Christmas 2025 in Monaco: A Season of Lights, Elegance and Winter Magic

 

Every winter, Monaco becomes one of the most enchanting holiday destinations on the Riviera, and Christmas 2025 promises to be no exception. The festive season officially begins on 29 November 2025, when the Christmas lights illuminate Monte-Carlo and the surrounding streets.

The centrepiece of the celebrations is Place du Casino. A magnificent Christmas tree—soaring more than 20 metres high—rises before the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo, surrounded by themed decorations and festive displays. At night, the Casino’s façade becomes the stage for spectacular sound-and-light shows, adding a magical glow to the heart of the Principality.

The Christmas Village at Port Hercule

One of Monaco’s most popular traditions returns in 2025: the Christmas Village at Port Hercule. Running from 5 December 2025 to 4 January 2026, it stretches along the waterfront at Quai Albert I.

Visitors will find wooden chalets selling festive treats, local products and gifts, along with a charming winter fair atmosphere. Attractions include a Ferris wheel, merry-go-rounds and other seasonal rides. The Sports Village adds even more excitement with zip lines, obstacle courses and climbing activities.

Entertainment is central to the village, with live performances, musicians, festive characters and children’s workshops scheduled throughout the season.

Festive Dining and Seasonal Indulgence

Christmas in Monaco is also a culinary celebration. Major hotels and restaurants across the Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer properties—such as the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo and Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort—celebrate with lavish Christmas decorations and festive dining experiences.

Seasonal menus, gourmet pastries, Christmas teas and special holiday meals enrich the festive atmosphere and offer visitors the chance to enjoy the Principality’s renowned gastronomy. Throughout December, pop-ups and seasonal chalets serve sweets and hot drinks, making the portside strolls warm, cozy and indulgent.

The Monte-Carlo Christmas Ball

Christmas in Monaco also brings with it one of the most glamorous social events of the season: the Monte-Carlo Christmas Ball. In 2025, the Ball celebrates its 20th anniversary and is held on 12 December at the historic Salle Empire of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo. The evening combines high society glamour with charity fundraising, making it a signature Monaco tradition.

A Monaco Christmas Like No Other

During Christmas 2025, Monaco offers far more than just stunning decorations. It creates a complete holiday world: a destination where gourmet dining meets seaside charm, where children and adults alike enjoy festive entertainment, and where every corner of the city participates in the celebration.

Whether wandering through the dazzling lights of Place du Casino, exploring the Christmas Village, or enjoying a festive meal in one of Monaco’s iconic hotels, the Principality brings its signature elegance and creativity to the holiday season—making it one of the most magical places to experience Christmas.

Christmas Magic on the French Riviera: Key Village Dates for Winter 2025–2026

 

As the holiday season approaches, the French Riviera (Côte d’Azur) lights up in a warm and festive glow. Charming Christmas markets, illuminated streets, and plenty of seasonal events make this a magical place to celebrate. Here’s a guide to the top Christmas villages on the Riviera — including Nice, Antibes, Menton, Cannes, Grasse, Saint-Laurent-du-Var, and Saint-Tropez.

Where & When to Celebrate Christmas on the Riviera

Menton

• Dates: December 5, 2025 – January 4, 2026.

• Where: Mail du Bastion & Esplanade Francis-Palmero.
  

• What to See:

  • About 35 wooden chalets filled with artisan gifts and gourmet delights.

  • A patinoire (ice rink), merry-go-rounds, and a festive “forest” of Christmas trees to choose for your home.

  • Daily family entertainment: shows, parades, and Santa’s mailbox from December 5 to 19.

  • Illuminations and a “Way of the Nativity Scenes” running all season.
    

• Opening Hours:

  • From Sunday to Thursday: 10:00 to 19:00

  • On Fridays and Saturdays: 10:00 to 22:00
    

• Extra Magic: On December 5, the Christmas celebrations kick off with an inauguration at the Mail du Bastion starting around 18:00.

Cannes

• Dates: November 28, 2025 – January 4, 2026 for the main Christmas Village.

• Location: The village is set up on the Allées de la Liberté and Cours Félix Faure.
  

• What’s Happening:

  • About 60 chalets of artisans and creators, beautifully lit for the season.

  • A 350 m² ice rink, with sessions for all ages.

  • Children’s workshops on Wednesdays (3, 10, 17 December), and on weekends + daily from December 20 to January 4.

  • Storytelling & Christmas Tales: daily at 15:30 & 17:30.

  • Santa’s Chalet:

    • Inauguration: 28 November, 17:30–20:30.

    • Weekends of December 6–7 and 13–14: 14:30–18:30.

    • Every day from December 20 to 24: 14:30–18:30.

  • Musical Evenings (“Jeudis Musicaux”): Thursdays 4, 11, 18 December, 18:30–19:30, with gospel, fanfares, and concert-style performances.

