The initiative aims to bring together startups, entrepreneurs, incubators and business professionals, offering an overview of the innovative projects contributing to the development of Monaco’s economic ecosystem. It will provide an opportunity to discover emerging businesses, exchange experiences and explore potential collaborations.

Startup Meeting Monaco: An Opportunity to Discover the Innovation Ecosystem

The evening’s programme will include exhibition spaces dedicated to startups, presentations by local incubators and entrepreneurship clubs, as well as informal networking opportunities. The aim is to create an environment that encourages the exchange of ideas and the development of professional relationships, connecting those working on new projects with people who can help them grow.

More than just a showcase, Startup Meeting Monaco is designed to give participants the opportunity to engage directly with local entrepreneurs, discover innovative initiatives across different sectors and learn more about the opportunities offered by Monaco’s business community.

Networking will be one of the event’s central themes. Bringing together people with different backgrounds and areas of expertise can help foster new partnerships, support business development and encourage the exchange of innovative ideas.

JCI Monaco and FNAC Join Forces to Promote Innovation

The partnership between the Jeune Chambre Économique de Monaco and FNAC Monaco brings entrepreneurship into a public-facing venue, creating an accessible meeting point for anyone interested in the startup world.

The event is open to a broad audience, including entrepreneurs, professionals, students and members of the public interested in innovation. Attendees will be able to discover new projects, meet local business representatives and exchange ideas with members of Monaco’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The participation of startups, incubators and business organisations makes the event an opportunity to gain a closer understanding of the challenges involved in developing new projects and the role professional networks play in helping businesses grow.

Startup Meeting Monaco: Date, Venue and Registration

Startup Meeting Monaco will take place on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, from 6:30 pm, at FNAC Monaco, inside Metropole Shopping Monte-Carlo.

Admission is free, but advance registration is required via the Weezevent platform.

To register, visit the official event page: Startup Meeting Monaco – Registration.

The event offers an opportunity to connect with Monaco’s startup and innovation community, exchange ideas and discover the businesses and organisations contributing to the Principality’s entrepreneurial dynamism.

The festival will bring together farmers, producers, craftspeople and visitors for a day combining rural culture, gastronomy and activities for all ages. The village’s historic centre will become a meeting place for anyone wishing to discover local traditions, meet the people who keep pastoral heritage alive and take part in the many activities on offer.

Admission is free, and all activities are free of charge.

Basket weaving takes centre stage at the 2026 festival

This year’s main new feature is a programme dedicated to basket weaving, a traditional craft involving the weaving of natural plant fibres such as willow. The programme will include a specialist market, hands-on workshops, a conference, a film screening and an exhibition showcasing contemporary creations.

Visitors will have the opportunity to meet professional basket makers, discover traditional weaving techniques and see how an age-old craft continues to evolve through new artistic and practical applications.

The market will bring together craftspeople presenting handmade items, from everyday objects to decorative pieces. Introductory workshops will also give visitors the chance to learn basic weaving techniques and create their own object.

One of the highlights will be the conference Les origines d’un savoir-faire qui tresse du lien, exploring the origins, history and uses of basket weaving. It will feature Hervé Brisot, a basket maker with more than 45 years of experience, who will share his knowledge of this traditional craft.

“Un Brin d’Espoir”: a project combining art and tradition

The basket-weaving programme will also feature Un Brin d’Espoir, a project bringing together visual storytelling, craftsmanship and contemporary creativity.

The initiative includes a short film made with hand-drawn illustrations, a workshop and an exhibition featuring eight works by contemporary basket makers. Its aim is to highlight the evolution of a traditional craft that continues to thrive through the expertise of artisans and the exploration of new forms of expression.

Traditional sheep and goat parade at 3 pm

One of the day’s main attractions will be the traditional pastoral parade through the historic streets, scheduled for 3 pm. This year’s edition will feature animals belonging to farmers Maurice Authier, from Puget-Théniers, and Michel Pelestor, from Valensole.

The two farmers’ combined flock numbers approximately 1,300 animals, including crossbred sheep also known as Merinos d’Arles. This type of sheep originated from crosses between local sheep from the Crau area and Merino rams brought from Spain.

The parade will offer visitors an opportunity to discover the work of local farmers and understand the continuing importance of pastoral farming to rural communities in the region.

The Brigasque sheep: the symbol of the festival

The star of the event remains the Brebis Brigasque, the traditional sheep breed of the Roya Valley after which the festival is named. Throughout the day, visitors will be able to see a flock belonging to farmer Barthélemy Lanteri near La Brigue Castle.

Protecting this breed is the original purpose of the festival, which was created to raise awareness of the risk of the Brigasque sheep disappearing and to support the farmers who continue to breed it.

