Change of throne in Luxembourg: Henri hands over to Guillaume on October 3rd!

Change of throne in Luxembourg: Henri hands over to Guillaume on October 3rd!

On October 3, 2025, a significant change of throne in Luxembourg will take place. Prince Guillaume, the 43-year-old son of Grand Duke Henri, becomes the country's official head of state on this day. Grand Duke Henri, who is 70 years old, has announced that he will abdicate on this date. This decision was announced in December 2024 during his traditional Christmas address, in which he shared his reflection on almost 25 years as head of state and expressed gratitude and humility.

The official abdication ceremony will take place at the Grand Ducal Palace, where the Grand Duke will sign documents before Guillaume is sworn into parliament. Guests at the ceremony include Prime Minister Luc Frieden and Claude Wiseler, President of the Chamber. After the swearing-in, the grand ducal family will appear on the balcony of the palace to wave to the population.

Celebrations and events

Following the ceremony, a reception is planned at Place Guillaume II, where the new Grand Duke couple will greet the people. There will also be official receptions in the Cercle Cité and a gala dinner in the palace. On October 4th, the celebration will continue with “Dem Grand-Duc seng Feierlech Tournée,” during which public celebrations will take place in several cities. In the evening of that day, the couple crosses the Red Bridge into the capital, accompanied by an impressive drone show and a concert on the Glacis.

The celebrations will culminate in a service on October 5th attended by the Grand Ducal family at Notre-Dame Cathedral. These festive events are an expression of the transition to a new era under the leadership of Guillaume and his wife, Princess Stéphanie, who, Grand Duke Henri believes, will contribute to the well-being of the country.

Preparations for the accession to the throne

Prince Guillaume has acted as representative since October 8, 2024 and has thus grown into the role of the future Grand Duke. Grand Duke Henri has confidence in the next generation and their ability to take responsibility for a better future. The impending change of throne is seen as a turning point in Luxembourg's history and sheds a promising light on the country's monarchical future.

With the impending abdication and ascension of Prince Guillaume, the citizens of Luxembourg are prepared for an exciting and festive autumn 2025 that continues the grand ducal family's rich legacy. While Henri looks back on his life's work, the nation looks to the future with optimism.