Sunday, July 6, 2025

Summer’s Hottest Fireworks on the Riviera and in Monaco

 

If fireworks are part of your summer tradition, there’s no better place to experience a dazzling display than the French Riviera and Monaco. From national celebrations to world-class pyrotechnic festivals, the summer nights along the Côte d’Azur are set to light up in the most spectacular ways.

Monaco Magic Over the Port

Monaco delivers two major firework nights this summer, both free and family-friendly, taking place over the scenic Port Hercule:

Saturday, 26 July 2025 Festivities kick off at 18:00 with inflatable games and attractions for kids, followed by a grand fireworks display at 22:30. The evening continues with live DJs and pop-rock music into the night.

Saturday, 9 August 2025 The same format returns with upgraded family entertainment, themed performances, and another sky-brightening fireworks show at 22:30.

Bastille Day Celebrations – 14 July

The French National Day is a centerpiece of the summer, and several Riviera towns pull out all the stops:

  • Nice A grand firework show illuminates the Promenade des Anglais between 22:00–23:00, bringing locals and tourists together along the seafront.

  • Cagnes‑sur‑Mer (Hippodrome) The fireworks are woven into the “Nuits d’Été” series, adding extra sparkle to horse racing nights at the local racetrack.

  • Antibes – Juan‑les‑Pins Pyro-musical displays take place on 13 July (22:15) and 14 July (22:30), lighting up the bay with synchronized music and color.

Summer Fireworks Festivals & Coastal Highlights

The Riviera’s summer fireworks calendar is rich with international contests, beach parties, and local fêtes:

  • Cannes Festival d’Art Pyrotechnique One of Europe’s premier fireworks competitions, with displays from international teams. Shows launch from barges at 22:00 on 4, 14, 22 July and 5, 15, 24 August.

  • Antibes Festival Pyromélodique Running from 13 July to 24 August, this series offers spectacular Thursday evening displays over Juan-les-Pins, all free and open-air.

  • Mandelieu‑La Napoule Hosts three major shows: – 15 July (Champ-de-Château) – 9 August (Plage Robinson) – 23 August (Plage du Château) All begin at 22:00 with scenic seaside settings.

  • Cagnes‑sur‑Mer (Hippodrome) Fireworks accompany themed race nights between 7 July and 23 August, with scheduled displays on 7, 9, 12, 16, 19, 21, 23, 30 July and 9, 23 August.

  • Saint‑Jean‑Cap‑Ferrat – Grande Nuit Vénitienne On 2 August, this elegant Venetian-themed night includes flag-throwers, masked artists, glowing gondolas, and fireworks around 22:30.

  • Golfe Juan – Vallauris Two seaside shows are planned on 15 July and 16 August, both at 22:15, from Plage Picasso.

  • Menton – Nuits du Soleil On 15 August, DJ sets light up the Baie des Sablettes from 21:00, with a grand fireworks finale at 22:30.

  • Théoule‑sur‑Mer Celebrates 15 August with a traditional “bal des pompiers” starting at 19:00 and fireworks at 22:00.

  • Villeneuve‑Loubet – Marina en Fête! Wrap up summer on 23 August with music, markets, and a vibrant firework show over the marina.

  • Fréjus / Saint‑Raphaël (Estérel Côte d’Azur) Weekly coastal fireworks every Sunday: 14, 21, 28 July and 4, 11, 18, 25 August, all at 22:30, offering perfect sunset-to-starlight evenings.

    Bonus: Surprise Displays from the Sea

    Don’t be surprised if you catch unexpected bursts of color over the water. Yacht owners often launch private fireworks for weddings, birthdays—or simply for the fun of it. The Riviera skies are never still for long in summer.

    Whether you're watching from a beach towel, a balcony, or the deck of a boat, the Riviera’s summer fireworks promise unforgettable nights full of light, music, and magic.

Saturday, July 5, 2025

Billy Idol to Rock the 2025 Monaco Red Cross Gala

 

The glamour of Monte-Carlo meets punk rock royalty this summer as Billy Idol is set to perform at the prestigious Monaco Red Cross Gala on Friday, July 12, 2025. Held in the elegant setting of the Salle des Étoiles at Sporting Monte-Carlo, the event promises an unforgettable night where philanthropy, elegance, and iconic music collide.

