Why is it a bank holiday in Monaco today and how is it celebrated?

On Tuesday, November 19 Monaco celebrates La Fête du Prince (Prince’s Festival), the principality’s national day. 

It is a day for religious and national celebration – as well as a day off work – but when did it start?

History 

The date of Monaco’s national day was traditionally set by the reigning price on their saint’s day, so changed depending on who was on the throne. 

The first Prince’s Day was celebrated during the reign of Prince Charles III (1856-1889), who founded the famous Monte Carlo casino. 

In the second year of his reign, 1857, Prince Charles declared November 4 to be ‘Sovereign Day’. It was the feast day of his patron saint, Saint Charles. 

The current Prince Albert II, reigning since 2005, decided to keep November 19 as Prince’s Day to honour his father. It was originally chosen by Prince Rainier III as it was the feast of Rainier of Arezzo. 

Celebrations 

Monaco’s national day is usually celebrated with a mass in the Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate on the morning of November 19, attended by the royal family, state officials and ambassadors. 

There is then a military parade accompanied by the orchestra of the Palace Guards, followed by a cannon salute.

Many Monegasques gather in the square outside the Prince’s Palace, to catch a glimpse of Prince Albert, Princess Charlene and their children, who will often make an appearance on the balcony. 

The night before the national day, celebrations include a firework display and funfair in Port Hercule and musical performances. 

Many locals hang the red and white Monegasque flag from their balconies.