The animals are therefore more than just an attraction: they offer an opportunity to understand the importance of local breeds and their connection to the landscape and cultural identity of the valley.

Local produce, music and activities for the whole family

Alongside the pastoral and basket-weaving events, the Fête de la Brebis Brigasque will feature a market showcasing local producers and craftspeople.

Visitors will be able to discover regional specialities, including sheep’s cheese and honey, which reflect the area’s gastronomic traditions. The programme will also include music, botanical walks, workshops, exhibitions and activities for children.

There will also be a dedicated area for local associations, as well as several food and refreshment options for those wishing to spend the entire day in La Brigue.

The festival is designed for a wide audience, from enthusiasts of rural traditions and traditional crafts to families looking for an autumn outing combining culture, nature and gastronomy.

A festival created to save the Brigasque sheep

The Fête de la Brebis Brigasque was first held in 2009, when the local sheep breed was threatened with extinction. The festival was established to help protect the breed, promote the work of local farmers and preserve a tradition deeply rooted in the Roya Valley.

Over the years, the event has become a regular fixture on the local autumn calendar, bringing the community together and attracting visitors interested in pastoral culture and the region’s traditional crafts.

Today, the festival welcomes approximately 5,000 visitors and provides an opportunity to pass on traditional knowledge and skills to younger generations.

Fête de la Brebis Brigasque: practical information

The 16th edition of the Fête de la Brebis Brigasque will take place on Sunday, 18 October 2026, in La Brigue, in the Roya Valley.

• Date: Sunday, 18 October 2026
• Location: La Brigue, France
• Admission: Free
• Activities: Free of charge
• Main event: Pastoral parade at 3 pm
• Programme: Local producers’ and crafts market, basket-weaving workshops, conference, exhibition, music, botanical walks and children’s activities

A day dedicated to discovering the traditions of the Roya Valley, supporting local farmers and celebrating a cultural heritage that continues to connect nature, craftsmanship and local identity.

The programme offers a fun and engaging way to celebrate Halloween, with fancy dress strongly encouraged to help everyone get into the spirit of the occasion. All activities are free of charge.

Halloween in Beausoleil: the event programme

The Village Charlot Halloween programme will run over four days, with activities focused on preparing for the celebration, playing games and socialising.

28 October: Halloween costume and accessory swap

The festivities will begin on 28 October with a Halloween costume and accessory swap. Participants will have the opportunity to give their pre-loved outfits a new lease of life and find ideas for their own costumes without necessarily having to buy anything new.

It is a chance to prepare for Halloween in a creative and affordable way while encouraging reuse and sharing.

30 October: Halloween-themed Lupus in Fabula and creative workshop

On 30 October, Village Charlot will host a special Halloween edition of Lupus in Fabula, a group game set, for the occasion, in a cursed village inhabited by mysterious werewolves.

Participants will have to work out who is hiding behind the supernatural creatures, following clues, questioning suspects and navigating unexpected twists. The activity is aimed at children and teenagers and will be accompanied by a creative workshop scheduled from 2 pm to 4 pm.

The afternoon is designed to encourage imagination, participation and teamwork through an activity inspired by the mysterious atmosphere of Halloween.

31 October: Halloween party at the youth centre

The programme will conclude on 31 October with a big Halloween party at Beausoleil’s youth centre.

The final event will feature entertainment, fancy dress and a spooky atmosphere, giving everyone the chance to celebrate the most mysterious night of the year together. Children and teenagers are encouraged to wear their favourite costumes and enjoy the festivities with other participants.

Free Halloween events in Beausoleil: information and contact details

All activities organised for Halloween at Village Charlot are free of charge. The programme offers families an opportunity to discover events for children and teenagers in Beausoleil during the autumn holidays.

For further information about the programme and participation arrangements, contact Village Charlot directly:

• Email: villagecharlot.mediatheque@villedebeausoleil.fr
• Telephone: +33 4 83 32 85 32

From 28 to 31 October, Beausoleil will celebrate Halloween with games, creativity and entertainment, offering young visitors four days of free activities filled with imagination and spooky fun.

Celebrate Halloween by exploring the mysteries of prehistory! On Saturday, October 31, 2026, the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology in Monaco is hosting a special event for children aged 5 and over.

The programme combines creative workshops, guided tours through dimly lit museum galleries and a fun candy hunt. It offers young visitors an engaging way to discover the museum’s collections while enjoying the mysterious atmosphere of Halloween.

Two sessions are available, organised according to age group: a morning session for children aged 5 to 7 and an afternoon session for children aged 8 and over.

Halloween Activities for Children Aged 5 to 7

The morning session runs from 10:30 am to 12 noon and combines creativity, exploration and fun.

From 10:30 to 11 am, children will take part in a creative workshop, decorating pumpkins with funny, mysterious or spooky faces. The activity will be organised in small groups to encourage participation and creativity.

