Monaco's Galaxy Rose Ball: A Stellar 70th Anniversary Gala on the French Riviera
As the first signs of spring emerge along the Cote d'Azur, the annual Bal de la Rose (Rose Ball) heralds the start of the high society party season in Monte-Carlo. Hosted by Prince Albert II of Monaco and Princess Caroline of Hanover, this glittering event celebrated its 70th anniversary on Saturday night, with the Daily Mail receiving an exclusive invitation to one of the French Riviera's most anticipated galas, courtesy of the Monte Carlo Société des Bains de Mer.
A Galactic Transformation for a Noble Cause
The Ball, held to raise funds for the Princess Grace Foundation—named after Hollywood starlet Grace Kelly, the late mother of Prince Albert and Princess Caroline—took place at the Salle des Etoiles. This year, the venue was transformed into a galactical utopia by creative director and designer Christian Louboutin, a close friend of Princess Caroline, aligning with the theme 'Galaxy Rose Ball'. Over 800 guests might have felt transported out-of-this-world as they entered the principality's premier venue, owned by Monte Carlo SBM.
The evening commenced at the Bar Américain in the esteemed Hotel de Paris, an art-deco bar reminiscent of a Roaring Twenties speakeasy. Here, excited attendees gathered for pre-event drinks, showcasing glamorous themed gowns featuring galactical trains, celestial prints, and metallic bodices.
Royal and Celebrity Highlights
The Monegasque Royal Family shone brightly, with Princess Charlene wearing a dazzling, floor-length Elie Saab gown encrusted with gems, her cropped blonde hair styled in waves. Flanked by her husband Prince Albert in a sharp suit, she received a posy of white roses upon arrival. Princess Caroline opted for a classic Chanel polka dot ensemble, accessorized with a silver sequin blazer.
VIP guests included Formula One star Charles Leclerc and his new wife, Alexandra Saint Mleux, making their debut as newlyweds. Alexandra donned a lilac satin gown with rose appliqué detailing, while Charles looked proud in a tuxedo. The Salle des Etoiles was lit up with an impressive laser show, creating the illusion of a rocket ship hurtling through space, complemented by futuristic metallic decor, silver-adorned tables, and stunning white roses.
Exquisite Dining and Entertainment
With tickets costing €1,800, the exclusive event offered fine dining and world-class entertainment. Guests enjoyed a menu starting with sweet white asparagus accompanied by caviar, king crab, spring peas, and bisque sauce, followed by turbot with spring vegetables and hollandaise sauce. The main course featured guinea fowl pithivier with porto wine sauce, but the dessert by Chef Cedric Grolet stole the show—a chocolate mousse and delice shaped delicately as a rose.
Seven artists performed, including the Rondò Veneziano group with a Venetian Baroque act, Parisian Cabaret group Crazy Horse, Russian ballet troupe the Moiseyev Ensemble, Berlin-based stilt performers Dulce Compania, choreographers Cain and Celine Kitsaïs with an interpretive galactic performance, and UK funk and soul band Imagination led by Leee John. DJ Josh Quinton closed the night, keeping the party going into the early hours.
Heartfelt Charity and Legacy
Beneath the glitz, the Ball supports the Princess Grace Foundation, founded in 1964 by Grace Kelly to continue her legacy through humanitarian and arts charity work. The Foundation aids children in hospital, provides medical equipment, funds research into childhood diseases, and supports young performing artists. A charity raffle offered lavish prizes like a Dior tote bag, a stay at Hotel de Paris, and an 18-carat diamond Chanel necklace.
As the evening concluded, guests returned to the Hotel de Paris, welcomed by friendly staff at the Bar Américain with warming digestifs. A smoky old fashioned capped off a stunning celebration of art, culture, and the arrival of warm evenings in Monte-Carlo for another year.
