Ettelbruck’s Däichwisen are once again hosting the country’s flagship agricultural event, expected to attract around 50,000 visitors by Sunday evening if the best possible weather conditions remain. The festivities began traditionally with school groups, as 3,500 children and their teachers were welcomed on site. A wide range of workshops has been prepared for these students and the many families who are set to visit over the weekend.

Now in its 43rd year, the Ettelbruck Agricultural Fair has evolved from a modest farmers’ exhibition into a unique showcase for Luxembourg’s agricultural sector. This year, some 380 exhibitors are presenting their products and services, from livestock and foodstuffs to agricultural machinery, and far beyond. Anne Dirske, a project manager at the Lycée agricole and a leading member of the organising committee, explained that the fair is both a tradition and a dynamic event, as most exhibitors come back year after year, creating a "big family". Nonetheless, the fair also welcomes new visitors every year, including those from abroad. Dirske is pleased to see that the fair sparks such interest, emphasising that they "do their best to ensure everyone finds their place here in the Däichwisen."

Classic features remain at the heart of the fair, including national and international competitions where the top livestock are crowned. On Friday morning, before the official opening, the animals received some final grooming. Frank Recken from Convis explains that the competitors "do a bit of trimming here and there, combing some hair up or down" to show off the animals in the best way possible. He emphasises that presentation is important because each farm prides itself on its animals.

This year’s fair carries the motto “Reconnect”, with a particular emphasis on local food production and Luxembourg producers. The event aims to highlight their achievements and allow them to demonstrate the value of their work, especially as global market pressures and expected reductions in EU funding from Brussels present growing challenges for many farmers.

Organisers strongly encourage visitors to use public transport to reach Ettelbruck. Special tractor shuttles are running from Ettelbruck railway station, and park-and-ride facilities, such as the one at Krakelshaff, are also available for those arriving by car.