Between 11 and 11:10 am, the pumpkins will be illuminated with small LED lights, transforming them into glowing lanterns for the next part of the adventure.

From 11:10 to 11:45 am, children will explore the museum’s collections in the dim light, guided by their glowing pumpkins. They will discover fascinating exhibits, including a mammoth, a cave bear and a moose. The tour will also feature chimpanzee and human skeletons, African masks, unusual objects and a shaman’s costume.

The morning will conclude with a candy hunt from 11:45 am to noon, giving children a playful end to their museum experience.

After-Dark Tours and Glowing Pumpkins for Children Aged 8 and Over

In the afternoon, the museum will offer a second session from 1:30 pm to 3 pm, designed for children aged 8 and over.

The programme begins with a creative workshop from 1:30 to 2 pm. Children will decorate pumpkins with eerie faces, imaginative creatures and original designs.

Between 2 and 2:10 pm, the pumpkins will be illuminated with LED lights, ready to accompany the young explorers on their journey through the museum.

The dimly lit tour, scheduled from 2:10 to 2:45 pm, will offer a different perspective on the museum’s collections. Children will discover the mammoth, cave bear, moose, various skeletons, African masks and a shaman’s costume.

From 2:45 to 3 pm, a candy hunt will bring the afternoon session to a sweet conclusion.

How to Attend the Halloween Event in Monaco

The activities organised by the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology are free of charge, but advance booking is compulsory. Places are limited, so families are advised to contact the museum in advance to check availability and reserve a place for their children.

Event information:

• Event: Halloween at the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology
• Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
• Age: Children aged 5 and over
• Children aged 5–7: 10:30 am–12 noon
• Children aged 8 and over: 1:30–3 pm
• Price: Free
• Booking: Compulsory, subject to availability
• Address: 56 bis, boulevard du Jardin Exotique, Monaco
• Email: map@gouv.mc
• Telephone: +377 98 98 80 06

A Different Kind of Halloween in the Principality of Monaco

The October 31 event offers an original alternative to traditional Halloween celebrations. Children can decorate pumpkins, explore the museum’s collections in an unusual setting and take part in a candy hunt.

By combining creativity, play and educational discovery, the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology turns Halloween into an entertaining opportunity for young visitors to learn about the past.

For families looking for things to do in Monaco, this free event is worth adding to the calendar. Advance booking is essential, as places are limited.

The event promises a week of strategy, concentration and competition in one of the French Riviera’s best-known destinations.

Three Tournaments Based on Elo Ratings

The Menton International Chess Open features three categories, designated A, B and C, based on the Elo rating system used to assess players’ playing strength.

Tournament A is intended for players rated 1900 or above, while Tournament B is aimed at players with ratings between 1600 and 1999. Tournament C is reserved for players rated below 1700.

As the published rating ranges overlap between categories, players are advised to consult the official regulations to confirm the eligibility criteria for each tournament.

Menton International Chess Open 2026: Full Schedule

The event will begin on Sunday, October 18, with player registration scheduled from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm. The opening ceremony will take place at 2:15 pm, followed by the first round at 2:30 pm.

The competition will continue over eight days, alternating between days with one round and a day featuring two rounds.

The full schedule is as follows:

• Sunday, October 18: Registration from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm, opening ceremony at 2:15 pm and first round at 2:30 pm.
• Monday, October 19: Second round at 2:30 pm.
• Tuesday, October 20: Third round at 9 am and fourth round at 3:30 pm.
• Wednesday, October 21: Fifth round at 2:30 pm.
• Thursday, October 22: Sixth round at 2:30 pm.
• Friday, October 23: Seventh round at 2:30 pm.
• Saturday, October 24: Eighth round at 2:30 pm.
• Sunday, October 25: Ninth and final round at 10 am, followed by the awards ceremony at 4:30 pm.

The closing day will also include a lottery draw and a final toast, bringing participants together to celebrate the conclusion of the 2026 edition.

A Week of Chess on the French Riviera

With nine rounds and three separate tournaments, the Menton International Chess Open offers a format designed to accommodate players with different levels of experience. The competition provides an opportunity to test skills, gain experience and share a passion for chess with fellow players.

The Palais de l’Europe will serve as the main venue throughout the event, from the opening round on October 18 to the awards ceremony on October 25.

Information and Registration

For details on participation, registration procedures and Elo rating requirements, interested players can consult the official Échiquier Mentonnais website, which provides information about the 23rd edition of the Menton International Chess Open.

During the evening, the winners of the literary and musical awards will be announced, alongside the Principality Prize, highlighting the Foundation’s commitment to supporting creativity and promoting artistic achievement.

