The Monegasques seemed to be having a great time.
This weekend the Monegasques celebrated the important holiday of Sainte Dévote. As always, some local royals are present, but in recent years it almost seemed to become a tradition that either Albert or Charlene was conspicuous by his absence. This year was therefore extra special, because the entire Monegasque family was complete.
Sainte Devote
Last Thursday Charlene blew out 46 candles. The princess celebrated her birthday like a true Monegasque does: with haute couture and a huge cake. However, there was not much champagne to be had, because the next day she was expected again at Sainte Dévote: a national holiday in the tiny country, which is celebrated in memory of their patron saint. The tradition here is to set a fishing boat on fire.
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Family complete
The Monegasque princely family really surprised us with their complete presence at Sainte Dévote. Charlene failed to perform in 2022, and last year it was Albert who was conspicuous by his absence. This weekend the family was present in all their glory, and traditionally they set the fishing boat on fire together. It resulted in very cute photos of twins Jacques and Gabriella…
![](https://content-cdn-wp.beaumonde.nl/2024/01/NLB-28515380-768x1149.jpg)
…and even a snapshot of a smiling Charlene…
![](https://content-cdn-wp.beaumonde.nl/2024/01/NLB-28515365-768x1188.jpg)
You would almost think that it is starting to become a habit. Some things never change, because the princess had bought a new coat for the occasion. The experts at Royal Fashion Police tell us that it is a designer item Emilia Wickstead. These are not modest pieces, so it is hoped that the jacket survived the scene without any burn marks.
Second part
Good: the Monegasques wouldn’t be the Monegasques if they didn’t attach a ceremony with bells and whistles to the holiday. And so the next day a church service takes place in honor of the Holy Devota, during which protection of the principality and the princely family is requested. A parade is then held, which Albert and Charlene can watch from the balcony, laughing sheepishly.
Miracles appear to exist after all, because for the second part of the celebration of Sainte Dévote, Charlene appeared in an outfit she had already worn, this time from her favorite brand Akris.
![](https://content-cdn-wp.beaumonde.nl/2024/01/NLB-28525727-768x1207.jpg)
We got a bit of funeral vibes from the look, but that probably has to do with the death of the patron saint. Anyway: we are certainly happy that we saw the family complete and happy again!
Source: Blauw Bloed, Instagram @royalfashionpolice | Image: NL Image