  • Light Parade: On December 23, a magical illuminated parade starts around 17:30, traveling through several central streets.

  • New Year’s Fireworks: There will be a fireworks show on 31 December at midnight over the bay of Cannes.
    

• Opening Hours for Christmas Village:

  • Sunday–Thursday: 11:00–21:00

  • Friday & Saturday: 11:00–22:00
    

• Other Activities:

  • In Cannes La Bocca (Avenue Pierre Sémard), from December 20 to 24: a “Gourmet Workshop” where kids can make sweet Christmas treats, enjoy stories, and meet Santa & Mrs. Claus.

  • At the Carlton Hotel in Cannes, there’s a “Jardin Enchanté” (Enchanted Garden) from 21 November 2025 to 11 January 2026, featuring a skating rink and gospel concerts.

A Broader Riviera Christmas Tour

Here’s how these new additions (Menton, Cannes) fit in the larger Riviera holiday picture:

• Nice: The traditional Christmas Village in Jardin Albert 1er / Place Masséna remains a centerpiece for festive crafts, food, and entertainment.

• Antibes & Juan-les-Pins: With wooden chalets, a Ferris wheel, a small train, an ice rink, and more — ideal for family outings.

• Menton: Provides a more intimate, charming feel with its own forest of Christmas trees, skating, and local artisans.

• Cannes: Offers a sophisticated and varied Christmas experience — artisan chalets, a large ice rink, musical performances, a parade, and even a hotel garden spectacle.

• Grasse / Pays de Grasse: Light festivals, Christmas markets in smaller villages, and artistic workshops.

• Saint-Laurent-du-Var: A cozy park transformed into a winter wonderland — rides, chalet, ice rink.

• Saint-Tropez: Idyllic harbor illuminations, a “Christmas farm,” sea-arriving Santa, and a festive gondola-like ride.

Why These Christmas Villages Are Special

• Mediterranean Flair: Unlike alpine Christmas markets, the Riviera combines traditional wooden chalets with palm-tree-lined streets and a mild winter climate.

• Family Delight: Whether it’s skating, meeting Santa, horse-drawn carriages, or creative workshops, these markets are very kid-friendly.

• Craftsmanship Meets Local Flavor: Many chalets showcase Provençal artisans, gourmet food, and regional specialties.

• Photogenic Charm: From the harbor in Cannes to the bastion in Menton, the Riviera’s Christmas décor is sublime for evening strolls and holiday photos.

Practical Tips for Visitors

1. Check Local Schedules: Times and events vary a lot — particularly for parades, workshops, and ice rink sessions.

2. Use Public Transit: Parking can be difficult in town centers, especially on weekends in December.

3. Dress in Layers: Even though it’s warmer than in mountain regions, nights can be chilly by the coast.

4. Plan Around Weekends: The biggest shows, parades, and fireworks often happen on weekends — book ahead if you’re staying locally.

Final Thoughts

Christmas 2025 on the French Riviera is shaping up to be an enchanting mix of tradition and elegance. Whether you stroll through Menton’s charming chalets, skate on Cannes’s ice rink, or enjoy a parade under the Riviera sky, this holiday season promises something magical for everyone.

Le Croque Bedaine Nice: A Warm, Inclusive Spot in the Heart of the City

 

In a city known for its lively café culture and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere, Le Croque Bedaine has carved out a special place for itself. Located just steps from the buzz of central Nice, this popular beer-and-croque bar has become a favorite among locals, visitors, and anyone looking for a casual, friendly place to unwind.

A Cozy Concept With a Gourmet Twist

Le Croque Bedaine’s charm lies in its simple yet irresistible concept: generous, gourmet croques paired with a curated selection of beers. Comforting, unfussy, and delicious, their signature croque-monsieur–style creations come in inventive varieties—from truffle-infused recipes to cheese-rich specialties—making it a go-to stop for food lovers who want quality without the formality.

Guests consistently praise the warm ambiance, attentive staff, and relaxed atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you immediately feel at ease, whether you’re dropping in for a casual lunch, meeting friends after work, or settling in for a full evening.

A Welcoming, Inclusive Environment

One of Le Croque Bedaine’s defining strengths is its genuinely welcoming spirit. Visitors highlight the friendly service, positive energy, and comfortable setting—an approach that makes the bar feel open and accessible to everyone.

While the establishment does not market itself as a gay bar, it has organically become known as LGBT-friendly, appealing to many within Nice’s diverse LGBTQ community who value laid-back, inclusive spaces. The emphasis on conviviality, kindness, and making guests feel “at home” creates an atmosphere where people of all backgrounds can enjoy themselves freely.

Accessible facilities also enhance its inclusive reputation, making the venue accommodating not only socially but physically as well.