The 2026 Fondation Prince Pierre Literary Awards

In the literary category, three distinctions will be presented: the Literary Prize, the Discovery Grant and the High School Students’ Favourite Prize.

These awards recognise the value of literary work and encourage younger generations to engage with reading and culture. The announcement of the winners will be one of the highlights of the evening, which is anticipated by Monaco’s cultural community.

Awards Celebrating Musical Talent

Music will also feature prominently, with the announcement of the winners of the Musical Launch Prize and the Young Music Lovers’ Favourite Prize.

Through these distinctions, the Fondation Prince Pierre supports musical talent and fosters a stronger connection between younger generations and the world of music, combining artistic recognition with a commitment to engaging young audiences.

The ceremony will also reveal the recipient of the Principality Prize, jointly awarded by the Rencontres Philosophiques and the Fondation Prince Pierre de Monaco.

The Fondation Prince Pierre’s Role in Monaco’s Cultural Life

Every year, H.S.H. Prince Albert II presents one or more awards based on recommendations from the Foundation’s three councils: the Literary Council, the Music Council and the Arts Council.

The awards follow different schedules depending on their category. Literary prizes are presented annually, while the Musical Composition Prize is awarded every three years. The International Contemporary Art Prize has also traditionally been awarded on a three-year cycle, although its frequency is currently being reviewed.

The October 13 ceremony is therefore an important event in Monaco’s cultural calendar, bringing together literature, music and the arts.

Practical Information: How to Attend the Ceremony

The 2026 Fondation Prince Pierre Awards Ceremony will take place on Tuesday, October 13, at 8 pm, in the Salle Garnier at the Opéra de Monte-Carlo.

Admission is free, but reservations are recommended. To request a reservation or obtain further information, contact the Foundation by phone at +377 98 98 85 15 or by email at info@fondationprincepierre.mc.

The event will offer the public the opportunity to discover the 2026 award winners and celebrate the Fondation Prince Pierre’s contribution to culture and creativity in the Principality of Monaco.

The 2026 edition will feature a total of 73 installations, with activities designed for all ages, from young children to thrill-seekers looking for more exhilarating experiences. The funfair will remain open throughout the autumn season, leading up to Monaco’s National Day on 19 November, and continuing its tradition as one of the Principality’s most popular seasonal events.

Monaco Luna Park: A New Layout for the 2026 Edition

This year, the arrangement of attractions along Quai Albert Ier will undergo some changes. The revised layout is necessary to accommodate works planned at the South Darse area ahead of the Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix.

Despite these logistical adjustments, Monaco City Hall has confirmed that the funfair will continue to offer a wide variety of attractions, including rides for children, thrilling experiences, skill games and food outlets. Luna Park will retain its role as a popular meeting place and entertainment destination, attracting families and visitors to the heart of the harbour.

Monaco Luna Park 2026: Opening Hours

The funfair will be open every day from 16 October to 19 November, with opening times varying according to the attractions.

• From 11 am: Food stalls and rides for younger children open.
• From 2 pm: All other attractions open.
• Until 11 pm: Standard closing time.
• Until midnight: Extended opening hours on Fridays, Saturdays and the evenings before public holidays.
• Until 1 am: Special extended hours on Wednesday, 18 November, the eve of Monaco’s National Day.

The extended evening hours will allow visitors to enjoy the funfair after dark, when the illuminated rides create the distinctive atmosphere that makes Luna Park a seasonal favourite.

Rides, Games and Food for the Whole Family

With 73 installations, Monaco Luna Park will offer entertainment to suit a wide range of tastes and ages. Younger visitors can enjoy rides designed especially for children, while older guests can experience adrenaline-fuelled attractions and test their skills at the various games.

Food stalls will complete the experience, providing a welcome break between rides and activities. More than just an amusement park, Luna Park is a traditional social gathering that brings the community together as Monaco prepares for its November national celebrations.

Safety and Access: What Visitors Need to Know

A dedicated security system will be in place throughout the 2026 edition. Eight controlled entrances will operate, with bag checks carried out at the access points.

For safety reasons, entry may be temporarily suspended if the maximum permitted capacity is reached. Visitors are therefore advised to plan their visit accordingly, particularly on busier days and during peak hours.

Monaco City Hall also recommends checking the official website, www.mairie.mc, before travelling to the funfair. Visitors can consult real-time attendance information to help plan their visit.

Monaco Luna Park 2026: An Autumn Attraction Not to Be Missed

From 16 October to 19 November, Luna Park will bring the atmosphere of a traditional fairground back to Port Hercule, with colourful lights, rides, games and food stalls. The event combines entertainment and tradition, welcoming residents and tourists to the heart of the Principality.

The funfair will remain a popular destination throughout the autumn, culminating on Monaco’s National Day on 19 November. Whether visiting with family or friends, guests will have more than a month to enjoy the attractions and festive atmosphere.

