Ambassador Bintner-Bakshian with embassy staff;
Credit: C. Naseer Ahmad
On Friday 3 October 2025, the Luxembourg Embassy in Washington, DC (US) hosted an unforgettable evening marking the accession of Grand Duke Guillaume to the throne in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, the Trounwiessel.
Under a clear, golden autumn sky, the Luxembourg Embassy came alive with warmth, pride and celebration. Diplomats, members of the Luxembourg diaspora, friends of Luxembourg, and Washington’s diplomatic and cultural elite, gathered to mark a historic moment: the accession of His Royal Highness Grand Duke Guillaume to the throne of Luxembourg, following the abdication of his father, Grand Duke Henri, earlier that day in Luxembourg City.
An Elegant Welcome in a Symbolic Setting
Guests were welcomed by Luxembourg Ambassador Nicole Bintner-Bakshian and her all-female leadership team, whose hospitality set the tone for an evening that celebrated both continuity and progress. The embassy building — already admired for its refined architecture — seemed to shimmer with special radiance, “as if a bride on her wedding night,” one guest remarked.
Inside, laughter and conversation filled the air. Old friends and colleagues reunited, diplomats and Luxembourgers abroad exchanged greetings, and many gravitated toward a large television showing live footage from the Grand Ducal Palace — a window to the day’s historic ceremony in Luxembourg City.
A Taste of Home and Heritage
The Embassy staff moved gracefully among the guests, offering fine wines and sparkling drinks, while Cultural Attaché Elisabeth Herndler ensured every detail was impeccable.
A lavish buffet — elegantly arranged beside the embassy’s tall windows overlooking Q Street NW — offered a feast of flavours that celebrated Luxembourg’s culinary spirit. The desserts, prepared by the Embassy’s chef, were particularly praised as “out of this world.”
“It was a celebration not only of our constitutional monarchy but of the enduring friendship between Luxembourg and the United States,” said Ambassador Bintner-Bakshian.
A Patriotic and Emotional Moment
The evening reached its emotional peak when guests stood together for the national anthems of the United States and Luxembourg.
In her remarks, Ambassador Bintner-Bakshian reflected on Luxembourg’s royal legacy and the historic nature of this transition. She also shared the story of the embassy building itself — its deep connection to the Grand Ducal family and its role as a symbol of Luxembourg’s enduring presence abroad.
A Farewell Filled with Affection
As guests departed, they were presented with elegant gift bags filled with Ferrero Rocher delicacies — a sweet reminder of Luxembourg’s refined taste and generous spirit. Yet the true souvenir of the evening was intangible: the rekindled sense of pride and belonging shared among Luxembourgers and friends alike.
“Tonight reminded us of how deeply connected we remain — across oceans, across generations,” said one guest from the Luxembourg diaspora. “It was a night to remember.”
Guests celebrating the Trounwiessel at the Luxembourg Embassy in Washington, DC
Credit: C. Naseer Ahmad
