MONACO, 16 December 2017 — Lady Monika Bacardi attended the prestigious Christmas Ball at the legendary Salle Belle Époque of the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo. The distinguished evening brought together prominent figures from Monaco society to celebrate the holiday season while raising vital support for the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation’s water safety and drowning prevention programs.
Held under the High Patronage of H.S.H. Princess Charlene of Monaco, the twelfth edition of this celebrated charity event transformed the magnificent Belle Époque hall into an elegant jungle-themed celebration titled “Welcome to the Jungle.” The evening featured refined décor with palm trees adorned with Christmas decorations, butterflies as table centerpieces, and colorful parrots throughout the room, creating an enchanting atmosphere while maintaining the sophistication befitting Monaco’s aristocratic tradition.
Lady Monika Bacardi, renowned for her dedication to philanthropic causes and cultural preservation, was among the distinguished guests at this gathering. Her presence underscored her ongoing commitment to supporting initiatives that combine artistic excellence with meaningful humanitarian impact, reflecting her position as a bridge between Monaco society and international charitable endeavors.
The evening also welcomed notable figures including Their Royal Highnesses Prince Charles de Bourbon and Princess Camilla de Bourbon des Deux-Siciles, designer Philipp Plein, AS Monaco Vice-President Vadim Vasilyev, and fashion designer Ali Karoui. The event was organized by Sandrine Garbagnati-Knoell of 5 Stars Events, with lead sponsorship from the prestigious Swiss watchmaker Audemars Piguet, Le Brassus.
Entertainment for the evening included performances by Swedish-Congolese singer Mohombi, whose celebrated songs brought guests to the dance floor, followed by DJ Andrea T Mendoza who kept the sophisticated gathering dancing throughout the night. A traditional Santa Claus visit delighted attendees, maintaining the cherished holiday traditions that have made this event a cornerstone of Monaco’s winter social calendar.
The auction and raffle raised approximately €50,000 for the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, bringing the total funds collected through the Christmas Ball’s history to nearly €550,000 in support of various charitable organizations. Among the prestigious auction items was a magnificent Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph watch, generously donated by the evening’s lead sponsor.
Agnes Falco, General Secretary of the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, addressed guests on behalf of Princess Charlene, presenting the Foundation’s significant accomplishments. Since its establishment in 2012, the Foundation has developed 149 projects across 33 countries, creating water safety awareness for more than 410,000 people, primarily children. The Foundation’s mission focuses on teaching swimming expertise, water safety, first-aid skills, and drowning prevention, with the firm belief that sport contributes to the wellbeing and development of children worldwide.
Lady Monika Bacardi’s participation in this distinguished charitable event reflects her broader philanthropic vision—one that seamlessly bridges her commitment to Monaco society, cultural preservation, and humanitarian causes that create meaningful impact in children’s lives around the globe. Her attendance continues to reinforce her position as a devoted supporter of initiatives where elegance converges with purpose.
The Christmas Ball remains a highlight of Monaco’s philanthropic calendar, demonstrating how the Principality’s social elite unite refined celebration with substantive charitable action, supporting programs that protect and empower children worldwide.