For the latest information on access and visitor numbers, checking Monaco City Hall’s official website before setting off is recommended.

Organised by the Chambre Monégasque de la Mode, the event marks a strategic evolution of Monte-Carlo Fashion Week, introducing a second annual event focused on the autumn-winter season, alongside the spring edition scheduled for 12–16 April 2027.

“Six months ahead of the next edition of Monte-Carlo Fashion Week, we have decided to launch an autumn-winter edition with the aim of creating a second event every year,” said Federica Nardoni Spinetta, President and Founder of the Chambre Monégasque de la Mode. The initiative reflects the organisation’s commitment to promoting talent and creative visions capable of making a positive impact on the fashion industry as a whole, combining aesthetics, innovation and ethical values.

Di Iorio Monaco and Xerjoff kick off MCFW Rendez-Vous 2026

The programme begins on Wednesday, 14 October, at 3 pm at the Fairmont Monte-Carlo, with Di Iorio Monaco, a young Monegasque brand specialising in exceptional footwear. The event will celebrate the opening of the brand’s first boutique and offer guests the opportunity to meet its founders, sisters Samantha and Alicia, and discover the creative vision behind the label.

The day will continue with an immersive experience in the world of luxury fragrances by Xerjoff. The Italian perfume house will present an olfactory workshop designed to explore fragrances and their sensory dimensions. This event expands the dialogue between fashion, craftsmanship and lifestyle, highlighting the importance of research, creativity and immersive experiences.

Fashion and culture: Thierry Leviez presents Théâtres de la Mode

On Thursday, 15 October, from 11 am, the Pavillon Bosio, Monaco’s École Supérieure d’Arts Plastiques, will host a morning of conferences organised in collaboration with Monaco City Hall. The sessions will be moderated by Léa Calori, Administrator at the Princely Government’s Directorate of Communications.

One of the highlights will be a Face to Face conversation with Thierry Leviez, Director of Pavillon Bosio, who will exclusively present his book Théâtres de la Mode. The publication explores the evolution of fashion scenography from the 19th century to the present day, examining the relationship between clothing, exhibition spaces and visual storytelling.

Following the conference, the book will be available for purchase. The initiative also aims to support the projects of the École Supérieure d’Arts Plastiques, including educational activities and study trips for students.

The programme will then turn to the challenges facing the fashion industry, with a conference dedicated to responsible innovation and creativity, global inclusion and the future of fashion.

The international guest speaker will be Runa Ray, an American environmental fashion designer and expert in sustainability and the circular economy who works with the United Nations and the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation.

Her contribution will provide an opportunity to explore strategies for making the fashion supply chain more sustainable through innovative production models, more efficient resource management and greater attention to environmental and social impact.

Sustainability is therefore a central theme of the event, moving beyond a sector trend to become an essential consideration in product design, manufacturing and fashion communication.

Valtoria opens its showroom and atelier for an exclusive design experience

On Friday, 16 October, Valtoria, a Monegasque fashion brand, will open its showroom and atelier to welcome guests and fashion enthusiasts.

The event will offer visitors the opportunity to meet designer Gabriela Tarkanyi Maldonado, learn more about the brand’s creative process and discuss its design vision in an informal setting, accompanied by an exclusive brunch.

The initiative highlights the relationship between designers and their audience, showcasing the creative work behind each collection and the role of ateliers as spaces for research, experimentation and identity.

Falconeri and TheRe bring fashion and accessories to Fairmont Monte-Carlo

Alongside the main programme, on Thursday, 15 October, and Friday, 16 October, the Italian brand Falconeri will open its doors to the public to present its collections alongside accessories by TheRe.

The presentation will take place in a pop-up boutique at Fairmont Monte-Carlo, designed by Vera Facchetti Lifestyle, which will oversee the space and the visitor experience.

The event will conclude with an exclusive cocktail reception, bringing the programme to a close and creating an opportunity for fashion industry professionals, guests and lifestyle enthusiasts to connect.

The presence of international fashion houses alongside emerging Monegasque brands reinforces the event’s cross-disciplinary character, encouraging dialogue between different creative identities and design approaches.

Monte-Carlo Fashion Week: a growing international platform for contemporary fashion

With MCFW Rendez-Vous 2026, Monte-Carlo strengthens its position as an international platform for contemporary fashion, offering a format that goes beyond traditional runway shows to embrace culture, perfumery, design, craftsmanship and discussion around sustainability.

The introduction of an autumn edition marks an important step towards expanding the event’s annual calendar and creating new opportunities for emerging talent and established brands. At its heart is a vision of fashion that combines tradition and innovation, creative excellence and responsibility in the unique international setting of the Principality of Monaco.

