Monaco Red Cross Gala: A Night of Elegance and Philanthropy with Royals

In Monte-Carlo on July 13, 2025, His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco and Her Serene Highness Princess Charlene captivated guests at the annual Croix-Rouge Monégasque Gala, a premier charity event that showcases both glamour and goodwill. The event, which extended past 1 AM, served as a highlight of the principality's summer social calendar, attracting approximately 800 distinguished attendees, all dressed in black-tie attire, to the opulent Salle des Étoiles.

The gala, first established in 1948 by Prince Louis II, has evolved into a flagship fundraising initiative for Monaco's chapter of the Red Cross, supporting local welfare programs and international relief efforts. This year, the event marked its 76th edition, with notable royal family members in attendance, including Camille Gottlieb, daughter of Princess Stéphanie and granddaughter of the late Grace Kelly. Gottlieb expressed the significance of the gala, stating, "The Monaco Red Cross Gala is an opportunity for us to come together around a cause that is dear to us—a cause that touches us deeply."

During the evening, Princess Charlene, who serves as Vice-President of the Red Cross, donned an ethereal pleated silk-georgette gown by Elie Saab and honored Prince Albert for his 40 years of dedication to the organization, as well as the 20th anniversary of his accession to the throne. "Today marks exactly the 20th anniversary of your accession," she declared, acknowledging his leadership and commitment to Monaco.

The gala featured a sumptuous four-course meal crafted by chef Thierry Saez Manzanares, including caviar tartlets, seafood platters, wagyu steak, and a white chocolate-raspberry crisp for dessert. The event also included a charity raffle, hosted by French ballet dancer Aurélie Dupont and journalist Harry Roselmack, with lavish prizes such as a two-night stay in a sea-view suite at the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo and exquisite diamond jewelry.

As the night progressed, Prince Albert and Princess Charlene opened the dance floor with Coldplay's "Everglow," eventually joined by family and guests. The evening culminated in a breathtaking fireworks display over the Riviera, followed by a live performance from British rocker Billy Idol, who entertained the crowd with over ten of his classic hits. The event concluded well past 1 AM, with all three royals still enjoying the festivities.

The Monaco Red Cross Gala not only highlights the principality's commitment to charitable efforts but also reinforces the royal family's active role within the community. For Camille Gottlieb, her involvement on the board is a personal passion, emphasizing the significance of charity in her life. As she remarked, "Charity has always been very important to me; it plays a major role in my daily life." The 2025 Monaco Red Cross Gala ultimately served as a stunning reminder of the power of philanthropy and the enduring spirit of community in Monaco.