This day is known as Staatsfeiertag in Leichtenstein, and it commemorates the birthday of Prince Franz Josef II. It was first declared as a national holiday by its government in 1940. It has a double meaning as it was already a public holiday for the Feast of the Assumption (see below). It was unusual as it was created during World War 2, but it was seen as defiance to Adolf Hitler, who said a few days before that “Small states have no right to exist”.
In 1990 it was declared by law as the official state holiday. Since then, a state ceremony to mark the day has taken place on the castle meadow next to castle Vaduz. In the afternoon there are traditional celebration and a funfair, with the day concluded by a 30 minute firework display next to Vaduz Castle.
Holidays & Special Events 