From 14 to 16 October, MCFW Rendez-Vous will provide a meeting point for industry professionals and fashion enthusiasts, encouraging reflection on the future of the fashion system, where aesthetic research goes hand in hand with ethical commitment and sustainability becomes an integral part of the creative process.

The next spring edition of Monte-Carlo Fashion Week is scheduled for 12–16 April 2027, confirming the ambition to establish an increasingly prominent event on the international fashion calendar.

Created in 1996, this interpretation of Shakespeare’s masterpiece has become one of the most significant works in the Ballets de Monte-Carlo repertoire. With more than 400 performances to its name, the ballet has captivated international audiences through its original choreographic vision, which combines classical tradition with a modern physical and narrative language.

Jean-Christophe Maillot Reimagines Shakespeare’s Tragedy

The strength of Roméo et Juliette lies in Jean-Christophe Maillot’s ability to move beyond the traditional portrayal of the love story between the two young Veronese lovers. While Romeo and Juliet remain at the heart of the narrative, the choreographer approaches the tragedy from a different perspective, giving Friar Laurence a central role in the dramatic development.

The friar, burdened by remorse and the weight of his decisions, becomes the emotional centre of the story. Through his memories and his anguish over the events that led to the protagonists’ deaths, the narrative takes on a more introspective dimension. The feud between the Montagues and Capulets gives way to a reflection on the consequences of human actions, the good intentions that can lead to tragedy and the weight of individual responsibility.

This perspective gives the ballet a distinctive depth, transforming a universally known story into an intense and nuanced theatrical experience.

Contemporary Dance, Prokofiev’s Music and Minimalist Scenography

Maillot’s interpretation also stands out for its distinctive movement vocabulary. The precision of classical ballet technique blends with fluid, dynamic and sensual gestures, allowing the dancers’ bodies to express emotions, inner conflicts and dramatic tension.

The choreography is enhanced by Sergei Prokofiev’s celebrated score, whose powerful musical atmosphere follows the characters’ journeys and intensifies the contrast between romantic passion and tragic destiny. The set design by Ernest Pignon-Ernest, characterised by a minimalist visual approach, completes the production without distracting from the dancers’ expressive power.

The result is a compelling balance of music, movement and imagery that makes this production instantly recognisable on the international dance scene. Thirty years after its creation, the ballet continues to demonstrate how contemporary artistic perspectives can breathe new life into the great classics.

Thirty Years of Success for Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo

The return of Roméo et Juliette is an opportunity to celebrate not only the longevity of a production but also the artistic journey of Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo. Maillot’s creation has helped strengthen the company’s international profile, establishing its reputation for a choreographic language that engages with tradition while exploring new forms of expression.

More than 400 performances demonstrate the production’s ability to connect with different generations and audiences while retaining its emotional impact. The story of Romeo and Juliet, with its universal themes of love, conflict, loss and regret, continues to offer fresh opportunities for interpretation.

The 30th-anniversary celebrations therefore represent a major event for ballet enthusiasts and for anyone wishing to rediscover one of the most significant works in Monaco’s dance repertoire.

Romeo and Juliet in Monte-Carlo: Performance Dates and Times

Performances will take place at the Salle Garnier of the Opéra de Monte-Carlo from 20 October to 1 November 2026.

The performances on 20, 30 and 31 October will begin at 7:30 pm, while the performance on 1 November is scheduled for 3:00 pm.

The ballet lasts 2 hours and 15 minutes, including the interval.

The return of Roméo et Juliette gives audiences the opportunity to rediscover a production that has shaped the history of Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo and celebrate the talent of Jean-Christophe Maillot, whose interpretation of Shakespeare’s tragedy remains one of the most distinctive in contemporary dance.

From Nice and Menton to Villefranche-sur-Mer, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and Cagnes-sur-Mer, and further inland towards Sospel, Saorge, Tende, La Brigue, Roquebillière and Valdeblore, visitors can enjoy a weekend combining Mediterranean atmosphere with the landscapes and traditions of the Alpes-Maritimes.

Saturday, October 10: music, nature and local traditions

The weekend gets underway in Roquebillière, where the Foire du Village takes place throughout the day. The traditional village fair brings together artisans, local producers and associations around Place de la Mairie and Place Corniglion Molinier. It is an excellent opportunity to discover local crafts and products while experiencing the atmosphere of this mountain village in the Vésubie valley. Admission is free.

Sports enthusiasts can also head to Roquebillière for the badminton tournament, beginning at 9:30 am at the Gymnase Jean Salines. Organised by FC Vésubie, the event includes singles matches in the morning and doubles in the afternoon. Admission is free.

In Breil-sur-Roya, from 10 am to 4 pm, the Journée Cocoon offers a very different experience. Held at the Passerelle – Bien-être en Roya association on Promenade Georges Clémenceau, the event is dedicated to relaxation and wellbeing, with individual treatments, wellness activities and a shared lunch. Participation costs €60 for members and €65 for non-members.

