Den Nationalfeierdag | Cour grand-ducale (2024)

FAQs

What does the Grand Duke of Luxembourg do? ›

He exercises the executive power jointly with the Government. ' Both within and outside the borders of Luxembourg, the Grand Duke expresses the identity of the country. He symbolises its independence, the unity of the territory and the permanence of the state.

It's National Day in Luxembourg! This celebration of the Grand Duke's birthday is a great opportunity for everyone to gather for festivities organised across the entire country on the 22nd and 23rd of June.

The celebrations on the eve of National Day

The Crown Prince and Princess traditionally visit the second largest city in the country, Esch-sur-Alzette. The members of the Grand Ducal Family then attend the torchlight procession, organised by the various associations of Luxembourg City, and the great fireworks display.

The Grand Duke is the Head of State, as defined by Article 33 of the Constitution. Both within and outside Luxembourg's borders, the Grand Duke is the representative of the country's identity. He symbolises its independence, the unity of the territory and the permanence of the State.

He is the eldest son of Grand Duke Jean and Princess Joséphine-Charlotte of Belgium, as well as a first cousin of King Philippe of Belgium. In 2019, his net worth was estimated around US$4 billion.

In status, a grand duke traditionally ranks in order of precedence below an emperor, king, grand prince, archduke, or prince-archbishop, and above a sovereign prince or sovereign duke.

A traditional Christmas meal in Luxembourg cuisine is Träipen mat Gromperenzalot (black pudding with potato salad). However, they might also serve game meat such as venison or hare stew. These days, however, more families are also opting for non-traditional Christmas meals such as turkey, seafood, or fondue.

1. Christmas. Undoubtedly one of the most celebrated holidays worldwide, Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ in Christian tradition. Observed on December 25th, it transcends religious boundaries, embraced by people of various faiths and cultures.

Is Luxembourg worth going to? Luxembourg City is a great place to spend an easy relaxed weekend trip. Explore the museums and enjoy relaxing in cafes. It is a beautiful city with pretty old streets, canals, and historical architecture including a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Pretzelsonndeg is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent.

The tradition is for the man to offer a pretzel to the woman of his choice. In leap years, the tradition is reversed: the woman offers the pretzel. Give a pretzel to the one you love to declare your love!

What time is the parade in Luxembourg? ›

Every year, a different artist is chosen to compose this special piece of music. Afterwards, the traditional 21-gun salute is fired in the name and honour of Grand Duke Henri. Shortly afterwards, the ceremonial drill and military parade departs at 12pm on Avenue de la Liberté also known as Nei Avenue.

"Ons Heemecht" (formerly "Ons Hémecht"; pronounced [ons ˈheːməɕt], lit. 'Our Homeland') is the national anthem of Luxembourg.

The grand ducal family of Luxembourg constitutes the House of Luxembourg-Nassau, headed by the sovereign grand duke, and in which the throne of the grand duchy is hereditary.

Luxembourg's laws of succession did not allow for a female monarch, so Adolphe of Nassau became Grand Duke, and his descendants reign to this day. The current Grand Duke is Henri who will mark 20 years on the throne on 7 October. Royal Central takes a look at the monarchs of the House of Nassau.

Lady is also the courtesy title for the daughters of the higher-ranking nobles duke, marquess, or earl. The daughters of viscounts and barons are referred to as "The Honorable" (that is, ahem, “The Honourable”), and daughters of baronets or knights are simply called "Miss."

Constitutional role

The constitution of Luxembourg defines the grand duke's position: The grand duke is the head of state, symbol of its unity, and guarantor of national independence. He exercises executive power in accordance with the constitution and the laws of the country.

Dukes were the rulers of the provinces and the superiors of the counts in the cities and later, in the feudal monarchies, the highest-ranking peers of the king.

However, in 1890, the Dutch King died without a male heir bringing his daughter to the throne. Luxembourg's laws of succession did not allow for a female monarch, so Adolphe of Nassau became Grand Duke, and his descendants reign to this day.

The Duke of Edinburgh is His Majesty The King's brother and the youngest child of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. He dedicates much of his time as a full-time working member of the Royal Family to championing young people and promoting the benefits of non-formal education across the world.