Millions of tourists across the globe flock to Monaco, one of the smallest and most exotic cities of Europe, every year. The Principality of Monaco is the smallest constitutional monarchy along with an indigenous population called Monegasque. Located between the majestic Alps and the azure of the Mediterranean sea, the inhabitants celebrate their own traditions and have a special attitude towards festivals and family values.

If Monaco has charmed you, there are interesting events, festivals and traditions of Monaco that you will be enthralled to be a part of. 

5 Famous Traditions of Monaco

Feast of Saint Devote

Sainte Devote is the Saint Patron of Monaco and of the Prince’s family, who are the sovereign family of Monaco. This feast takes place every year on January 27th and is dedicated to the patron saint of Monaco, who was imprisoned and killed in 4th century Corsica. This tradition has continued since 1874, and a boat is burned every year in the presence of the Sovereign family, along with a firework display at Port Hercule. A procession also takes place, and it stops at Palace du Palais, where a celebrant blesses the Princely family and the relics. The procession follows along to the ramparts, where another celebrant blesses the population and the country. Finally, the last celebrant blesses the sea and the fishermen. 

Le Bal de la Rose

Bal de la Rose is celebrated in March every year, and it was established by Princess Grace of Monaco in 1954. This event is organized by the Monte Carlo SBM group in Salle des Etoiles of Sporting Monte Carlo. It is a symbol of glamour that brings together the high-society and illuminates the Principality with splendor and light. The spectacle takes on a different theme every year, and it is represented by artists. In 2013, the SBM group celebrated their 150th anniversary, and the Salle des Etoiles was transformed into a Belle et Pop ballroom. The evening consists of a charitable event for international outreach, and the profits go to the Princess Grace Foundation. 

Monaco Yacht Show

The Monaco Yacht Show is an annual trade and yacht show organized by Informa, which is a British events and publishing company. The event is held in Port Hercules, and it is the biggest in-water display of Yachts in Europe. The event started in 1991, and over the four-day event, 150 private events like conferences and receptions are held. The car deck event includes automobiles from Aston Martin, Lamborghini, and Mercedes Benz. 

National Holiday of Monaco

The National Holiday of Monaco is held on November 19th, and the National Monégasque day was established by Prince Charles III in 1857. The day coincides with the Sovereign Prince Patron Saint’s day, which makes it a movable feast. The National Holiday has been celebrated since 2005 after Prince Albert ascended on the throne and decided to maintain Saint Rainier’s Feast Day as National Holiday in memory of his father. 

International Circus Festival of Monte Carlo

Created in 1974 by Prince Rainier III of Monaco to promote circus performers, the annual circus festival is held in the month of January every year. It was initially celebrated in Monte Carlo, but currently, the permanent venue is in the Fontvieille district in Monaco. The circus acts are performed for paying audiences and a jury who gives awards for best performances, including the Golden Crown, silver crown, and bronze crown. The Palmarés or the awards are given in the closing gala performance that is attended by the Prince of Monaco. HSH Princess Stephanie of Monaco presides over the event and pays attention to the proper handling of the animals. 

Conclusion

If you are planning a trip to Monaco, do not be in a hassle to take part in all the festivities and traditions of Monaco. Take your time to enjoy the beautiful city and the feasts it offers. Monaco is known for its abundant wealth and beautiful culture that you won’t want to miss.