Monaco's royal family is preparing for one of the most important celebrations on its calendar, and Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene are making sure a special tradition continues.
Ahead of Monaco's National Day on November 19, the royal couple will once again offer gifts to the principality's senior residents, honoring a longstanding custom that brings the royal family closer to the local community.
© VALERY HACHEThe Prince's Palace shared the announcement on social media, revealing that Monegasque residents aged 60 and older will be eligible to receive presents as part of the annual festivities.
While Prince Albert and Princess Charlene are behind the gesture, another member of the royal family will have a particularly meaningful role in the celebrations.
Princess Stéphanie takes on a special role:
According to the palace, Prince Albert's younger sister will personally distribute the gifts on Wednesday, November 18, beginning at 2:30 p.m. at the Foyer des Aînés Monégasques on Avenue de la Quarantaine.
© Tristar MediaThe occasion will take place just one day before Monaco's National Day, giving Princess Stéphanie an opportunity to connect with some of the principality's older residents ahead of the larger celebrations.
The palace explained that the gift-giving initiative is an annual tradition, with Prince Albert and Princess Charlene continuing the custom of recognizing Monaco's senior citizens.
© Europa Press EntertainmentResidents hoping to participate must register between October 20 and October 22, either by contacting the palace by telephone or through its official website.
For Princess Stéphanie, the occasion represents another opportunity to take part in the principality's community life. The princess has long been involved in charitable initiatives, particularly through her work supporting people living with HIV and AIDS through Fight Aids Monaco.
Monaco prepares for its National Day celebrations:
The special gift distribution comes as Monaco prepares to celebrate its National Day, also known as La Fête du Prince, on November 19.
The annual occasion is one of the most significant dates for the Grimaldi family, traditionally bringing together senior royals for official ceremonies and public appearances.
© Tristar MediaCelebrations typically include a Thanksgiving Mass at Monaco Cathedral, a military ceremony at the Prince's Palace and appearances by members of the princely family, who often greet crowds gathered outside the palace.
Princess Charlene and Prince Albert's children, Hereditary Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, have also participated in previous National Day celebrations, making the occasion an opportunity for several generations of the family to come together.
© Tristar MediaThe festivities are also closely watched by royal fashion enthusiasts, with Princess Charlene and other members of the family often choosing elegant ensembles for the formal engagements.
While the November 19 celebrations will place Monaco's royal family in the spotlight, the gift-giving tradition highlights a quieter side of the occasion.
Through Prince Albert and Princess Charlene's annual gesture and Princess Stéphanie's personal involvement, the family will continue a custom dedicated to the people of the principality.
