Monaco Pride Turns 4: A Night of Unity, Visibility, and the Call for Equality

 

On Thursday night, Monaco’s Port came alive with celebration as Monaco Pride marked its 4th anniversary at Marius Monaco. Nearly 200 attendees—spanning government officials, business leaders, association members, and the LGBTI community—gathered to honor progress and push for change in the Principality.

The evening featured powerful speeches from Monaco Pride co-founders Lorenzo Turco, Hervé Aeschbach, and Annette Anderson, as well as Gaelle Migani, COO of Barclays Private Bank Monaco, and Anaïs Berruti, co-founder of the association MonArcEnCiel.

Monaco Pride was founded in 2021 to highlight the LGBTI community’s contributions to Monaco and to spark conversation around the civil rights gap many face. As Lorenzo Turco emphasized, thousands of LGBTI individuals who live and work in Monaco remain without basic protections, such as recognition of same-sex marriages, adoption rights, and access to spousal benefits. Currently, Monaco ranks 43rd out of 49 countries on the Rainbow Map, a European index measuring LGBTI rights.

Co-founder Annette Anderson passionately urged the community not to stay silent out of fear, quoting Barack Obama: “We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.” Her message was echoed by Hervé Aeschbach, the former director of Fight Aids Monaco who called on the crowd to “make some noise” for equal rights.

Anaïs Berruti reflected on MonArcEnCiel’s first year, noting the association’s growing momentum and its mission to establish a real, constructive dialogue with decision-makers. “It’s time to move things forward—together,” she said. The Association is currently recruiting new members and sponsors.

Barclays continues to stand out as a corporate ally, with Gaelle Migani and Ben Hood reaffirming the bank’s commitment to inclusion and diversity. To celebrate Monaco Pride, Barclays illuminated its building on Avenue de la Costa in rainbow colors.

The evening also included live music performances by Fat Cat Hackett and the Diva Darlings, as well as a vibrant networking atmosphere that left participants inspired and connected.

Special thanks were extended to everyone involved—especially Marius Monaco for generously hosting the event space.

Monaco Pride may be young, but it’s growing stronger each year—amplifying voices, building bridges, and demanding equal recognition for all.

Photo credit: Frédéric Nebinger

Sky-High Sips & Bites: Rooftop Restaurants and Bars on the French Riviera and Monaco

 

From glittering sea views to golden sunsets over hilltop villages, the French Riviera offers a dreamscape that's best admired from above. Rooftop restaurants and bars across the Côte d’Azur combine jaw-dropping views with top-tier cuisine and cocktails, making them must-visit spots for travelers and locals alike. Whether you're seeking a romantic dinner, a sunset aperitif, or a chic night out, here are some of the best rooftop venues from Monaco to Saint-Tropez.

1. Eden-Roc Lounge – Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, Antibes

Perched above the Mediterranean on the tip of Cap d’Antibes, the Eden-Roc Lounge is an icon of Riviera luxury. This exclusive rooftop terrace pairs panoramic sea views with expertly crafted cocktails, Champagne, and a menu that highlights local flavors. While reservations are essential, the experience is unforgettable—especially at sunset.

2. Horizon Rooftop – Fairmont Monte Carlo, Monaco

Right in the heart of the principality, Horizon Rooftop offers 360-degree views of the sea, the Rock of Monaco, and the glamorous Grand Prix hairpin turn below. Known for its upscale Mediterranean cuisine, seafood specialties, and exceptional wine list, it's a top pick for both lunch with a view and sophisticated evening dinners.

3. La Terrasse du Plaza – Nice

One of Nice’s best-kept secrets, this stylish rooftop atop the Hotel Plaza boasts sweeping views over the Promenade des Anglais and the Baie des Anges. The vibe is chic but relaxed, with a menu of contemporary French cuisine, rosé by the bottle, and live DJ sets during summer evenings that turn the rooftop into a lively lounge.

4. Les Toits – Hôtel de Paris, Saint-Tropez

In the heart of the legendary village, Les Toits at Hôtel de Paris is a rooftop oasis above the hustle and bustle. A stylish pool, plush loungers, and an elegant restaurant make it perfect for a luxurious lunch or dinner under the stars. The menu features fresh Provençal ingredients and inventive cocktails to match the setting.

