“Long Live the Grand Duke, Long Live Luxembourg!” — A Historic Day Marks Guillaume’s Accession to the Throne

Luxembourg celebrated a defining moment in its modern history on Friday, as Grand Duke Guillaume officially succeeded his father, Grand Duke Henri, in a ceremony steeped in tradition, emotion, and national pride. The Grand Ducal Palace, the Chamber of Deputies, and the streets of the capital transformed into the heart of a historic celebration that united the nation.

The day began with Grand Duke Henri’s abdication at 10 a.m. at the Palace, marking the end of a reign that spanned nearly 25 years. At 11 a.m., his son, Grand Duke Guillaume, took the constitutional oath before the Chamber of Deputies, pledging to serve the nation and its people. The moment was greeted with thunderous applause and an outpouring of emotion as Luxembourg witnessed the peaceful transition of its head of state.

By midday, the new Grand Duke, joined by Grand Duchess Stéphanie and the Grand Ducal family, appeared on the Palace balcony to greet the cheering crowd. Later, Guillaume and Stéphanie mingled with citizens at Knuedler Square before attending a formal reception at Cercle Cité. The day concluded with a grand gala dinner at the Palace — a fitting close to a momentous day for the Grand Duchy.

Celebrations Continue Across the Country

The festivities are set to continue throughout the weekend. On Saturday, October 4, the celebrations move to the Glacis, where the festival site opens at noon. From 12:30 p.m., live entertainment, music, and large-screen broadcasts of the Grand Duke’s national tour will fill the day with energy and excitement.

Guillaume’s first tour as Grand Duke will take him across the country to meet citizens from all walks of life. His stops include Grevenmacher, alongside former tennis champion Anne Kremer; Wiltz, with table tennis legend Ni Xia Lian and author Mike McQuaide (“An American in Luxembourg”); Steinfort, joined by Michelin-starred chef Léa Linster; and Dudelange, with sprinter Patrizia Van der Weken and actor Jules Werner of Capitani fame.

The tour culminates at the Glacis in Luxembourg City, where Guillaume will be welcomed by journalist Philip Crowther and actress Désirée Nosbusch. At 8:05 p.m., the Grand Duke and Grand Duchess will make a symbolic entrance over the Red Bridge, accompanied by 1,800 citizens and a spectacular tram ballet illuminated in multiple colours. The evening continues with a concert by pianist Francesco Tristano, followed by a dazzling drone show at 10:20 p.m. and performances by around 30 bands and artists. DJ Nosi will close the celebration with a late-night set until 1:20 a.m.

The weekend concludes on Sunday, October 5, with a solemn Te Deum mass at the Cathedral, attended by the Grand Ducal family.

This weekend marks not only the beginning of a new reign but also a renewed sense of unity and optimism for Luxembourg — a moment when the nation comes together to celebrate its heritage, its people, and its future under Grand Duke Guillaume.
Watch the Event: Trounwiessel - Official site - Luxembourg

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