This winter and spring, Monaco will sparkle as a premier destination for culture, entertainment, and celebration. Across the Principality, world-class festivals, performances, sporting events, and charitable initiatives will bring together locals and visitors alike, offering moments of joy, inspiration, and cultural exchange. From cinematic and musical showcases to sporting challenges and culinary experiences, each event highlights Monaco’s unique ability to combine elegance with excitement.
The Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival
January 16–25, 2026
Happening from January 16 till 25, 2026, the big top event will be paired with the 13th New Generation competition. Over 150 artists from around the world are expected to perform for a chance to win awards that will boost their careers, under the big top at Espace Fontvieille. The annual International Circus Festival in Chapiteau Fontvieille will be stunning with its incredible attractions: acrobatic stunts, performances by world star circuses and fun tricks. This event, founded during the reign of Prince Rainier III, is traditionally crowned by the most prestigious circus award ceremony, the Golden Clown. According to tradition, the jury is chaired by Princess Stephanie who is also the Festival’s president. The Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival revealed plans for a partnership with Europa-Park, Europe’s biggest theme park, for 2026. This collaboration coincides with the launch of the park’s new section, inspired by the Principality of Monaco. Beginning in November 2025, Europa-Park will showcase a circus performance developed in cooperation with the Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival.
94th Monte-Carlo Rally
January 22–25, 2026
The 94th edition of the Rallye Automobile Monte-Carlo will take place from January 22 to 25, 2026, marking the start of the 2026 FIA World Rally Championship (WRC). The official start is scheduled for Thursday, January 22, from Place du Casino in Monaco. Prior to this, reconnaissance will take place from Monday, January 19, to Wednesday, January 21, followed by the Shakedown on Wednesday afternoon on the Route de la Garde in Gap, a 3.28 km stage introduced in 2017. The first leg, entirely at night, will include three timed special stages totaling 53.11 km. Competitors must comply with FIA technical and safety regulations, including tracking devices and adherence to noise and safety standards.
Sainte-Devote Traditional Celebrations
January 26–27, 2026
Celebrations for Sainte Devote, patron saint of Monaco, are one of the oldest traditions in the Principality of Monaco, a tradition that has permeated the national culture in fields as diverse as religion, folklore, popular belief, history, literature, arts, painting, music, numismatics and philately. The tradition, which has held a privileged place in the hearts of Monegasques for centuries, comes from the “Legend of Sainte-Devote” found in a medieval document. Since 1874, the tradition has continued every year: on the 26th of January a boat is burned in the presence of the Sovereign and the Princely Family, accompanied by Monegasque personalities. Once the boat is burned, there is a firework display at Port Hercule. On the 27th of January, the feast day, a solemn Mass is celebrated in the Cathedral by the Archbishop of the Diocese. The Princely Family, the Prince’s Government, the elected assemblies and the constituted bodies and members of the public attend this ceremony.
Rallye Monte-Carlo Historique
January 29 – February 7, 2026
The 28th Rallye Monte-Carlo Historique is set to redefine its legacy. With boosted safety, broader eligibility, and expanded logistical variety, it’s on course to set a new benchmark in historic rallying. The 6 starting hubs evoke the route diversity and grandeur that have always defined Monte-Carlo’s legendary journey, while expanding on the classic departure model. For the first time, eligible vehicles include models that competed at Monte-Carlo up to January 1986, a notable extension from the previous cut-off dates around 1983/1985. Expect iconic Irish Minis, Italian GTs, German coupes, and more to enrich the historic field. A major competitive evolution: all Regularity Stages will now take place on fully closed roads, pending administrative approval. This change enhances safety, encourages precision driving, and elevates the rally’s professional standards. Organisers are introducing two distinct average-speed classes, each with its own standings, offering greater choice and competitiveness across different rally eras. This edition starts on January 29. The Gala and the Prize Giving will take place on the evening of February, 7.
Nice Carnival
February 11 – March 1, 2026
The arrival of spring to Nice is unimaginable without its traditional carnival and flower parades. Its 2026 theme is “Vive la Reine!” with the most colourful scenery, huge inflatable sculptures, live music and tons of confetti. Are you ready to take part in its fragrant battle of flowers? Or enjoy a scenic night corso parade? Then head to Masséna Square in Nice and get ready for tons of fun!
Lemon Festival in Menton
February 14 – March 1, 2026
Menton and lemons are inseparable! Not only is this fragrant fruit cultivated in the city, but the annual festival featuring giant lemon and orange sculptures seems to bring them to life. The Lemon Festival in Menton traditionally hosts fruit parades, light shows, street animations and fairs. Its 2026 theme is “Wonders of Life”.
One to One Retail E-Commerce
March 10–12, 2026
The 15th edition of the One to One Retail E-Commerce event will bring together professionals in online commerce and conferences, features meetings between merchants and e-merchants, and also service providers in the field of online referencing and web design. One to One Monaco is a real business accelerator and has set a benchmark for experts in the sector. The E-Commerce One to One show in Monaco highlights the exciting possibilities of the future of the digital sector.
Michelin Guide ceremony
March 16, 2026
March 16, 2026 will mark a watershed moment for Monaco. For the first time in its long association with the Michelin Guide, the Grimaldi Forum will host the Guide’s annual France & Monaco ceremony. Monaco’s link with Michelin isn’t new — the Principality has been featured in the Guide since the very first edition in 1900, meaning over a century of culinary scrutiny. Currently, Monaco is compact but mighty with eight Michelin-starred establishments packed into its 2 square kilometres, including one triple-starred standout.
The Rose Ball
March 2026
Photo: Pierre Villard / SBM
The 70th edition of the Rose Ball for the benefit of the Princess Grace Foundation will be held as per tradition in March, 2026. One thousand guests gather every year for the breathtaking Rose Ball. Set at the spectacular Salle des Étoiles, the Bal de la Rose raises funds for the Princess Grace Foundation and provides its largest financial boost of the year. First initiated in 1954, the Rose Ball has long earned a reputation of being one of the most important charity events in Monaco. This evening has always symbolized the arrival of spring, encouraging good deeds. All the funds raised over the gala evening are donated to Princess Grace Foundation’s charity projects. It is a must for celebrities, businessmen and statesmen from around the world. The Rose Ball, always attended by the Princely family, will take place in Salle des Étoiles of Monte-Carlo Sporting Club.
Aesthetic & Anti-Aging Medicine World Congress
March 26–28, 2026
The world’s leading congress in the field of aesthetic and anti-aging medicine will be held on March 26 to 28. Under the scientific supervision of the Aesthetic Multispecialty Society (AMS), the AMWC offers each year a highly interactive, stimulating and multidisciplinary program, designed to stimulate the exchange of ideas, and facilitate networking opportunities. Each year, this event attracts more than 12,000 participants to Monaco from over 130 countries.