5. SEEN Rooftop – Anantara Plaza, Nice

One of the Riviera’s newest additions, SEEN Rooftop combines vibrant design with a panoramic backdrop of the Bay of Angels. Run by celebrity chef Olivier da Costa, the menu offers a modern fusion of Mediterranean, Japanese, and South American flavors, along with a lively ambiance and creative mixology.

6. The Roof – Five Seas Hotel, Cannes

Just a few steps from the Palais des Festivals, The Roof is a favorite among the film festival crowd. This intimate rooftop combines a cozy ambiance with elegant bites and cocktails, centered around a pool deck and lush greenery. Expect a relaxed yet fashionable crowd and an unbeatable view over Cannes’ rooftops.

7. Blue Gin – Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, Monaco

Though technically not on a rooftop, Blue Gin’s elevated terrace feels sky-high above the sea. Known as the “waterfront lounge,” it offers a chic, club-like setting with DJ sets, signature cocktails, and a view that melts into the Mediterranean horizon. It’s a hotspot during summer nights in Monaco.

8. The Lounge Bar - Hotel Radisson Blu 1835, Cannes

In Cannes, on the 7th floor of the Radisson Blu 1835 opposite the Old Port, steps away from the center of the city, cocktails are served with a twist of magic. On the intimate panoramic terrace with designer furniture, get lost in contemplation of one of the most beautiful shorelines on the Côte d'Azur.

Tips for Rooftop Revelry

• Dress the part: Most rooftop venues enforce smart-casual or upscale attire, especially after sunset.

• Make reservations: Tables with the best views go quickly—book ahead whenever possible.

• Time your visit: Sunset is prime time, but a late lunch or starlit dinner can be just as magical.

These are just a suggestion of the many rooftop restaurants and bars to experience. Whether you're sipping Champagne in Monaco or enjoying Provençal tapas in Nice, the French Riviera’s rooftop scene is where culinary elegance meets coastal beauty—elevated, literally.

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.

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.

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.

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

March with Pride: Nice’s Pink Parade Returns to the Riviera

The Pink Parade is back in Nice on Saturday, July 12, 2025, uniting thousands in a celebration of LGBTQIA+ pride, visibility, and equality along the dazzling Mediterranean coastline.

Parade Details:

Start: 3:30 PM at Place de l’Île de Beauté (Port of Nice / Port Lympia)

Route: Quai Papacino → Quai Lunel → Place Guynemer → Quai des États-Unis → Promenade des Anglais

Afterparty: Kicks off at 6 PM at Théâtre de Verdure – live DJs, performers, and dancing under the stars. (Donate to skip the line!)

 

More than just a march, LGBTQ establishments will be hosting an array of events throughout the weekend, and the Pink Parade is a call to action: fighting for inclusive rights such as blood donation equality, workplace protections, PMA access, and full recognition of LGBTQIA+ families.

Why You Should Join:

Celebrate Community: Experience one of France’s most vibrant LGBTQ+ scenes outside of Paris.

Feel the Vibe: Costumes, music, flags, and seafront energy make for an unforgettable atmosphere.

Make a Difference: Every marcher adds strength to the movement for equal rights.

What to Bring:

Sunscreen, water, and your most fabulous pride outfit.

Arrive early for a prime spot at the Port and get ready to move, groove, and show your colors!

Whether you’re a local, a traveler, or a proud ally, Nice’s Pink Parade 2025 is your invitation to celebrate love, live boldly, and march for change.

See you at the parade—where pride meets paradise!

Cinémathèque Hors les Murs Returns to Nice Port This Summer

 

This summer, cinema under the stars is back! The Cinémathèque Hors les Murs returns to the Port of Nice with free open-air film screenings every Wednesday at 9:30 PM, running from July 9 to September 3 (except on July 23). Head to the Esplanade de la Douane, where the sea breeze and cinematic gems create an unforgettable coastal evening.

