7 things to do in and around Luxembourg this weekend

1. See masters at work at International Glass Festival

What: Creating glass
Where: Atelier d'art du verre, 2 Hëppschesgaass, L-9940 Asselborn
When: Thursday, 19 August - Sunday, 22 August between 10am-6pm - more info
We make use of glass objects every day, but how are they formed? How does the glass-blowing furnace look like in action? Professionals in the business, as well as students and regular guests are invited to visit the International Glass Festival over the weekend, showcasing many techniques of glass creation including cane blown glass, casting, molten glass, fusing, torch blown glass, mosaics, stained glass, glass painting, sculpturing and more. The practical aspect is followed by lectures and debates and the presentation of works of art.

Highlights include a glass engraving demonstration by Alexander Fokin, one of the best master engravers in Russia, glassblowing demonstrations by Czech glass artist Jiri Suhajek and German glass artist Torsten Rotzsch, known to be among the most original glassblowers, as well as many other masters.

© Pixabay

2. Listen to Japanese psychedelic rock

What: As part of Congés Annulés
Where: Rotondes, 3, Place des Rotondes, L‑2448 Luxembourg
When: Friday, 20 August at 8pm - info & tickets here

Kikagaku Moyo (Japanese for ​“geometric patterns”) are a psychedelic rock band whose sound incorporates elements of Krautrock, Indian ragas and acid folk. They balance heavy, crushing jams with softer, more contemplative moments, recalling Japanese psych groups like Acid Mothers Temple and Ghost, as well as their predecessors such as Far East Family Band and the Flower Travellin’ Band. Founded during the summer of 2012 the group quickly became darlings of the alternative psych scene. They’ve toured the world several times over, including Luxembourg in 2017. If you missed their performance then, here’s your second chance!

3. See exhibition on mental health by UNO

What: Ray of hope and encouragement
Where: Château de Larochette, L-7626 Larochette
When: Between 13 August - 29 August from 10am-6pm - info here

In May 2020, Luxembourg-based Nigerian artist UNO was confronted with the painful realities faced by a friend whose teenage daughter struggled with depression and suicidal thoughts. Shocking reports about the rising rate of mental health issues among young people in Luxembourg and the continuous struggle with his own past trauma (he was shot in the head in a politically motivated attack in Benin City, fled to Russia and Germany before settling in Luxembourg) led him to think about the ways in which art can be used to raise awareness about mental health issues and figure as therapy for those affected. That is how the project now titled ‘X-Ray’ was born, encompassing 20 acrylic paintings and resin sculptures.

Exhibition Perticipation - Visitors admire works at the TUFA 2019 Jahresausstellug der Kulturwerkstatt in Trier. / © Art by Uno

4. Jump on rides & eat gromperekichelcher at 'Fun um Glacis"

What: Rides, attractions and refreshments
Where: Champ du Glacis
When: Between 21 August - 12 September from 11am-11pm - info here

Luxembourg City's alternative summer programme kicks off this weekend, which replaces the traditional Schueberfouer for the second year in a row. Around 40 stands selling food and drinks will be distributed over two different zones, also including two roller coasters and games for children. Gastronomy will be placed in the "small Glacis", and visitors require a Covid pass to enter. The "large Glacis" requires face masks at all times (but no CovidCheck), and consumption of food or drinks is prohibited. Sure, it's all a tad different, but still fun! The world's largest transportable roller coaster will be there...

5. Watch Free Guy

What: Video game version of The Truman Show?
Where: Kinepolis Kirchberg, 45 Avenue J-F Kennedy, L-1855 Luxembourg
When: Several weeks at cinemas, times vary - info & tickets

When a bank teller discovers he's actually a background player in an open-world video game, he decides to become the hero of his own story -- one that he can rewrite himself. In a world where there's no limits, he's determined to save the day his way before it's too late, and maybe find a little romance with the coder who conceived him. An epic adventure comedy with a truly epic trailer as well...

6. Discover water parks and pools around Luxembourg

What: Go for a splash
Where: Several different options
When: Anytime

This weekend brings summer temperatures back to the Grand Duchy, so it's time to jump into some pools. Think Luxembourg doesn't have any water parks? Or awesome water slides? Well, there are quite a few surprisingly cool pools with water park features in Luxembourg. From outdoor pools to long indoor water slides, saunas, gyms, whirlpools, high diving boards, restaurants, adventure showers...you get the idea. Have a look at our selection here. Do keep in mind that most, if not all, pools will require prior reservation.

© Shutterstock

7. Groove out to blues-rockers Fred Barreto Group

What: Plain good vibes
Where: Château de Pettingen, 28 rue du Château, L-7463 Pettingen
When: Sunday, 22 August at 7pm - info & tickets

Hailing from Brasil, Fred Barreto is one of those blues guitarists in Luxembourg with a signature sound. His compositions are energetic and filled with epic licks, and his band is pocket. A new album is in the making, to be release in October of 2021, so this night will be filled with teasers of the upcoming record. In fact, blues fans are lucky, because next week at Pettener Summer Nights the Kid Colling Cartel will also be playing.

Is there an event you think we'd enjoy and like to share with our audience? Feel free to let us know through audience@rtltoday.lu and we may consider it for next week's agenda.