The festive season is officially underway in the Principality, as the Princely Family inaugurated the much-loved Christmas Village at Port Hercule this weekend…
Following the illumination of Square Gastaud and Casino Square, this opening marks the true start of Monaco’s end-of-year celebrations. This year, the Town Hall invites visitors into an enchanting setting inspired by the gentle, nostalgic world of teddy bears.
The scents of melted cheese and mulled wine once again fill the waterfront, where plush bears of every size and colour have taken over to bring this year’s theme, Le Pays des Nours, to life. With 24 merchant chalets, 24 gourmet booths, and a range of attractions, the village promises a festive experience for all ages.
Early December marks the beginning of gift-hunting and seasonal gatherings, and the Christmas Village remains one of Monaco’s most cherished meeting spots. For the Town Hall teams, the project represents nearly a full year of work, balancing tradition with creativity. Some beloved attractions, such as the carousel, are intentionally preserved, while décor and culinary offerings evolve each year, ensuring a sense of renewal without losing the spirit regular visitors hold dear.
This edition also celebrates the long-awaited return of the ice rink after a four-year hiatus, a joyful highlight for families and young skaters alike. In 2023, the village welcomed more than 639,000 visitors, a figure expected to be matched once again.
Throughout the season, parades, concerts, family shows, and creative workshops will animate the village. The full programme is available on the Town Hall’s website.
Images: Prince’s Palace IG