2025 Film Program:

• July 9 – En solitaire by Christophe Offenstein (2013 | 1h36 | French)

• July 16 – Life of Pi by Ang Lee (2012 | 2h07 | English, French subtitles)

• July 30 – A Scene at the Sea by Takeshi Kitano (1999 | 1h41 | Japanese, French subtitles)

• August 6 – All is Lost by J.C. Chandor, starring Robert Redford (2013 | 1h46 | English, French subtitles)

• August 13 – Still the Water by Naomi Kawase (2014 | 2h01 | Japanese, French subtitles)

• August 20 – Le Grand Bleu by Luc Besson (1988 | 2h18 | French & English, subtitled)

• August 27 – Océans by Jacques Perrin & Jacques Cluzaud (2010 | 1h44 | French)

Note: English-language films include Life of Pi, All is Lost, and Le Grand Bleu (partially), making this series especially accessible for international audiences. Enjoy an evening of cinema by the sea!

Monaco Pride 2025: A Small Nation Making a Big Stand for Equality

 

Monaco Pride 2025 returns this July with a powerful message: that even in one of the world’s smallest and most exclusive countries, the fight for LGBTQ+ visibility, inclusion, and equality is alive and growing.

Now in its fourth year, Monaco Pride is more than just a symbolic gathering—it’s a statement of solidarity. Co-hosted by Barclays Bank and Fight Aids Monaco, this year’s event takes place on Thursday, July 10, at the stylish Marius Monaco restaurant along the port (6 Quai Antoine 1er).

Set against the glittering Mediterranean backdrop, the event will welcome around 150 invited guests, including figures from government, business, Mon’Arc en ceil, and the LGBTQI+ community. Speeches will begin at 6:30 p.m., following a welcoming reception at 6 p.m.

While the scale may seem modest, Monaco Pride represents a significant and growing movement in a country where LGBTQ+ rights have historically progressed more slowly than in neighboring nations.

Over the past few years, the LGBTQ+ community in Monaco has worked tirelessly to raise awareness, foster allyship, and advocate for greater legal protections. Events like Monaco Pride are crucial steps in that journey, providing a safe and visible platform for connection, dialogue, and change.

Monaco’s LGBTQ+ advocates continue to call for anti-discrimination protections, family rights, and wider social acceptance. Pride offers an opportunity not only to celebrate the community’s achievements but also to remind society that the work is far from over. In a principality known for luxury and tradition, it takes courage and commitment to push for inclusivity—and Monaco Pride 2025 is proof that the movement is gaining strength.

Small but mighty, Monaco’s LGBTQ+ community is charting a new course—one of dignity, diversity, and pride.

The Myths of Living in Monaco — And Why It’s an Ideal Place to Invest in Real Estate

 

The tiny Mediterranean Principality of Monaco has long captivated the world with its image of glitz, glamour, and wealth. With superyachts lining its harbor and luxury cars weaving through its iconic streets, it’s no surprise that many associate Monaco with exclusivity beyond reach. But beneath the surface lies a more nuanced reality. Despite the stereotypes, Monaco offers genuine lifestyle, economic, and investment benefits — especially in real estate — that are often misunderstood.

Myth #1: Monaco Is Only for the Ultra-Rich

It’s true that Monaco has one of the highest concentrations of millionaires and billionaires per capita. However, not every resident is a magnate or celebrity. The principality is also home to professionals, entrepreneurs, and families - including an extensive number of LGBTQ members of the community, who choose Monaco for its safety, efficiency, and exceptional quality of life. There are also more modest housing options, especially in areas like La Condamine or Fontvieille, compared to the luxury high-rises of Monte-Carlo.

Myth #2: There’s Nothing to Do Except Gamble or Party

While the Monte-Carlo Casino is iconic, Monaco is far more than a playground for high rollers. It offers a rich cultural life, with the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra, the Ballets de Monte-Carlo, museums, exhibitions, and world-class events like the Monaco Grand Prix and the Yacht Show. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Principality does have beaches and the French and Italian Rivieras are just minutes away, offering skiing, hiking, swimming and sailing all year round. Monaco is also a prime location for those interested in networking as it has quite an intriguing international community that both live and work there. Including an ever-growing tech industry.

Myth #3: Real Estate in Monaco Is Overpriced and Overhyped

Monaco’s real estate market is among the most expensive in the world — that much is true. However, its enduring value and resilience make it one of the most stable property markets globally. With a strict cap on land and limited space for new development, property in Monaco is perpetually in demand. While prices are high, they have proven remarkably resilient to global economic downturns, making them ideal for long-term capital preservation and return.

