Everything to Know About Bal de la Rose: Monaco's Most Glamorous Springtime Soirée
The Rose Ball, or Bal de la Rose, is more than just a glamorous social event in Monaco—it’s a grand celebration of luxury, culture, and charity that honors the legacy of Princess Grace of Monaco. Since its inception in 1954, the Rose Ball has been a prelude to the principality’s official party season, and over the decades, it has become an iconic springtime soirée that blends philanthropy with extravagance.
Founded by Princess Grace with the intention of raising funds for the Princess Grace Foundation, which supports humanitarian projects and cultural initiatives, the event has remained a significant fundraiser. Notably, in 1964, Princess Grace ensured that all proceeds from the ball would directly benefit the foundation, aligning with her lifelong commitment to supporting the arts and people in need.
Held annually in March at the prestigious Salle des Étoiles at the Sporting Monte-Carlo, the Rose Ball brings together Monaco’s elite—royalty, celebrities, and high-profile political figures—all to celebrate beauty, art, and charity.
Here’s everything you need to know about this dazzling night that combines opulence with a cause.
1. A Night of Glamour and Grace
The Rose Ball is the epitome of high fashion and timeless elegance. Inspired by Princess Grace’s own sense of style, the event has always attracted top-tier designers, celebrities, and fashion icons. The dress code is a tribute to haute couture, with women often donning stunning ball gowns adorned with roses, Princess Grace’s favorite flower, while men arrive in black-tie attire. Over the years, Christian Louboutin has taken on the role of Creative Director, ensuring that fashion remains a central theme at the event. Louboutin’s vision is to create a breathtaking atmosphere—one that marries elegance with spectacle, as seen in his 2023 Bollywood-inspired transformation of the venue.
2. A Who’s Who of Global Aristocracy
Since the beginning, the Rose Ball has attracted a who's who of the international elite. Whether it’s royalty, fashion moguls, or Hollywood legends, the guest list has always been a highlight. Past attendees have included the likes of Hubert de Givenchy, Sophia Loren, Ava Gardner, Cary Grant, as well as Karl Lagerfeld who previously held the role of Artistic Director prior to Christian Louboutin.
In recent years, the event has maintained its exclusive guest list, drawing influential individuals from the worlds of art, fashion, business, and politics. The mingling of such high-profile figures creates a dynamic and exciting atmosphere, making the Rose Ball one of the most coveted invitations on the social calendar.
3. A Tribute to Art and Beauty
A defining feature of The Rose Ball is its ever-evolving theme, each year drawing inspiration from art, culture, or beauty. Past themes have ranged from nature-inspired floral designs to surrealist dreamscapes and glamorous tributes to iconic cultural movements.
Previous years have featured themes such as Cuban Fever, New York, Viennese Romanticism, and Disco, each contributing to the visual magnificence of the evening. This year, the theme is The Sunset Ball, and we eagerly anticipate how it will be brought to life through fashion and décor.
4. A Picture-Perfect Setting at the Salle des Étoiles
The Rose Ball takes place at the Salle des Étoiles, an awe-inspiring venue renowned for its opulence and panoramic views of the Mediterranean. Designed to host high-profile events, this stunning ballroom boasts crystal chandeliers and a removable roof that allows guests to dance under the stars when the weather permits.
Each year, the venue is transformed to reflect the ball’s theme. Whether it’s filled with thousands of roses in every color or adorned with an elaborate set inspired by an entirely different era, the ambiance is always breathtaking.
5. A Night of Charity and Celebration
At its core, the Rose Ball is a charity event. The proceeds support the Princess Grace Foundation, which continues the late princess’s mission of helping those in need. Since 1964, all proceeds from the event have been directed towards humanitarian projects and the development of the arts. This commitment to philanthropy remains central to the event's mission, making it not just a glamorous gathering but an opportunity for guests to contribute to meaningful causes.
In keeping with Princess Grace’s legacy, the evening is also a celebration of the arts, with performances and entertainment that change each year to reflect the ball’s theme. The night is as much about giving back as it is about indulging in the luxurious experience of Monaco’s elite social scene.
6. A Family Affair
After Princess Grace’s passing, her children—Princess Caroline and Prince Albert II—took on the responsibility of continuing the Rose Ball, ensuring it remains a vital fundraiser for the Princess Grace Foundation. The family’s involvement in hosting the event has allowed the ball to evolve, maintaining its elegance while introducing new elements to attract future generations of attendees. Today, the Rose Ball continues to be one of the most prestigious charity galas in the world, staying true to its founder's vision of blending beauty, glamour, and philanthropy.
For the latest updates, photos, and behind-the-scenes moments from this year’s Rose Ball, be sure to follow @GraceInfluential and @GracedeMonaco on social media.
