High society and humanitarian advocacy intersected on Saturday, July 18, as Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene presided over the 77th annual Monaco Red Cross Gala. Held in the iconic Salle des Étoiles at the Sporting Monte-Carlo, the flagship philanthropic gathering highlighted the ongoing effort to mobilize private wealth in support of international and local relief missions.
Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene - serving respectively as President and Vice President of the Monegasque Red Cross - headed an assembly of international donors and civic leaders. The evening serves as the primary annual fundraising initiative for the organization, generating critical financial resources to assist vulnerable populations both within the Principality and across global crisis zones.
The gala featured high-profile artistic and culinary contributions from leading European figures. Guests enjoyed a dinner concept developed by two-star Michelin chef Marcel Ravin and executed by Thierry Saez Manzanares, Executive Chef at the Sporting Monte-Carlo, followed by a dessert created by pastry chef Cédric Grolet.
In a notable contribution to the charity's permanent collection, artist Johan Creten formally donated his sculpture Éloge de l’Espoir to the Monegasque Red Cross. The event’s traditional charity raffle, hosted by Estelle Lefébure and Michel Boujenah, offered exclusive lots contributed by luxury fashion houses.
Following a traditional fireworks display illuminating the Mediterranean sky, attendees were treated to an advance preview of SOUL! Where Legends Come Back. Produced by Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, the stage production celebrates the heritage of African American music and its lasting influence on global culture.
Photo Credits: Michaël Alesi / Palais princier