On July 18th, Monaco once again vibrated to the rhythm of an exceptional evening during the 77th edition of the Red Cross Gala. This prestigious charity event, held in the sumptuous setting of the Sporting Monte-Carlo, brought together a select group of guests who came to support the humanitarian work carried out by the Monegasque association. Under the leadership of Prince Albert II and Princess Charlène, respectively president and vice-president of the Monegasque Red Cross, the evening celebrated refined gastronomy orchestrated by renowned chefs, blending Mediterranean traditions with culinary boldness. Among the standout dishes, the barbagiuan, a revisited local specialty, and the skillfully prepared langoustines made a sensation. The final touch, a culinary illusion signed by the talented pastry chef Cédric Grolet, delighted the most discerning palates, offering a unique sensory experience combining aesthetics and refined taste.

This annual event is also an opportunity to appreciate the excellence of the wines offered, including a half-bottle of Taittinger Comtes de Champagne 2014, demonstrating the desire to combine charity with epicurean pleasure. Meanwhile, Afro-American music set a festive and vibrant backdrop, amplifying the symbolic significance of the event. The princely couple, a symbol of commitment deeply rooted in the Principality, dazzled with their elegance and availability, perfectly embodying the values of generosity and solidarity dear to Monaco. From the Salle des Étoiles to Jimmy’z Monte-Carlo, this evening successfully combined gastronomy, culture, and charity in perfect alchemy, once again establishing the Red Cross Gala as a must-see of the Monegasque summer.

A prestigious charitable tradition upheld by Charlène and Albert of Monaco

Considered a major event of the Monegasque season, the Red Cross Gala draws its roots from a generous tradition dating back to 1948. Initiated by Prince Louis II, it has perpetuated, over the decades, an invitation to sharing and solidarity through spectacular and committed gatherings. In 2026, this 77th edition once again strengthened this vocation by putting Prince Albert II and Princess Charlène, emblematic figures of the principality and drivers of local humanitarian action, in the spotlight.

Their presence highlights the importance of this event, not only for fundraising, essential to financing the activities of the Monegasque Red Cross, but also to raise public awareness of current social and health challenges. Their personal involvement, renewed each year, testifies to the close relationship between the princely house and the charitable institution. The princely couple’s commitment resonates all the more when considering the event’s impact, where the donations collected contribute to concrete operations in the field, whether for aid to vulnerable people on Monegasque territory or in international missions.

Monaco, through this event, asserts its ambition to combine splendor and responsibility, the nobility of the cause giving full meaning to an evening otherwise marked by discreet yet refined luxury. Every detail, from the staging to the menu composition, reflects this quest for excellence dedicated to charity. The charisma of Charlène and Albert of Monaco thus stands out as a real lever for collective generosity, inspiring guests to associate themselves with this noble cause through their participation.

Gastronomy at the heart of the Monegasque gala: between tradition and creativity

At the center of this evening, gastronomy takes a privileged place, with a gourmet menu designed to offer perfect harmony between flavors, textures, and aesthetics. The welcome cocktail, created by Thierry Saez Manzanares, chef of the Sporting Monte-Carlo, sets the foundation for a refined and full of surprises culinary experience. The attention to detail is expressed through creations as elegant as they are flavorful: lobster slices with bergamot paired with the freshness of salicornia, delicate rolls filled with burrata, basil and semi-dried tomatoes, or bresaola topped with a creamy mascarpone, enhanced by candied porcini mushrooms. A touch of terroir is brought by the revisited barbagiuan, stuffed with olives and purple artichokes, which elegantly recalls the culinary roots of Monaco.

For the main courses, the evening reveals a triple homage to Mediterranean haute cuisine, crafted by the thrice-starred chef Marcel Ravin. His mastery is expressed through delicate dishes such as langoustines accompanied by tender corn and an abyssal broth, or sea bass enhanced by a zucchini flower fondant and a citrus broth with oscietra caviar, sprinkled with salicornia. These bold combinations illustrate the constant search for balance between creativity and respect for noble ingredients, characteristic of the Monegasque gastronomic festival.

The generosity of the evening concludes on a surprisingly sweet note, with the masterful intervention of pastry chef Cédric Grolet. His trompe-l’œil flat peach, a true work of art playing on perception and finesse, closes this starred meal in a flurry of flavors and emotions. This incredible dessert embodies both elegance and imagination, reminding us that gastronomy is also a moment of theater and poetic tasting.

Accompanying this feast, a half-bottle of Grand Cru champagne, Taittinger Comtes de Champagne 2014, invites celebration while bringing the freshness and finesse typical of this mythical grape variety, symbolizing an uncompromising party. The combination of exceptional dishes and prestigious champagnes, developed with the care of a Champagne professional, guarantees perfect harmony between flavors and bubbles, as illustrated by the exceptional champagnes served at major festive events.

