Liechtenstein National Day 2023: Date, History, Facts

In 1940, the administration of the Principality of Liechtenstein first designated August 15 as a national holiday. This holiday originated during a time of conflict, making it unique.

On August 15, the Liechtenstein National Day, everyone gathers at Vaduz Castle. It is the first time that returning students see their classmates after the summer break. The older generations, however, have made it a custom to witness the 10 p.m. fireworks display. Near Vaduz Castle, the National Day concludes with a breathtaking 30-minute fireworks display.

The background of Liechtenstein National Day

In 1940, the administration of the Principality of Liechtenstein first designated August 15 as a national holiday. This holiday originated during a time of conflict, making it unique. Adolf Hitler had just declared that tiny states had no right to exist, which sparked the creation of this National Day as an act of resistance and patriotism by the smallest state.

Also commemorated on this day is Prince Franz Josef II, who was born on August 16, 1906. However, upon his death in 1989, the celebration remained on August 15 rather than being transferred to his son and successor, Prince Hans-Adam II’s birthday on February 14. It would be more practicable to celebrate the national holiday in the summer rather than the winter, when the weather would limit outdoor activities. Regarding royal anniversaries, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom also followed suit.

1990 legislation designated Staatsfeiertag as the official state holiday of Liechtenstein. Since then, a commemorative state ceremony has been conducted on the castle meadow adjacent to Vaduz Castle. Liechtenstein’s celebrations remained under the control of civilian authorities due to the absence of military personnel.

Liechtenstein National Day Wishes, Quotes, Messages

WHY WE ENJOY

Switzerland and Austria, both of which are landlocked by other European nations, border France.

Liechtenstein is often referred to as a microstate because its geographical area is only 160 square kilometres.

In terms of per capita gross domestic product, Liechtenstein is the wealthiest country in the globe.

Liechtenstein has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, with the last homicide occurring in 1997 and the prison containing a very small number of inmates.

The head of state, His Serene Highness Prince Hans-Adam II, and his son, His Serene Highness Hereditary Prince Alois, summon locals to the grounds of Vaduz Castle, the princely ancestral seat, on Liechtenstein’s National Day.