‘This weekend marks the return of the International March of Diekirch, also known as the Army March. Thousands of participants have registered once again. But the event is about more than just physical activity – it also promotes international exchange and offers the chance to enjoy the beauty of the Diekirch region.
That’s why the “garrison town” is more international this weekend than at any other time of the year. Walking enthusiasts from all over the world gather here to hike, march, and connect.
Over the course of two days, visitors to Diekirch can truly get their money’s worth, if they choose to. The International March offers three routes: 12 km, 20 km, or 40 km. The paths differ on Saturday and Sunday, and each is clearly marked in yellow, pink, or blue to guide walkers and prevent confusion.
Getting lost is nearly impossible, as the trails are not only signposted, but thousands of participants take part each day. Most start out with a solid stride in the morning as they leave Diekirch. By the afternoon, however, many are moving a little more unsteadily on the return leg. So don’t be surprised if you spot more than a few people limping through town over the weekend.
As in previous years, the starting point is the Al Seeërei – the old sawmill – near the newly opened multi-storey car park by the train station. The atmosphere is lively in the morning as participants queue up to collect their wristbands, which they need to be identified at checkpoints along the way.
The routes typically begin by crossing the Sûre river. That was the case again on Saturday. Many participants got an early start, no doubt encouraged by the weather forecast: temperatures were expected to soar, and thunderstorms were possible later in the day. A few rumbles of thunder were heard, but Diekirch only saw a few scattered raindrops by late afternoon.
Along the way, walkers could often be seen stopping for breaks, tending to blisters, or stretching out cramps, but most reached the finish line in good spirits and still enjoying themselves.
The march is still largely dominated by soldiers, who come not only from neighbouring countries, where the event has a long tradition, but from much farther afield as well. For the 2025 edition, around 7,500 participants registered – 2,500 of them from the United States alone.
That said, today’s International March is much more diverse. It now includes a wide mix of civilians – families with prams, casual walkers, and even plenty of dogs. Outside some houses, bowls of water are set out for the four-legged marchers too.
Young spectators along the route found their own special ways to cheer on the walkers, whether with handmade signs, small tokens of encouragement, or even just enthusiastic clapping. And it worked!
Elsewhere, children waved at the procession or sold homemade treats: drinks, sweets, snacks, or jars of local honey.
These small moments are what give the Diekirch March its unique charm – alongside, of course, the beautiful scenery. Located on the edge of the Gutland and at the gateway to the Oesling, the routes take participants through hills and valleys, up and down inclines, and along peaceful rivers like the Sûre and the Our.
