Luxembourg National Day: 23 June

This public holiday is also known as Grand Duke Day, since it is the birthday of Jean (b. 1921), the Grand Duke of Luxembourg, who succeeded his mother, the Grand Duchess Charlotte, in 1964. It is also the day on which the country celebrates its independence.

On the eve of the national holiday, Dudelange hosts a torchlight procession, and the castle at Wiltz hosts a fete in the courtyard. In Esch-sur-Alzette, there are athletic competitions and other festivities. Fireworks, parades, special religious services, public concerts, and dancing comprise the elaborate celebration in the capital city of Luxembourg.

Crowds stake out viewing spots anywhere in the city centre, in the valley, or near the bridge for the National Day celebrations. After the fireworks, the city of Luxembourg City holds a massive party with waffles, sausages, beer, music, and dancing in the streets. Bands perform until late in Luxembourg’s two main squares, the Knuedler (Place Guillaume) and the Place d’Armes.

Sources: whatsonwhen.com, Manila Bulletin

Photo: flickr.com/cedwardmoran