Royal Family and Leaders Mark Belgium's National Holiday with Te Deum Service

Belgium's national holiday celebrations kicked off with a solemn Te Deum service in Brussels, attended by the royal family and numerous political dignitaries. Prime Minister Bart De Wever, along with the presidents of the Chamber and Senate, Peter De Roover and Vincent Blondel, were among the prominent figures present.

Several government ministers also joined the congregation, including David Clarinval (Employment and Economy), Maxime Prévot (Foreign Affairs), Annelies Verlinden (Justice), Bernard Quintin (Interior), and Theo Francken (Defense). The service is a traditional part of the national holiday commemorations, alongside the King's Day celebration on November 15.

Following the service, King Philippe and Queen Mathilde, accompanied by their four children, emerged to greet hundreds of enthusiastic citizens gathered outside the cathedral. The royal couple engaged in a meet-and-greet for about twenty minutes, sharing the festive spirit with the public.

Other members of the royal family participated in separate Te Deum services across the country. Princess Astrid and Prince Lorenz attended a service in Liège, while Prince Laurent and Princess Claire traveled to Hasselt for their own observance.

The day's festivities are set to continue with a military and civilian parade scheduled for the afternoon. The evening will feature a "Belgian Party" in the Cinquantenaire Park, with the royal family in attendance, culminating in the traditional fireworks display.