Liechtenstein National Day at Vaduz Castle 2025

Vaduz Castle (Schloss Vaduz) is the official residence of the Prince of Liechtenstein. It's usually closed to the public. However, on August 15, the Liechtenstein National Day, the castle is open and welcomes visitors.

Program

The whole town of Vaduz gathers for a massive celebration at the castle. In the morning, Prince Alois of Liechtenstein and the President of the Parliament give speeches on the lawn next to the castle. A reception follows the address in the rose garden at Vaduz Castle. Then, the celebration continues downtown. The fair is set up in the pedestrian city center with street vendors and carousels. From about 9.15 pm, lighting of the bonfires and torchlight procession along the Fürstensteig are scheduled. The culmination of the festival is the fireworks display at 10 pm.

Location

Vaduz Castle is one of the most picturesque in Europe, overlooking the town from a hilltop. The Princely Family of Liechtenstein bought Vaduz Castle in 1712. The previous owners were the Werdenberg-Sargan family. Some parts of the castle were built in the 12th century.

History of Celebration

On August 5, 1940, the government of the Principality of Liechtenstein declared August 15 as the country's national holiday, celebrated for the first time just ten days later. This date was chosen as it coincided with the Feast of the Assumption of Mary and preceded the birthdate of Prince Franz Josef II, born on August 16. Following Prince Franz Josef II's passing in 1989, the national holiday remained on August 15, established by law in 1990. Since then, Liechtenstein has celebrated its National Day on August 15, symbolizing the convergence of religious observance and royal heritage in the country's commemorative calendar.