Why Monaco Is an Ideal Place to Invest in Real Estate

1. Political and Economic Stability

Monaco is a sovereign state with a long-standing monarchy and a stable government. It boasts no public debt, a balanced budget, and a strong, diversified economy centered on banking, tourism, and high-end services. Investors benefit from this low-risk environment and the principality’s robust legal protections.

2. Tax Benefits

Monaco famously levies no personal income tax for residents (except for French nationals). This tax neutrality has attracted high-net-worth individuals and entrepreneurs alike, making it an ideal base for wealth protection and estate planning — and, by extension, a constant demand for luxury residences.

3. Strong Rental Demand

Given the influx of international professionals, diplomats, and seasonal visitors, rental properties in Monaco see consistently high demand. This makes it attractive for investors looking for rental yield in addition to capital appreciation.

4. Limited Supply = High Demand

With only 2 square kilometers of land and strict building regulations, Monaco has a hard cap on expansion. This structural constraint ensures that demand always exceeds supply, protecting real estate value and making it a rare safe haven in global property investment.

5. Safe and Clean Urban Living

Monaco is one of the safest places in the world, with a high police-to-citizen ratio and near-zero crime. It’s also meticulously maintained, with clean streets, green spaces, and world-class healthcare and education. These quality-of-life factors further fuel demand and keep real estate prices buoyant.

Conclusion: The Monaco Advantage

Far from being just a glittering tax haven for the ultra-rich, Monaco is a well-governed, secure, and culturally rich principality with a robust real estate market. Its property sector offers more than prestige — it delivers long-term value, income potential, and financial security. While myths about life in Monaco persist, the reality is far more practical, dynamic, and welcoming than many realize.

For investors looking to combine lifestyle with capital preservation, Monaco remains one of the most compelling real estate markets in the world.

Support the New Pink Parade Initiative

 

Behind every colorful float, vibrant flag, and joyful step of a Pride parade is a hardworking team of LGBTQIA+ advocates, nonprofit organizers, event coordinators, and volunteers. These are the people who meet month after month—balancing logistics, budgets, programming, and partnerships—all with one goal: to create a Pride celebration that uplifts, empowers, and includes everyone.

But bringing Pride to life isn’t easy—or cheap.

What It Takes to Put on a Parade

Before pulling up a flag, organizers must secure permits for street closures, sound and noise regulations, public safety plans, and security coordination. These negotiations with local authorities can take months and require deep attention to detail.

Then come the real costs:

• Equipment rentals (stages, speakers, lighting, fencing)
  

• Safety services (medical staff, security teams)
  

• Insurance, permits, clean-up crews, and more
  

While major cities may rely on large corporate sponsorships, Nice’s Pink Parade is proudly free to attend and powered by donations and community support. Every euro raised helps cover critical expenses so we can keep the parade open, safe, and inclusive for all.

Introducing: The New Pink Parade Initiative

This year, the team for the Pink Parade are launching an exciting way to give back—and get something fabulous in return.

Simply Scan the QR Code to Donate

When you make a donation to support the Pink Parade, you’ll receive an exclusive Pink Party Pass—your cut-in-line ticket for faster access to the official after-party following the march. It's our way of saying thank you, and your way of showing real solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community.

Why Donate?

• You’re helping keep Pride free for everyone.
  

• You’re investing in safety, representation, and joy.
  

• You’re supporting an event that celebrates visibility, love, and resistance.
  

Pride isn’t just a day—it’s a movement. Be a part of it.

Donate. March. Celebrate.

Together, let’s make this year’s Pink Parade unforgettable.

Coco Chanel’s Roaring Riviera: A Dazzling New Exhibition Opens at Villa Paloma in Monaco

 

On 19 June 2025, the Nouveau Musée National de Monaco at Villa Paloma unveiled Les Années folles de Coco Chanel, a captivating new exhibition dedicated to the creative brilliance of Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel during the exuberant 1920s along the Côte d’Azur.

The opening ceremony was attended by Princess Caroline of Hanover, joined by her daughters Charlotte Casiraghi and Princess Alexandra, as well as Alexandra’s partner, Ben‑Sylvester Strautmann. Princess Caroline’s presence, as President of the NMNM board, underscored the exhibition’s cultural weight and its celebration of the intersection between fashion and the arts.

