Thanksgiving in Monte Carlo with the American Club of the Riviera

As in past years, members and friends of the American Club of the Riviera will gather around elegant tables in Monte Carlo to celebrate the cherished family holiday of Thanksgiving. As the usual location, the Hôtel de Paris, is closed for renovations, the event will be held in the splendid Salle Belle Époque at the Hôtel Hermitage.

This is truly Thanksgiving done to the highest standards, with a traditional American feast of turkey and all the trimmings, preceded by a Champagne reception. The company will be the Club’s friends and families, as well as honored guests from the U.S. Air Force.

Among the most poignant highlights of the Club’s Thanksgiving lunches are the presence of the U.S. Military personnel, who share this quintessentially family holiday with The American Club of the Riviera. Far away from home, they appreciate being welcomed into the family for this one special day, and, in turn, enrich the Club’s experiences of Thanksgiving. One male or female member of the U.S. military is seated at each table.

The event that Americans commonly call the “First Thanksgiving” was celebrated by the Pilgrims after their first harvest in the New World in 1621. This feast lasted three days, and it was attended by 90 Native Americans and 53 Pilgrims.

It is not often noted that Thanksgiving is a holiday, which is neither military nor religious. It started as a harvest festival and now gives us all an opportunity to express what we are thankful for. Living or visiting the French Riviera is wonderful and is certainly something for which we should give thanks.

Many of the American Club attendees are not American but all love the event and a big turnout is expected – in 2013 there were 150 attendees and more are expected this year. Thanksgiving falls on Thursday November 27th in 2014 and the Club’s celebration will be on that day. Tickets for the event are priced from 85 euros. For reservations, visit the official website: http://americanclubriviera.com