National Day: Key Moments of July 21 in Images

Belgium marked its National Day on July 21st with a series of events, including religious ceremonies, public engagements, and parades, celebrating the 196th anniversary of the nation. The royal family played a central role throughout the day's observances.

The festivities commenced with the traditional Te Deum service at the Cathedral of Saints-Michel-et-Gudule in Brussels, attended by political dignitaries including Prime Minister Bart De Wever. The King, Queen, and their four children engaged with the public outside the cathedral. Similar Te Deum services were held in Liège, attended by Princess Astrid and Prince Lorenz, and in Hasselt, with Prince Laurent and Princess Claire.

Later in the day, King Philippe and Queen Mathilde visited the European Village in Brussels, an interactive exhibition focused on democracy and European defense. The afternoon featured a significant civil and military parade on the Place des Palais, showcasing various branches of the armed forces, including a flypast by the new F-35 fighter jet. This year's civil parade notably paid tribute to the services involved in the flood response five years prior.

Complementing the official ceremonies, a public celebration took place in the Parc Royal with entertainment for children, concerts, and folk parades. Princess Astrid and Prince Lorenz joined this event in the evening. A particularly heartwarming moment occurred when the King and Queen, accompanied by their children, visited the Marolles district to share fries with local residents as part of the "Tout le Monde à Table" (Everyone at the Table) initiative, fostering a sense of community and connection.