Belgium celebrates its National Day with pomp
Belgium celebrated its National Day this July 21st with a series of official events across the country. This day commemorates the swearing-in of the first King of the Belgians, Leopold I, in 1831.
The festivities began with the traditional military and civilian parade at the Place des Palais in Brussels. In the presence of King Philippe, Queen Mathilde, and other members of the royal family, units from the army, police, and emergency services marched before a large crowd that had gathered to attend the event despite the changing weather.
Throughout the day, the center of the capital offered various free activities for citizens. Concerts, demonstrations of military equipment, and food stalls allowed families to enjoy a festive atmosphere in Brussels Park and around the Royal Palace.
The day ended on a high note with the traditional fireworks display launched from the gardens of the Royal Palace. This pyrotechnic show, followed by thousands of spectators, lit up the Brussels sky and marked the official end of the national celebrations, thereby consolidating the country's sense of unity.