Red and white flags are flying everywhere. If the flags could smile and laugh with happiness they would. Every year on 19th November, the Principality of Monaco celebrates its National Day (also called the “Prince’s Day” or Fête du Prince) in honour of the reigning sovereign and the country’s warm relationship with him. It is an expression of the country’s identity.
Religious ceremony and Te Deum
The day began with the traditional mass of thanksgiving at the Cathédrale Notre‑Dame‑Immaculée de Monaco in Monaco-Ville, attended by the sovereign couple and extended members of the princely family. The mass included the singing of the Te Deum, prayers for the Prince’s well-being, and reflections on national identity and values.
Cour d’Honneur / Military parade
Following the religious part, the proceedings moved to the Cour d’Honneur of the Palais Princier de Monaco, where the sovereign and his family took their places, and the official part of the celebrations took place. The ceremony saw the participation of the Carabiniers, sapeurs-pompiers, and other smartly dressed uniformed services, all impressive as always and included a formal taking-of-arms and review.
Fireworks Galore
This 2025 edition included a spectacular free fireworks display at Port Hercule on the evening of 18 November (peaceful eye-popping “shock and awe” on the eve of National Day), a pop-rock concert by the band Superbus on 18 Nov, and for 19 November daytime activities at the Marché de la Condamine, giant stockfish tasting and musical entertainment.
Monaco citizens really know how to celebrate and show their love for their Prince.
Royal family presence and balcony appearance
The princely family made a prominent appearance on the palace balcony, greeting everyone gathered on the Rock. The presence of the younger generation including heir Prince Jacques of Monaco and Princess Gabriella of Monaco always adds a fresh note to the tradition.
Princess Charlene once again embodied grace and modern royal presence. Poised beside her husband Prince Albert II and their young twins, she brought warmth and elegance to the day’s formalities. Her ensemble, crisp, tailored and subtly referencing the Principality’s colours, was complemented by the the glow of a proud mother watching her children take part in tradition.
But beyond the ceremonial polish lies a deeply committed woman: former Olympic swimmer, mother, humanitarian and animal-welfare advocate. From raising awareness about water safety to walking with rescue dogs for the cause of animal protection, she demonstrates that her role extends far beyond the balcony wave.
What was special in 2025
The city-hall and official organisers published a detailed and inclusive programme including concerts, family-friendly events and large public fireworks displays all emphasising making it a true popular celebration.
A particular highlight was the younger members of the Grimaldi family taking their place in formal roles (e.g., the heir in uniform) during the ceremony. The heir stood “droit comme i” alongside his father in the salute.
As always, the city was adorned in the red and white colours of Monaco with innumerable flags and decorations.
The decision by Prince Albert II to keep the date (19 November) in honour of his father, rather than moving it to his own patron saint’s day, shows reverence for continuity even as Monaco modernises.
Key Moment of National Identity
The Fête nationale is more than a holiday; it is a key moment of national identity for Monaco. And it is a celebration of our Prince and resonates with the words Prince Albert has shared with his people throughout this anniversary year including during the summer celebrations of his 20 years of reign, saying: “Tout ce que je fais chaque jour, je le fais pour vous” — “Everything I do each day, I do for you.”
Prince Albert acknowledged the global context, noting that “Nous avons des atouts indéniables dans un monde compliqué” “We have undeniable strengths in a complicated world,” and encouraged a balance between tradition and innovation: “La prudence n’empêche pas d’être imaginatif” — “Caution does not prevent one from being imaginative.”
Looking ahead
Given the positive feedback and broad public engagement witnessed in 2025, future editions of the Fête nationale may continue to enhance the public celebrations with more open-air music and interactive events while preserving the core ceremonial traditions. To enjoy it the best each year and for 2026 next, it’s smart to arrive early at the Palace area, securing views of the balcony, and take pleasure in exploring the market events, especially at the Condamine market.
Vive Prince Albert! Long Live Prince Albert and the Principality of Monaco!
