US Embassy in Luxembourg Hosts Hollywood-Themed Independence Day Celebration

On Wednesday 2 July 2025, the US Embassy in Luxembourg welcomed guests to its annual Independence Day celebration, this year held under the theme "A Hollywood Affair: A Celebration of American Cinema".

Independence Day, celebrated annually on 4 July, commemorates the ratification of the Declaration of Independence by the Second Continental Congress in 1776, marking the birth of the United States of America.

The festivities took place on the embassy grounds in Luxembourg-Limpertsberg, bringing together diplomats, local officials and community representatives to mark 249 years of US independence. Guests included the President of the Chamber of Deputies (Luxembourg's parliament), Claude Wiseler, the President of the Council of State, Marc Thewes, Luxembourg's Minister of Finance, Gilles Roth, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Xavier Bettel, accompanied by his husband, Gauthier Destenay.

The formal part of the reception kicked off with the presentation of the colours and the singing of the US and Luxembourg national anthems by a local youth choir.

In his remarks, Michael Konstantino, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. at the US Embassy, said the evening's theme celebrated "something quintessentially American". He noted that Hollywood cinema has long served as a window into American culture: "American movies inspire, connect, and sometimes even change how we see the world or other people." He added: "That desire to reach ever higher and push the limits has always defined the American spirit. And it's truly what animates our democratic intensity, our business culture and our commitment to innovation."

Mr Konstantino described the US-Luxembourg relationship as a "principled partnership" based on "aligned interests" and "real results", highlighting strong US business activity in Luxembourg and shared commitment to defence, including NATO's 5% spending pledge. Beyond policy, he emphasised the human connections underpinning the bilateral relationship.

He spoke of the importance of dialogue, noting that strong partnerships are also built on how differences are handled: "The United States values honest, open conversations with our European partners". He underscored the role of free speech, the "freedom to express ideas, challenge each other and work through disagreements".

Concluding on a personal note, Mr Konstantino reflected on his and his husband's time in Luxembourg as they prepare to leave: "The warmth of the people, the depth of our friendships, the quiet strength of this country have left a truly lasting impression on us." He also shared a few parting words in Luxembourgish to thank the country and its people.

Throughout the evening, guests mingled under tents and inside the residence, enjoying finger food, American sweet treats and a festive Hollywood-themed atmosphere - despite the summer heat later giving way to wind and rain. A red carpet at the entrance led to a giant US flag and themed décor, including a chocolate bar, mini movie posters and other nods to American pop culture.

(Pictured, L-R: Shalom, Michael Konstantino's husband; Gilles Roth, Luxembourg's Minister of Finance; Michael Konstantino, Chargé d'Affaires at US Embassy)