Curated by Célia Bernasconi, the exhibition brings together more than 200 works. Among them are 30 iconic Chanel ensembles and accessories, paired with 40 pieces by artistic giants like Picasso, Van Dongen, Laurencin, Gontcharova, Delaunay, and Cocteau. Vintage photography by Man Ray and Edward Steichen adds further depth to this visually rich journey.

The exhibition unfolds across three thematic chapters:

• Outdoor Living & Seaside Leisure Highlighting Chanel’s revolutionary jersey garments designed for an active lifestyle on golf courses, tennis courts, and yachts.

• Ballets Russes & Slavic Influence Featuring Chanel’s famed Le Train Bleu costume, a collaboration with Jean Cocteau and inspired by the Monte-Carlo ballet scene.

• The Birth of Riviera Style Showcasing Chanel’s early Riviera boutique in Monte-Carlo, the launch of her iconic No. 5 perfume in Grasse in 1921, and the creation of her Villa La Pausa in 1928.

  
  Complementing the historical content, contemporary artist Chloé Royer offers a modern counterpoint with her sculptural installation Of Limbs and Other Things, which explores themes of feminine identity and transformation—echoing Chanel’s own legacy.
  
  Exhibition Information:

• Dates: 19 June – 28 September 2025

• Opening Hours: Daily 10:00–18:00 (extended to 11:00–19:00 in July and August)

• Admission: €6 (reduced €4); free entry on Sundays

Les Années folles de Coco Chanel is not just an exhibition—it is an ode to Chanel’s radical influence on fashion, femininity, and freedom. Through the lens of the Riviera's golden age, it paints a portrait of a woman who reshaped modern style and cultural expression.

If you’re in Monaco this summer, don’t miss this elegant journey into the heart of Chanel’s artistic revolution.

First LGBTQ Retirement Home Set to Open in France

France is on the verge of a historic milestone with the upcoming opening of its first LGBTQ+ retirement home in Lyon. Scheduled to welcome residents in autumn 2025, the Maison de la Diversité — or House of Diversity — is located in the city’s charming Croix-Rousse neighborhood. More than just a housing project, it is a bold response to the isolation, discrimination, and invisibility that many LGBTQ+ seniors face.

Why It Matters

Older LGBTQ+ individuals have often lived through decades of repression, many without the support of children or extended families. Studies show that 65% of LGBTQ+ seniors live alone — a stark contrast to 15% of heterosexual seniors under 70. Suicide rates among them are 2–7 times higher. The Maison de la Diversité aims to counter this isolation with a safe, inclusive, and supportive living environment.

 A Place to Be Yourself

Inclusive and Intergenerational

Primarily designed for those over 55, the home also reserves one unit for a student resident to promote cross-generational exchange. The goal is to build a community rooted in mutual respect and solidarity.

Community-Driven Design

The 680 m² residence spans five stories and houses 16 apartments (T1 and T2), each accessible via elevator and connected by outdoor walkways. In addition to private units, residents share 120 m² of communal space and a 200 m² garden — fostering daily interaction and companionship.

 

Charter of Shared Values

All residents agree to a charter emphasizing LGBTQ+ values, inclusion, and cooperation. While LGBTQ+ people are the primary focus, the home is also open to allies who support its mission.

Design & Comfort

 

Modern and Eco-Conscious

The building is fully accessible and constructed using hemp-based materials, targeting high environmental standards.

Functional Living Spaces

It features 9 units at intermediate rent and 7 at subsidized social rates, with apartments ranging from 24 to 42 m², each equipped with a kitchen, bathroom, and living/sleeping areas.

Shared Amenities

The residence includes activity rooms, a laundry area, guest accommodations, a bike garage, and a garden, all designed to support healthy aging and social connection.

From Vision to Reality

A Community Effort
First proposed in 2022, the project received unanimous support from Lyon’s city council. Construction began in mid-2023 and is slated for completion by late 2024 or early 2025.

Broad Support Network

Backers include the City of Lyon, Métropole de Lyon, Croix-Rouge Habitat, and nonprofit Les Audacieuses & Les Audacieux. Mayor Grégory Doucet called the project a reflection of Lyon’s commitment to inclusivity and human dignity.

Scalable Model

Organizers hope this pioneering project will be just the beginning, with plans to establish 10 similar retirement homes across France over the next decade.

