© Ken Fitzke / RTL
On Tuesday, beneficiaries of the association Stëmm vun der Strooss enjoyed a welcome escape from their daily struggles with a special trip to Luxembourg's biggest fair.
Around 220 people from Ettelbruck, Hollerich, and Esch gathered at midday on Glacis square, ready to spend a few carefree hours at the Schueberfouer. For many of them, such an outing would have been financially impossible without the association’s support.
Stëmm vun der Strooss has been organising this traditional excursion since the 1990s, and it remains a highlight of the year for those who take part. Participants described the experience as a rare chance to relax, celebrate, and feel part of the community.
One woman described the event as a true day of rest and joy after work, spent among people and funfair rides. Another participant, who had celebrated his 69th birthday just the day before, said that without the association he would never have been able to mark the occasion in this way. A third guest added that, for many, the association provides not only essential support but also hope, making days like this possible when otherwise there would be little to look forward to.
Each person was given the chance to try three rides. The excursion, which cost around €5,000, was financed through donations. Communication officer Bob Ritz explained that contributions from supporters are used to fund special activities throughout the year: Halloween, carnival, and, of course, the Schueberfouer.
One of the association members stressed the importance of these trips for long-term beneficiaries. Such days, she said, give people a much-needed break from routine, allowing them to see something new, and connect them to Luxembourgish culture.
The day did not end with the rides. By 3.30pm., the group had gathered at a restaurant, where two local owners served them a warm meal free of charge. For one of the restaurant owners, it marked the tenth consecutive year of taking part.
As another association member explained, while a small portion of the bill is covered by the association, the majority is absorbed by the restaurants themselves. For them, it is about doing something meaningful: these are people with fewer means, he said, and lending a hand for a good cause is simply the right thing to do.
This year, a new rule was introduced: anyone wishing to join the trip had to have eaten at least twice at the association since the start of the year. The aim was to ensure the opportunity genuinely went to the association's beneficiaries, rather than to those simply looking to take advantage of such outings.
Watch the full report in Luxembourgish