At 1 pm, Breil-sur-Roya also hosts the World Pickleball Day at the Gymnase Gilbert Mary, running until 4 pm. The event is part of the wider Pink October programme and offers visitors the chance to discover pickleball, a paddle sport combining elements of tennis, badminton, padel and table tennis. Participation is free.

Families with very young children can head to Beausoleil at 10:30 am for L’Instant Poupon, premiers livres, premiers jeux, at Village Charlot, 42 avenue du Maréchal Foch. From 10:30 to 11 am, stories, nursery rhymes and games are designed especially for toddlers. The event is free.

In La Brigue, from 10 am to 8 pm, the Fête des semences celebrates seeds, biodiversity and traditional agriculture. Organised by the Maison des Semences Paysannes Maralpines and the Casa delle Semenze delle Alpi Marittime, the event explores the importance of seeds across the French-Italian border. It takes place in the Cianesse district, at La Poudrière, and admission is free.

Nature lovers should head to Valdeblore, where the International Bearded Vulture Day takes place from 10 am to 3 pm at Col de Veillos, Millefonts, La Bolline. Organised with the Parc national du Mercantour, the event focuses on one of the Alps’ most emblematic birds of prey. Visitors can learn more about the species and its conservation while taking part in an observation outing. Participation is free, subject to weather conditions.

At 3 pm, the Musée départemental des Merveilles in Tende hosts the lecture “Quel genre pour les statues-stèles ?”, devoted to the mysterious statue-stelae of the region. The lecture takes place on avenue du 16 Septembre 1947 and admission is free, subject to available seating.

Cinema fans can make their way to Fontan, where the Médiathèque, Chemin du Vallon du Conseil, screens Tombé du ciel at 2 pm. Mohamed Hamidi’s family comedy follows Ilyes, a young man from Roubaix whose life takes an unexpected turn after failing his baccalauréat examination twice. The screening lasts approximately 90 minutes.

In Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, the Semaines d’information sur la santé mentale take place from 2 to 5 pm on the Esplanade Jean-Gioan. The event explores the relationship between mental health, art and creative expression, with activities including art therapy, drawing, yoga, dance, music, ceramics and games. Admission is free and the programme is suitable for both adults and children.

At 8 pm, music takes centre stage at the Église Saint Jean-Baptiste in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, with the concert “L’anima romantica da Chopin a Puccini. Notti, sogni e passioni…”. The programme explores Romantic and early 20th-century music, bringing together piano repertoire and opera. Soprano Christina Collier performs with pianist Thomas Dupont-Costantini, with the participation of Valentina Silo Mocko and Malo Malfoy. A collection will support the church.

In Levens, the Auditorium Joseph Raybaud hosts Brigitte Blondeau’s concert at 8:30 pm. The programme combines classical music and French chanson, with works by Marin Marais, Vivaldi, Bach, Debussy and Fauré alongside songs by Anne Sylvestre, Brel, Nougaro and Jonasz. The concert is scheduled to finish at 10 pm.

At 8 pm, Vence offers another musical highlight with the Cicadas concert at the Médiathèque Elise et Célestin Freinet. This contemporary folk trio, connected to the South of France and Brussels, combines guitar, harp, bass and three voices, drawing on folk, pop, jazz and ambient music. Admission is free.

At 8:30 pm, the Théâtre de l’Avant-Scène in Vence presents Mobil-homme, a comedy by Nora Lomelet starring Delphine Bollaro and Bénédicte Leturcq. Two very different women find themselves trapped together in a mobile home after their respective partners arrange an unexpected meeting. The play returns on Sunday at 4 pm, with tickets starting from €15 for adults.

Literature and crime fiction take centre stage in Saint-Laurent-du-Var, where the Festival du Polar 2026 begins its two-day programme. Held at the Salle Louis Deboulle, 1 avenue Pierre de Coubertin, from 10 am to 6 pm on both Saturday and Sunday, the festival brings together around thirty authors and includes meetings, book signings, investigative games, a murder mystery and crime-scene reconstructions. Admission is free.

At Villefranche-sur-Mer, the first day of the 35th edition of La Resquilhada celebrates traditional Mediterranean boats. From 1 to 5 pm, visitors can admire around fifty vessels in the bay, including pointus, sailing boats, rowing boats, traditional yachts and old sailing craft. The event takes place around Port Royal de La Darse, Quai de la Corderie, and admission is free. The gathering continues on Sunday morning.

In Cagnes-sur-Mer, from 6 pm, the Cours du 11 Novembre hosts Cagnes sous pression, the city’s first beer festival. The street becomes pedestrian-only, while local restaurants extend their terraces alongside beer trucks, food trucks, live music and DJ sets.

