It has been three years since people were last able to properly commemorate National Day Eve in Luxembourg City or any other part of the Grand Duchy. Following the restricted pandemic editions of 2020 and 2021, yesterday finally saw a full return of festivities and crowds.
As per tradition, Hereditary Grand Duke Guillaume and his wife Hereditary Grand Duchess Stéphanie used the opportunity of National Day Eve to make an appearance in Esch-sur-Alzette.
Although it has been three years since the last festivities were held in the country’s second-most populous commune, not much has changed in terms of the celebratory programme.
Local officials, including Mayor Georges Mischo, first welcomed the Hereditary Couple at Place du Brill before moving to the town hall in a procession consisting of several local associations. Orchestra, choir, scouts, police, sports clubs, and cultural associations all joined the procession.
After arriving at the town hall, the Hereditary Couple briefly met with local officials before greeting the numerous visitors from the balcony.
While the Hereditary Couple traditionally visits Esch-sur-Alzette on National Day Eve, it is custom for the Grand Ducal Couple to travel to a random municipality. This year’s choice was Kiischpelt.
Grand Duke Henri and his wife Grand Duchess Maria Teresa arrived shortly before 5pm. They were joined by local officials as well as Chamber President Fernand Etgen before visiting a school, the emergency service department, and a traditional art festival.
The Grand Ducal Couple also made time to speak directly to locals before heading back to the capital around 7pm.
