The Principality of Monaco's International Fireworks Competition to Shine over Port Hercule This Summer
Musical Fireworks at Port Hercule begin after sunset and most of the lights in the Principality are dimmed for the duration of the show. Fireworks are followed by a concert organized by the Monaco Council, with performances by the Municipal Jazz Band. All shows are free of charge. Performances are as follows:
- July 7, 2009 at 10pm – Portugal
- July 24, 2009 at 10pm – Austria
- August 9, 2009 at 9:30pm – Austria
- August 23, 2009 at 9:30pm - France
Several locations surrounding Port Hercule offer prime viewing for spectators including Palace Square, Casino Terrace, the many water-side cafés on Monaco’s harbor, the hill sides of the “moyenne corniche” (mid coastal road), and the ramparts of Fort Antoine. The Exotic Gardens also remain open late each night of the Festival for great hill-side viewing. Admission to the Exotic Gardens is free but seating is limited. Guests may apply for an invitation for seating in the gardens, available through the Communications Department of the Mayor’s Office (Tel. :+ 377 93 15 28 73) or directly from the Exotic Garden (Tel.: + 377 93 15 29 80).
One of the Mediterranean’s most popular summer events, the International Fireworks Competition has been held since 1966 when it was created as a highlight of the celebrations for the Centenary of the Sovereign Order establishing the district of Monte-Carlo. One hundred and twenty five pyrotechnicians representing 26 countries have taken part in this event over the years including Austria, Australia, Brazil, Canada, The Canaries, China, Denmark, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Holland, Italy, Japan, Lebanon, Madeira, Malta, Mexico, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, United States of America and Venezuela. In 2007, the winner was France with Hong Kong in second place and last year saw fierce competition between Great Britain, Poland, Austria and Denmark with the Austrians taking the First Prize honors and the 100,000 euro check.
Travelers to Monaco can find excellent vacation value by bidding on exclusive packages at exceptional prices at www.MonacoAuction.com, the premiere online travel auction marketplace dedicated to luxury travel within the Principality. For more information, please contact the Monaco Government Tourist Office (MGTO) at 565 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10017; telephone (800) 753-9696 or (212) 286-3330; or e-mail info@VisitMonaco.com. Information and links are available via the Monaco Government Tourist Office web site at www.VisitMonaco.com.
Press contact:
Elle Berdy Michelle Colligan
Consulate General of Monaco Redpoint Marketing PR, Inc.
212-286 0500 212-229-0119
E.Berdy@monaco-consulate.com colligan@redpointpr.com
