Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene have been attending the Red Cross Gala together for over five years

With tickets selling for 1,000 euros a pop, the event is by no means cheap, but all proceeds will be donated to the Red Cross to support their charitable work. Guests will be provided with world class music entertainment and during the dinner there will be a tombola, whose top prize is a diamond encrusted broach by Reposee. For all attending the evening promises to be unforgettable.

Amongst the guests will be Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene of Monaco, who will no doubt be bringing considerable measures of glamour to the event. Ever since Grace Kelly's death in 1982, Albert has been the president of the Red Cross in Monaco and has attended the gala every year.

Since it was founded in 1948, the Monaco Red Cross has endeavoured to carry out its humanitarian aims of preventing and alleviating suffering. Tonight's dinner always raises wonderful sums of money for the organisation that carries out its work in Monaco and around the world.

In a break from tradition, the soon-to-retire rock band, the Scorpions, will be performing a mellowed-down acoustic set to fit the tone of the evening. Many Scorpion fans will be envious of those attending the gala as the group rarely give acoustic performances and are definitely not famed for being mellow.

Following the band will be singer-turned-DJ Boy George whose set will probably be as unpredictable as the star himself. 

As ever, there is an element of mystery surrounding the sumptuously luxurious gala, as we are left to wonder who will be attending, how the famous Salle Des Etoiles will be decorated and what will be the highlight of the evening. As tables are laid, guitars tuned and shoes polished, what we can be certain of is that this annual event is a testament to the Principality's commitment to supporting those in need through charity and giving.

Edward Hetherington