Published on October 22, 2021Updated on December 11, 2024
The Christmas season is upon us and Monaco has transformed into a winter wonderland. Be transported to a fairytale land where sparkling Christmas traditions meet Monte-Carlo’s inimitable style. From December to January, wander through the Christmas markets in Monaco, admire the grand decorations that adorn shop fronts and boulevards, and marvel at the glittering illuminations. From iconic squares to sumptuous hotels, discover all places in Monaco where you can enjoy a magical Christmas time in true festive fashion.
Contents
- Enchanting illuminations programme at the Casino de Monte-Carlo
- Discover All the Christmas Activities in Monte-Carlo
- Meet Santa Claus | Casino Square and Carré d'Or
- Christmas Carousel | Jardin des Boulingrins
- Christmas Choir | Casino Square and Carré d'O
- Explore the Christmas Market in Monte-Carlo
- Chic or Traditional: The Shops and Christmas Markets in Monte-Carlo
Enchanting illuminations at the Casino de Monte-Carlo
Immerse yourself in the magic of the festive season with a unique illuminations show projected onto the majestic façade of the Casino de Monte-Carlo. Here's everything you need to know about this enchanting event:
Discover the programme:
- Weekend 1: From 06/12/2024 to 07/12/2024, from 4pm to 10pm.
- Weekend 2: From 13/12/2024 to 14/12/2024, from 16:00 to 22:00.
- Weekend 3: From 20/12/2024 to 21/12/2024, from 16:00 to 22:00.
- Weekend 4: From 27/12/2024 to 28/12/2024, from 16:00 to 22:00.
- Exceptional New Year's Eve evening: From 31/12/2024 at 16:00 until 01/01/2025 at 02:00.
Discover all the Christmas activities in Monte-Carlo
Christmas snow globes | Place du Casino / Casino Square
From the end of November, wonder at the Place du Casino and let yourself be tempted by the giant snow globes. The different scenes illustrated by these spheres make up a complete story, renewed every year. A visual stroll that evokes the spirit of Christmas, a clever blend of generosity and kindness. Place du Casino is the perfect place to enjoy unforgettable moments with friends and family!
Meet Santa Claus | Casino Square and Carré d'Or
Before taking off on his annual tour, Santa Claus has planned an itinerary around Place du Casino, in our hotels and in front of the Christmas chalets. Put on your best smile for a sparkling photo!
Christmas Carousel | Jardin des Boulingrins
Be dazzled by the beauty of the enchanting Christmas Carousel and its Chalet in the Jardin des Boulingrins, opposite the Casino de Monte-Carlo. The ideal place for a magical family moment . Take a break for a sweet snack at the Chalet which offers crêpes, churros and hot drinks! These little sweet treats and typical winter food that we like to enjoy between Christmas and New Year's Eve wait for you give it a try. Don't wait any longer to come and celebrate your festive season in the Principality!
Christmas Choir | Casino Square and Carré d'Or
Joy to the world, it's Christmas! The magic of Christmas continues with choirs delighting your ears during musical shows and outdoor concerts organised (and improvised) throughout the Principality. Experience the magic of Christmas choirs on 21, 22, 24 and 25 December from 1pm to 4.30pm.
Explore the Christmas Market in Monte-Carlo
Chic or Traditional: The Shops and Monaco Christmas Market
An upmarket shopping experience awaits you on the Christmas Promenade Monte-Carlo Shopping. This is your chance to find a stylish festive outfit in one of the designer boutiques, sumptuous gifts or superb festive decorations.
On the Avenue de Monte-Carlo, you'll be spoilt for choice in our Christmas chalets. From Christmas comfort food to unique gift ideas, there's no shortage of festive cheer.
Monaco's Christmas village is also located on the Port Hercule. Traditionally held from early December to early January, it delights young and old alike. An atmosphere worthy of Santa's workshops, mixed with the Monegasque dolce vita, awaits you around the famous quays. Strolling past the chalets, taking a ride on the Ferris wheel or taking part in the activities organised for children are all part of the Monaco Christmas experience.
Did you know that in Monaco there is a sport never seen elsewhere: ice skating at the foot of palm trees? Give it a try at Christmas Market’s rink, a unique place in the world where you can ice skate with a sea view. Put on your skates and repeat your triple axels, the gala will only last until the Christmas Market closes!
The Most Beautiful Christmas Decorations Are in Monte-Carlo
At Christmas, Monaco’s illuminations bring a special glow to the Riviera. Marvel at the Place du Casino and let yourself be charmed by the unique light that, from Nice to Cannes, via Monaco, illuminates the Riviera in the heart of winter, on day, evening and night.
Even if Monaco looks like a winter wonderland each year, with beautiful decorations all over the streets, the palaces and the monuments, the Principality turns Christmas Holiday into a sustainable demonstration, by allowing the City Hall’s Events Services to tackle the issue of carbon footprint of illuminations. With recycacle LED, biodegradable materials, innovating designs, and ligthning management made possible by the smart grid in use for the Principality’s electrical network, the Christmas Decorations and Illuminations follow the open and responsable approach advocated by Prince Albert II, who encourages his state to move towards carbon neutrality.
Blending sophistication with eco-conscious design, all around properties, monuments and landscapes, the illuminations of Monaco represent the high value of the local tourism industry. The Stade Nautique, the Jardin des Boulings, the Hôtel de Paris and the Quai des États-Unis shine with a renewed winter spirit. And if you want to discover the real highlight of the event, walk to Casino Square and look up. The 18-meter tree watches over the visitors.
It's the perfect time to enjoy unforgettable moments with friends or family! The Principality's top hotels and restaurants also put on their Sunday best during the holidays. Majestic Christmas trees adorn the lobbies of Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort as well as the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo decorated with an impressive Repossi fir tree to mark the 10th anniversary of the Maison's Serti sur Vide collection. As for the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, don’t miss its exceptional decorations, which include a tree designed by Chopard. A marvelous sight for adults and children alike !
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