Voices from Within

Christophe Dercamp, general coordinator, describes the home as “a cocoon... a bubble of kindness, mutual aid, and solidarity between generations and neighbours.”

One future resident, François, told LyonMag:

“I could leave home wearing glitter — I know I’ll be safe.”

A National Movement Begins

While LGBTQ+-focused senior housing exists in countries like the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands, Maison de la Diversité is a first for France. Lyon’s initiative could inspire similar projects in cities such as Paris, Marseille, Nice, Bordeaux, and Nantes, which are reportedly considering their own LGBTQ+ senior residences.

Looking Ahead

Set to open at 65 rue de Belfort, the Maison de la Diversité is more than a housing complex — it’s a symbol of social progress and belonging. For LGBTQ+ seniors, it offers not just a home, but a place to live freely, authentically, and surrounded by community.

In Summary

Lyon’s Maison de la Diversité challenges the invisibility that too often accompanies aging within the LGBTQ+ community. It’s a place where dignity, safety, and joy converge — proving that you can grow old and still sparkle on your own terms.

Dolly Party – Fête de la Musique 2025

 

The iconic Dolly Party returns to light up Nice on June 21, transforming Place du Pin into an exciting celebration of music, identity, and community. Organized by the Centre LGBTQIA+ Côte d’Azur in partnership with the City of Nice, this open-air music festival is a cornerstone of Pride and the Fête de la Musique.

What Is the Dolly Party?

Originally launched as the “Dolly Fête de la Musique,” this annual event has grown into a beloved Riviera tradition. Held on the summer solstice, it brings the streets to life with:

Electro & House DJ Sets – A stellar lineup including Nicolas Dermen, Ben Crafter, Jisse, FredSki, and Anna Crouse.

Immersive Visuals – Building façades transformed by projections from artist Moya, plus dazzling lighting and dancefloor energy.

Community Action – Info booths, free HIV/STI testing, vaccination services, and prevention outreach led by local associations.

Neighborhood Support – Surrounding bars, cafés, and restaurants join the festivities, with proceeds supporting the Centre’s vital advocacy work.

More Than a Party – A Celebration of Identity & Inclusion

 

Empowerment Through Festivity

Dolly is not just a celebration—it's a joyful act of resistance, a public affirmation of LGBTQIA+ visibility and pride.

An Inclusive, Safer Space

Everyone is welcome in this non-judgmental atmosphere. With controlled entry points and a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination, Dolly offers a space where all identities can feel safe, seen, and supported.

Support That Lasts Beyond the Night

Funds raised go directly toward the Centre’s year-round efforts—legal advocacy, health outreach, and support services for LGBTQIA+ individuals across the region.

Why It Matters

Visibility & Belonging
By taking over a central square, Dolly celebrates queer presence in the heart of the city—amplifying voices and strengthening community ties.

A Safer Gathering
Dolly is a carefully managed event with entry checks and supervision, ensuring safety while preserving freedom and joy.

Awareness in Action
Through partnerships with organizations like AIDES and ENIPSE, attendees can access essential health services in an engaging, accessible environment.

Fundraising for Impact
The event directly supports the LGBTQIA+ Centre’s work across the Côte d’Azur—combating discrimination, promoting public health, and building community resilience.

What to Expect in 2025

When: Saturday, June 21 | 18:00–00:00
Where: Place du Pin & Rue Bonaparte, Nice
Entry: Free and open to all | Secured access with bag checks
Atmosphere: An exhilarating mix of beats, lights, community, and care—bringing together the essence of Pride and music festival magic.

Beyond June – A Cultural Staple

Dolly isn’t just a once-a-year affair. On August 14, the beloved Dolly White Party takes over Place du Pin once again—this time with an all-white dress code, drag performances, striking visuals, and continued fundraising for LGBTQIA+ causes.

Nice itself is a city proud of its inclusive spirit. From beaches to bars like Le Glam, it remains a welcoming destination where events like Dolly play a vital role in strengthening LGBTQIA+ culture and connection.

In Summary

The Dolly Party is a living celebration—bold, inclusive, full of joy and purpose.

On June 21, music and solidarity will pulse through the streets of Nice. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, LGBTQIA+ or an ally, this is your invitation to dance, connect, and be part of something meaningful.

Bring your energy. Bring your heart. And celebrate a community that celebrates you.