A Neighborhood Favorite With Community Vibes

Le Croque Bedaine is loved not only for its food but also for its community-minded spirit. The venue is equipped for private events, casual gatherings, and group celebrations, adding versatility to its charm. Whether you’re a local looking for a reliable, friendly hangout or a visitor eager to sample Nice’s easygoing food scene, the bar offers an experience that is both satisfying and authentically warm.

A Place Where Everyone Feels at Home

Nice has no shortage of good restaurants, but few combine comfort food, great beer, and genuine hospitality quite like Le Croque Bedaine. Its LGBT-friendly reputation, inclusive vibe, and consistently kind service make it a standout destination for anyone seeking a relaxed, enjoyable spot with heart.

In a city built on sunshine and openness, Le Croque Bedaine fits right in—serving great food, good energy, and a welcoming atmosphere that keeps people coming back.

Photo Credit: Le Croque Bedaine

Inside Riviera Buzz: The French Riviera’s Premier Online Magazine

 

Back in February 2011, when blogs were still the platform of choice, I launched the original Gay French Riviera as a small guide for both visitors and locals discovering the region.

A few months later—back when Facebook pages were thriving—I came across some insightful regional articles on the Riviera Buzz Facebook page. Already deeply interested (some might say obsessed) with the French Riviera, I reached out to the editor, Iarla Byrne, to ask how I might contribute. After a quick exchange, he invited me to propose a few article ideas. Not long after, I attended a writers’ meeting in Vieux Nice, where I met Iarla and the rest of the contributing team.

Before I knew it, I was fortunate enough to begin writing regularly, covering a wide range of topics throughout the region, particularly those connected to the local LGBTQ community.

Working with Iarla has always been a pleasure—he’s open-minded, collaborative, and consistently supportive of fresh ideas and new directions that help showcase the richness of the region and its communities.

Today, Riviera Buzz is experiencing a revival not only across the French Riviera but throughout France. It has increasingly become the “go-to” online media source for travelers, newcomers, and anyone seeking reliable updates about the area. This is my perspective on the publication and why it remains such an important platform for the region.

An English-Language Voice at the Heart of the Côte d’Azur

Riviera Buzz has become one of the leading English-language online magazines dedicated to life, culture, and style on the French Riviera. Aimed at both the region’s large anglophone community and its millions of international visitors, it delivers daily insights into what’s happening along the Côte d’Azur and beyond.

A Targeted and Influential Audience

The magazine reaches a particularly valuable readership: more than 300,000 English-speaking residents in the region, along with the many millions of tourists who visit the Riviera every year. A significant portion of this audience owns property locally and has high purchasing power — making Riviera Buzz especially appealing for luxury brands and local businesses seeking a well-defined demographic.

A Rich and Diverse Editorial Line

Riviera Buzz covers the full spectrum of Riviera life through engaging, well-crafted content:

• Arts & Culture: exhibitions, local artists, cultural institutions, and major events.

• What’s On: a weekly guide to the most important happenings on the Côte d’Azur — festivals, concerts, theatre, exhibitions, and more.

• Lifestyle: fashion, wellness, design, and trends that define the Mediterranean art de vivre.

• Food & Drink: restaurant recommendations, culinary trends, and gourmet discoveries.

• Property & Real Estate: insights into the region’s unique and highly desirable luxury property market.

• Travel & Exploration: guides to iconic Riviera destinations such as Nice, Cannes, Monaco, and the surrounding hilltop villages.

  
  A Powerful Platform for Advertisers

  With its international reach and clearly defined audience, Riviera Buzz offers a strategic platform for advertising. Brands can position themselves directly in front of affluent residents and travelers through display campaigns, sponsored articles, and digital partnerships. The magazine also leverages its social media presence to expand visibility and engagement.

  A Magazine with Substance

  Though digital, Riviera Buzz provides more than quick lifestyle snippets. Its articles are often detailed, thoughtfully written, and crafted by contributors who know the region intimately. Coverage ranges from high-level cultural events — such as ballet performances in Monaco — to innovative art installations, community stories, and in-depth looks at Riviera real estate trends.

  A Growing Online Presence

  Riviera Buzz continues to expand thanks to:

• Strong demand from expats and anglophones seeking reliable local information.

• A premium lifestyle focus well aligned with the image of the French Riviera.

• A smart advertising strategy that appeals to high-end brands and regional partners.

Conclusion

Riviera Buzz plays a significant role in the media landscape of the Côte d’Azur. More than just a news source, it is a lifestyle guide for an international, discerning audience. With its blend of culture, food, real estate, and events, the magazine captures the soul of the Riviera and delivers it to readers around the world.

If you are based on the French Riviera and have an idea, subject matter, or story you believe deserves attention, or if you simply have a passion for writing, you are welcome to reach out at: Info@Riviera-Buzz.com