As summer heats up, we take a look in and around Luxembourg for exciting, educational, and engaging activities for children of all ages and abilities.
Children's Week 17–23 May
Across this week, the government has organised a series of 56 events around the country in the context of the 'Children's Week' initiative, which focuses on non-screen related activities to offer educational and fun experiences around health, arts, science, and communication and media.
Many of the events are open to the public, but registration is encouraged before attending. All details of the events are available at the official website.
Monday
Octave is almost over, but there is still time to celebrate Pentecost with fun rides, food, and a host of activities in the heart of the city. Open every day until 10pm at Place Guillaume, children can enjoy miniature train rides, slushies, traditional carousel rides, and games.
The City of Luxembourg encourages children with reduced mobility to attend the event, and a range of measures have been implemented to ensure an inclusive experience. All details on accessibility and the event are available here.
Tuesday
The weather forecast is good, so why not try out the new maze at Parc Merveilleux in Bettembourg. Opened just last week, the Raiffeisen Labyrinth provides interactive, sense, and balance activities, designed for all children, but inclusive also for a child with special needs.
The labyrinth play area was designed in cooperation with The Association of Parents of Mentally Handicapped Children (the APEMH association). Of course, there are plenty of other activities at the park, ensuring an action-packed day full of animals, adventure, and outdoor fun.
Wednesday
Mudam in Luxembourg City's Kirchberg district is holding a day of speaking-based events in collaboration with the National Institute of Languages (INDL) to celebrate the exchange and practice of languages in Luxembourg. The event is suitable for all ages, including children.
From 10am–12pm it is games time. Spend a fun-filled morning playing games in different languages.
Starting at 12pm, and until 3pm, the Talk and Taste event is centred around enjoying "delicious" food and having friendly conversations supported with prompts.
The events are free of charge, but it is recommended to book your place online on their website.
It is also forecast to rain this day, so perhaps an indoor activity could be a sensible option.
Thursday
Luxembourg Urban Garden (LUGA) have organised a range of events in Luxembourg City and across the country to foster interaction and appreciation of wildlife, nature, and leisure activities.
This Thursday, there is a walk where you and your children can learn about wildflowers, and also workshop on movement. Full details of the events, workshops, and walks, can be found at their website.
The events take place in different languages, so check if your child is comfortable with the event's language of instruction. As always, it is recommended to book in advance.
Friday
Sometimes we forget to explore what is on our doorstep, and if you are based in Luxembourg City you should check out the Casemates as an educational and exciting adventure for you and your children.
Guided tours are available in English, and you will explore over a thousand years of Luxembourg's history while walking through ancient battlements, tunnels, and caves. You can book a time slot in your favoured language on this website.
If the tours are fully booked, or you just want a more organic experience, there are plenty of publicly accessible and enjoyable walks around the Casemates that can be entered from the Grund and the area around Neumünster Abbey.
Saturday
Everybody has heard of Vianden, but have you visited Bourscheid Castle yet?
Luxembourg's biggest castle overlooks fairy-tale countryside above the Sûre river and is an inspiring location for children and adults alike. Children under five are given free entry, and adult tickets cost only €7.
Tours are available with actors dressed in full costume.
The area is also full of biking routes, restaurants, and nature trails, making it a historical, healthy, and adventurous day out for the family.
Sunday
Luxembourg City has over 212 recreational spaces that include playgrounds, sport fields, and skate parks.
One of the most spectacular is the themed castle playground in Belair. Crooked towers fountains, rope bridges, swings, and slides will keep the children occupied for a hours; and for the adults, there are benches and tables to set up a healthy outdoor picnic, play board games, or just relax.
If you are worried about amenities, try not to worry – the park includes toilets and changing facilities. For details on how to reach the park, click here.
For further park ideas and a list of free play areas in and around Luxembourg City, you can visit the City website for more information.