The evening can end in Saorge, where Parkaj en concert begins at 7:30 pm at Heinz Café, 1 place Georges Clémenceau. Franck and Nilos will perform in an intimate and friendly setting.

Saorge also offers one of the weekend’s most atmospheric events: Jour de la Nuit – Rallumons les étoiles !. Beginning at 7 pm at the Salle des fêtes, the evening includes a presentation of the Alpes Azur Mercantour International Dark Sky Reserve, a night-time walk through the village and a stargazing session with an astronomer. A complimentary soup will be served by the La Sauce association. The event is free; warm clothing and a headlamp with a red light are recommended.

Sunday, October 11: nature, sport and autumn flavours

Sunday continues with a wide selection of events.

In Sospel, the World Pickleball Day takes place from 9 am to 1 pm at Place des Platanes. The free event is an opportunity to discover pickleball in a relaxed outdoor setting.

Sospel is also home to the Fête des métiers et de la châtaigne, from 10 am to 4 pm. One of the most characteristic autumn celebrations in the region, it brings together artisans, producers, artists and local businesses. Chestnuts are the gastronomic star of the day, accompanied by mulled wine, music and entertainment. Admission is free.

At Èze, from 10 am to 5 pm, the Fort de la Revère hosts a bird migration camp organised by the LPO Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. Visitors can observe migratory species and take part in activities explaining bird migration. Admission is free.

In Roquebillière, from 9 am to 4 pm, Place Général Corniglion Molinier hosts the Rassemblement auto moto de la Vésubie, a gathering of cars and motorcycles ranging from classic and vintage vehicles to sports cars, American cars, custom bikes and youngtimers. Admission is free.

At Valdeblore, the first intergenerational pétanque meeting begins at 1 pm at the Clôt de boules in Saint-Dalmas, with matches starting at 2 pm. Teams must include two adults and one child. Registration is free and takes place on site. A shared snack is also planned.

Music returns to Saint-Martin-Vésubie at 3 pm, with a concert paying tribute to Charles Aznavour at Espace Jean Grinda, Place de la Gare routière. Tony Zammitto and a group of musicians will perform a selection of Aznavour’s best-known songs. The concert lasts approximately 90 minutes and admission is free.

At 3 pm, the Musée départemental des Merveilles in Tende presents “Mauvais-genre ?”, a storytelling performance with music by the Compagnie de la Hulotte. Narrator Milao and violinist Sofia explore stories of heroines who challenge traditional stereotypes. The performance lasts around one hour, is suitable for all ages and is free, although booking is recommended.

Families can head to Cagnes-sur-Mer for Storie da leggere – Festival per ragazzi, held throughout the day at Parc des Canebiers. This year’s theme is paper, explored through books, poetry, games and creative activities. Workshops, shows and entertainment are planned throughout the day, with free admission.

In Cap-d’Ail, from 10 am to 5 pm, the Giornata agri-culturale “Donne contadine, donne artiste” at Jardin des Sauvages brings agriculture, culture, literature, music and sound art together. The programme includes a medicinal-plant garden visit and a conference in the morning, followed by a meeting with writer Laure de Chantal, a sound performance by Nadine Schütz and a concert by France de Griessen. Admission is free, with voluntary contributions supporting the artists.

Meanwhile, La Resquilhada continues in Villefranche-sur-Mer on Sunday morning. From 8 to 11 am, the traditional boats return to the bay after their outing at sea, offering a particularly picturesque sight against the backdrop of Villefranche-sur-Mer.

Finally, Vence closes the weekend on a musical note with Concert Syrinx at 6:30 pm. The programme features John Rutter’s Requiem and Gloria, performed by the Vocalliances vocal ensemble under the direction of Christian Ciuca, with Vanessa Fouillet as soprano and Stéphane Eliot on organ.

A different side of the French Riviera in October

The weekend of October 10–11, 2026 offers a fascinating way to experience the French Riviera beyond the traditional summer season. Along the coast, Villefranche-sur-Mer, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Cagnes-sur-Mer, Cap-d’Ail and Saint-Laurent-du-Var offer concerts, festivals and events connected with the sea and local culture.

Further inland, Saorge, Breil-sur-Roya, Sospel, Tende, La Brigue, Roquebillière and Valdeblore provide an opportunity to discover mountain traditions, nature, local food, sport and heritage.

For anyone wondering what to do on the French Riviera on October 10 and 11, 2026, this weekend offers an impressive choice. Visitors can combine the Mediterranean coast with the mountains, traditional festivals with contemporary music, family activities with outdoor adventures, and local gastronomy with culture.

October is therefore an ideal time to discover a quieter, more authentic and surprisingly lively side of the French Riviera.