Now in its 75th edition, the Monaco Red Cross Gala is one of the Principality’s most anticipated annual events, blending celebrity, high society, and humanitarian purpose. Under the presidency of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco, the evening raises crucial funds for the humanitarian efforts of the Monaco Red Cross, which supports those in crisis around the globe.

This year’s headline performance by Billy Idol adds a bold new edge to the event’s musical legacy. Known for his rebellious style and hit anthems like White Wedding, Rebel Yell, and Dancing with Myself, Idol brings decades of rock history to the Riviera stage. His magnetic presence and unmistakable voice are expected to electrify the gala’s elegant crowd and mark a dynamic moment in the gala’s storied history.

Beyond the music, the gala includes a gourmet dinner, a charity auction, and a dazzling fireworks show — all set against the backdrop of Monaco’s summer magic. With Billy Idol leading the entertainment, the 2025 gala promises a perfect blend of rock attitude and refined celebration, all in support of a noble cause.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or simply attending to support humanitarian aid, this is one night in Monaco you won’t want to miss.

Friday, July 4, 2025

Fight AIDS Monaco Gala: An Elegant Evening for a Powerful Cause

 

On Saturday, July 5, 2025, the glittering Salle des Étoiles at Sporting Monte-Carlo will once again welcome the annual Fight AIDS Monaco Summer Gala—a glamorous night dedicated to raising awareness and funds for Monaco’s leading HIV/AIDS charity. This year’s event takes center stage with a heartfelt musical tribute to French icon Jean-Jacques Goldman, performed by the acclaimed tribute band Goldmen, as part of the Monte-Carlo Summer Festival.

A Night of Music & Meaning

Taking the stage at 8:00 PM, Goldmen will deliver a moving homage to Goldman’s timeless hits, kicking off the summer festival season in style. Their performance adds emotional resonance to an evening that’s as much about giving as it is about entertainment.

Charity with Royal Backing

Founded under the patronage of H.S.H. Princess Stéphanie, Fight AIDS Monaco works year-round to support those living with HIV and combat the stigma surrounding the disease. Proceeds from the gala help fund essential services such as education, counseling, financial aid, and outreach both locally and internationally.

Event Essentials

  • Date & Time: Saturday, July 5, 2025, at 8:00 PM

  • Venue: Salle des Étoiles, Sporting Monte-Carlo (26 Av. Princesse Grace)

  • Tickets: €130 for concert-only access; dinner and show packages from €260

Highlights of the Evening

  • Live concert by Goldmen celebrating the music of Jean-Jacques Goldman

  • Luxury raffle with prizes from top-tier brands like Cartier, Piaget, Lalique, and Christian Louboutin

Why Your Presence Matters

The Fight AIDS Monaco Gala is more than a night of elegance—it’s a lifeline. Funds raised support direct aid for people living with HIV, from psychological and financial support to cultural and sports activities that restore dignity and joy. By attending, guests are not just entertained—they become part of a larger movement of compassion, advocacy, and change.

Wednesday, July 2, 2025

Grace: A Royal Icon Revealed

 

From July 5 to September 14, step beyond the spotlight and into the private world of Grace Kelly at the Prince's Palace of Monaco. The new "Grace" #1 exhibition unveils the Hollywood legend’s most intimate moments through never-before-seen photos and personal belongings.

Set in 90 m² of elegant, softly lit rooms inside the Grand Apartments, this sensory journey curated by Natalia Mlodzikowska and Marie-Eve Mestre reveals four sides of Grace: the carefree young woman, devoted wife, loving mother, and behind-the-lens photographer.

Standout pieces include her signature Hermès Kelly bag, eyewear, gloves, hats, and even a floral tapestry showcasing her secret passion for nature. Complete with rose scents and birdsong, the exhibition offers an unexpected and touching portrait of Monaco’s beloved Princess.

Hours:
• July 5–Aug 31: 10 AM–6 PM
• Sept 1–14: 10 AM–5 PM

Location: Grand Apartments, Prince's Palace of Monaco