panoramic views of Monte Carlo Bay, provided a spectacular backdrop for the evening. The venue, steeped in tradition, has long been the lifeblood of the Monaco Red Cross, channeling funds to support local needs and international humanitarian projects.

Guests at the event, including British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe, paid a premium of 1,500 euros per ticket. This contribution allowed them to dine in close proximity to the princely couple, underscoring the gala’s allure and exclusivity. In attendance was also none other than Shirley Bassey, who famously purred “Diamonds Are Forever”, one of her three Bond songs. The Monaco Red Cross, established by Prince Louis II in 1948, has been steered by a lineage of distinguished leaders, from Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace to the current stewardship of Prince Albert II, who has helmed the organization for the past forty-two years. In recent years, Princess Charlène and their niece, Camille Gottlieb, have joined the leadership, reinforcing the Grimaldi family’s dedication to the cause.

The night was a nostalgic journey through the gala’s rich history, with archival footage featuring past performances by icons like Frank Sinatra, Whitney Houston, and Alicia Keys. This year, the musical highlight was a vibrant performance by Jay Kay, the lead singer of Jamiroquai. His set, including the timeless hit “Cosmic Girl,” captivated the audience and kept the energy high well past midnight.

The evening’s culinary experience, crafted by chef Thierry Saez Manzanares, featured a four-course meal that included a salad, fish filet, lamb chops, and a sumptuous dessert. Adding to the night’s excitement was a high-stakes raffle, hosted by Tatiana Silva and former roller champion Taïg Khris. Prizes included a Van Cleef & Arpels diamond necklace, an Audemars Piguet watch, and an exclusive Kelly Bag, each item reflecting the gala’s luxurious nature.

A poignant video montage illuminated the Monaco Red Cross’s enduring commitment to humanitarian efforts since its founding. This was complemented by a breathtaking fireworks display that lit up the sky, made all the more spectacular by the Salle des Étoiles’ retractable ceiling, offering guests an unobstructed view.

Prince Albert & Princess Charlene’s Inaugural Dance

One of the evening’s highlights was the first dance led by Prince Albert II and Princess Charlène, a moment that symbolized both tradition and the gala’s continuous evolution. Princess Charlène, known for her impeccable fashion sense, dazzled in a bespoke white Louis Vuitton off-the-shoulder gown, accented with a gold belt and complemented by a minaudiere bijou clutch and Graff yellow diamond earrings.

As the night drew to a close, the 75th Monaco Red Cross Gala stood as a testament to the enduring power of charity, elegance and the unwavering commitment of the Principality to humanitarian causes. This grand event, with its blend of history, altruism and luxury continues to shine as a beacon of hope and generosity, setting the stage for many more humanitarian galas to come.