Ringing in the New Year in Monaco is the most glamorous way to welcome 2022. But even leading up to the fabulous December 31 celebrations, there is plenty of festivities, entertainment, and exquisite decorations to enjoy.
Visitors will find themselves amidst a Christmas village that is open through early January, featuring a Ferris Wheel, chalets, and an ice-skating rink, and stores along the shopping promenade are beautifully decked out as well.
Throughout the holiday season, the magical beauty of Monaco is lit up at every turn. On 30 and 31 December, the Casino de Monte-Carlo offers an amazing light show with 3D projection mapping on the building’s façade.
On New Year’s Eve, hotels and restaurants, of course, go all-out to ring in the New Year in Monaco. Michelin-starred dining at its finest awaits, with five-course or seven-course chefs’ dinners accompanied by the finest Champagnes. Bistro fare is also available, and many venues have musical entertainment as well.
Speaking of entertainment, the Jacksons (originally the Jackson Five) from the United States are the concert headliners at the Salle des Étoiles to get the Monaco New Year’s Eve party started. No ticket? No problem. Join the crowd at Monte-Carlo’s Casino Square for music and dancing while the clock ticks toward midnight and brilliant fireworks burst into the sky. Another fantastic fireworks display marks the midnight hour at Port Hercule, flanked by some of the finest Monaco luxury apartments.
Continue the party on New Year’s Day with a special brunch or a stroll through the Christmas village, which remains open through 9 January.
Long after all the glitz and glamour building up to the New Year, Monaco continues to draw visitors with a calendar of exciting events.
Monaco New Year: Looking ahead into 2022
Once the Monaco New Year is properly welcomed and the calendar pages flip forward into 2022, attention turns to a host of fun, entertaining events
Nothing spells excitement like the Monte-Carlo Car Rally, scheduled for 17-23 January. This high-octane event, organized by the Automobile Club of Monaco, starts and finishes in the principality. It’s followed by the Rallye Monte-Carlo Classique from 31 January to 2 February. The historic race features exceptional cars that have entered at least one Rallye Automobile Monte-Carlo between 1911, when it was created, and 1983.
Save these Monaco New Year dates for the world’s biggest circus festival in Fontvieille — from 20 to 30 January — with thrilling acts by 200 artists from 20 countries. The Monte-Carlo International Circus Festival promises the best performers in the business with shows the entire family will enjoy.
February brings the fabled Carnival in nearby Nice, from the 11th to the 27th. Head on over to France for the largest winter event on the Riviera. This year’s “King of Animals” theme takes over the streets of Nice, where boisterous crowds contribute to the festive atmosphere. Don’t miss the popular main parade with its mix of giant floats, bands, and burlesque. Stay for the legendary Battle of the Flowers and the amazing Lights Parade, too!
For something more sedate, the Monte-Carlo Spring Arts Festival returns from 10 March to 3 April, featuring weekends of classical music with some of the world’s most renowned orchestras. More than 500 international artists perform in dozens of concerts.
Enjoy the holidays in Monaco, and stay for the many Monaco New Year events to follow in 2022!
