It has become a tradition for the grand ducal couple to visit a different municipality each year on the eve of National Day.
For their first National Day eve as Grand Duke and Grand Duchess, Guillaume and Stéphanie travelled to Differdange on Monday, where the atmosphere remained lively despite, or perhaps partly because of, the high temperatures.
Although the event marked the eve of Luxembourg's National Day, the celebrations had a distinctly multicultural character. Performances ranged from Portuguese drummers and an association promoting Indian culture to a capoeira club, reflecting Differdange's 'Different Together' motto.
The main attraction for many visitors, however, was the grand ducal couple themselves.
"It is, of course, a tremendous honour to be here when the Grand Duke comes to Differdange", one attendee said.
Another visitor described the occasion as both important and special, adding that they were pleased to see the Grand Duke and Grand Duchess in person.
"It was really lovely. The programme was very varied, many associations put on wonderful performances, and it was also great to be able to see them from so close up", a third attendee said.
Due to the high temperatures, organisers shortened the programme and moved all activities to Gerlache Park.
Following the performances, Grand Duke Guillaume signed Differdange's golden book and received several gifts, including a sculpture by artist Jhang Meis.
Meis explained that the gift was a scale model of Eternity, the large sculpture standing outside the 1535° creative hub. He added that the presentation had special personal significance.
In 2002, he had presented another sculpture to Grand Duke Jean on behalf of the City of Esch-sur-Alzette, while in 2014 Grand Duke Henri had presented a sculpture to him, he said. This time, Meis said with pride, it was his turn to offer a work of art to Grand Duke Guillaume.
Although the weather meant that additional heat was hardly necessary, Grand Duke Guillaume also insisted on lighting a fire prepared by the Luxembourg Guides and Scouts at the end of the visit.
The scouts then performed a song for their Chief Scout, Grand Duke Guillaume, celebrating their commitment to always being ready, supporting one another, and taking pride in wearing their scarves and uniforms.
The grand ducal couple subsequently travelled to Luxembourg City, where further National Day eve engagements awaited them.
