The national holiday of Luxembourg is celebrated on 23rd June, although this has never been the actual birthday of any ruler of Luxembourg. It is also known as The Grand Duke’s Official Birthday, although if the monarch of Luxembourg is female it is known as the Grand Duchess’s Official Birthday.
The monarch’s birthday has not always been celebrated on 23rd June. Under William I the date was 24th April and under William II it was 6th December, his actual birthday. Because William I abdicated in October, it was celebrated twice in 1840. Under William III the date was 17th June until 1859 and then 19th February after, his actual birthday. With the separation of the orders of succession, the Dutch and Luxembourgish thrones split in 1890. The Nassau-Weilburg monarchs celebrated their official birthdays on their actual birthdays. In 1947 the day was declared a national holiday. As both the then-reigning Charlotte, and heir apparent Jean were born in January, therefore they feared it would be celebrated in poor weather. Thus, on 23rd December 1961, the date was fixed on 23rd June by Grand Ducal decree.
The festivities begin on the afternoon of 22nd June. A torchlights parade takes place at dusk on the evening of 22nd June, and dancing and festivities continue late until the night. On the 23rd processions with the Grand Ducal Family of Luxembourg takes place.
Holidays & Special Events 