Luxembourg on 23 June marks its national day, the official celebration of the grand duke’s birthday. The date is fixed to ensure a summer party regardless of the reigning monarch’s birthday. This decision came after both Grand Duchess Charlotte and her heir, Grand Duke Jean, had their birthdays in January.

Traditionally, cities and towns across Luxembourg host celebrations on the eve of national day to benefit from the day off the following morning. For the first time since the start of the pandemic, festivities are back this year.

In Luxembourg City, there will be the traditional torchlit parade starting around 9.20pm, followed by fireworks from Pont Adolphe scheduled for 11pm (though they often start later), and the party will continue at bars, clubs and outdoor stands all night.

Those who think they can brave the official national day ceremony on 23 June at 10am can sign up to join the event hosted at the Philharmonie. This includes music, speeches and usually the grand duke awards national honours to scientists, politicians, actors or other individuals of merit.  

Seats are allocated on a first come, first served basis. Registration will open online on the on Friday 10 June at 9am.

Members of the royal family, the government, parliament, judiciary as well as diplomats and other officials will attend the ceremony, which is followed later in the day by a military parade and a church Te Deum.

Grand Duke Henri’s actual birthday is on 16 April.