As expected, the Monégasque Princely Family took part in the annual National Day celebrations in the small principality. They participated in Mass, the military parade, made an appearance on the balcony of the Prince’s Palace.
The cold morning began with Mass at Saint Nicholas Cathedral with Prince Albert, Princess Charlene, Princess Caroline, Princess Stéphanie and other adult family members in attendance.
Next, the family returned to the Princely Palace for the military parade and balcony appearance. Prince Albert with his wife, Princess Charlene and sisters, Princess Caroline, and Princess Stéphanie stood outside the palace as the parade went by. Their children and grandchildren stood at the windows of the palace to watch, as Prince Albert took the military salute. There was also a song in tribute to World War One – which ended 100 years ago this month.
The entire family next appeared on the balcony with Prince Albert and Princess Charlene’s three-year-old twins, who turn four on 10 December, played with their toys in front of the assembled crowd. There was a slight mishap as Prince Jacques accidentally dropped his action figure into the crowd below. Princess Gabriella was not able to hold on to her toy either as she perfected her royal wave. She also dropped an orange balloon from the balcony. The pair also blew kisses to the crowd.
Andrea Casiraghi, the eldest child of Princess Caroline, held his nephew in his arms at the window of the Palace and melted a few hearts as he gave him a kiss on the forehead.
In the evening, members of the Princely Family attended a gala. Prince Albert was joined by his wife and older sister, Caroline. Princess Caroline was accompanied by her son, Andrea.
The National Day of Monaco, also called The Sovereign Prince’s Day, is held annually on 19 November. The Sovereign Prince selects the day of the celebration, and Prince Albert II’s father, Prince Rainier chose 19 November the day that celebrates St Rainier; his son, decided to keep the holiday on the 19th. Coincidentally, 19 November 2005 was the day Prince Albert was enthroned in Saint Nicholas Cathedral. National Day celebrates Monaco becoming a sovereign nation.