The Gala’s standing: an experience accessible through a significant contribution

Participating in such an event requires a substantial financial commitment, an indispensable condition for the generosity of the cause. Participation is priced at 1900 euros per person, including a gourmet dinner, a half-bottle of Grand Cru champagne, and access to the show presented in the famous Salle des Étoiles of the Sporting Monte-Carlo. This exceptional package establishes a framework commensurate with the humanitarian ambitions of the gala, offering guests an experience both luxurious and deeply committed.

This amount represents an investment in the social mission of the Monegasque Red Cross, but also in a high-level cultural and festive experience. Note that additional drinks served later at Jimmy’z Monte-Carlo are not included in this package, highlighting the selective dimension of the evening. The dress code requires a tuxedo for gentlemen and an evening gown for ladies, recalling the importance of savoir-vivre and protocol suited to such a prestigious event.

On the program, a charity tombola offers guests the chance to win prestigious prizes carefully chosen among which are a diamond-set jewelry set from Maison Repossi, an exceptional Audemars Piguet watch, an iconic Dior handbag, or a two-day stay in Dubai for two people. The evening’s entertainment, hosted by actress and presenter Estelle Lefébure as well as comedian Michel Boujenah, contributes to maintaining a joyful and elegant atmosphere. The fireworks, launched from the sea and visible from the Sporting terrace, complete this evening with a final sparkle worthy of the grandest social events.

What is included in the entrance price for the Red Cross Gala

• Gala dinner prepared by starred chefs
• A half-bottle of Grand Cru champagne per guest
• Access to shows in the prestigious Salle des Étoiles
• Participation in the tombola with high-end prizes to win
• Quality entertainment and diversion by performance figures

Culinary illusions: the art and science of dessert by Cédric Grolet

Dessert often constitutes the most anticipated moment of the palate during an exceptional dinner. In 2026, pastry genius Cédric Grolet once again demonstrated his talent by presenting a genuine culinary illusion. His trompe-l’œil flat peach is a feat combining visual aesthetics, textures, and fruity flavors, transporting the guest into a multisensory experience.

Internationally renowned for his ability to transform fruit into sweet creations as realistic as they are dazzling, Cédric Grolet here revisits a classic with an innovative approach, combining cutting-edge techniques and artisanal know-how. This creation goes beyond pleasing the eye; it also invites a rediscovery of the senses through an explosion of natural flavors and the controlled lightness of fine pastry. Through perfect mastery of details, from coloring to texture, this peach synthesizes the very essence of modern pastry art in the context of a grand charity gala.

Offering a delicious contrast to the foie gras and crustaceans in the main course, this final touch fits perfectly into the evening’s dynamic. It also illustrates how contemporary gastronomy often combines pleasure and poetry, making the tasting of a dessert both a spectacle and a celebration of the senses. The invited audience thus has the opportunity to discover creations signed by a recognized artist, in an exceptional setting, a gastronomic experience that only the most prestigious galas can offer.

A reinforced cultural and social anchoring through music and solidarity in Monaco

Beyond gastronomy and haute couture, the Red Cross Gala also stands out for the richness of its cultural activities. This year, Afro-American music was highlighted, bringing a new and dynamic breath to the evening. This artistic tribute reflects a remarkable cultural openness while emphasizing the universal nature of the values upheld by the Red Cross.

The choice of this musical heritage, both vibrant and steeped in history, resonates particularly in the Monegasque context where traditions and innovations intertwine with elegance. Each performance becomes a manifesto in favor of exchange and the celebration of differences, inviting guests to a festive immersion rich in meaning and emotions. The participation of renowned artists in the Salle des Étoiles also underlines the essential role of culture in building a spirit of community and sharing.

This social and cultural dynamic harmoniously complements the excellence offered by gastronomy and the generosity of the guests, thus giving body to an evening that goes beyond mere prestige to represent a true celebration of solidarity. Thanks to such initiatives, Monaco affirms its commitment to combining luxury and responsibility, for the benefit of a cause carried with consistency and passion by Prince Albert and Princess Charlène. Their lasting investment as well as that of the donors make this gala an unmissable and inspiring annual highlight.

What is the traditional date of the Red Cross Gala in Monaco?

The Monegasque Red Cross Gala takes place every year in July, generally in the second half of the month, allowing for a beautiful closure to the summer season.

Which prestigious chefs signed the 2026 Gala menu?

The menu of the 77th edition was orchestrated by Thierry Saez Manzanares for the cocktail, triple-starred chef Marcel Ravin for the main courses, and renowned pastry chef Cédric Grolet for the dessert.

Which culinary specialties marked this edition?

Among the specialties, the revisited barbagiuan, langoustines accompanied by an abyssal broth, and the flat peach culinary illusion by Cédric Grolet particularly caught attention.

What is the price to participate in the Red Cross Gala?

Participation in the gala dinner is set at 1900 euros per person, including the meal, a half-bottle of Grand Cru champagne, access to the show, and participation in the tombola.

How was music honored during this evening?

The evening paid tribute to Afro-American music, offering concerts and performances that added an extra cultural and festive dimension to the Gala.