On Saturday 10 May 2025, the lawn of Kinnekswiss was transformed into a vast space of celebration, culture and discovery for the opening festival of the LUGA – Luxembourg Urban Garden. In the presence of Mrs Lydie Polfer, Mayor of Luxembourg City, Mrs Martine Hansen, Minister for Agriculture, Food and Viticulture, and Mrs Ann Muller, general coordinator of the LUGA, this day marked the official launch of the LUGA 2025 exhibition.
Musical vibrations and artistic performances: spotlight on the local scene
The festival also shone a spotlight on the local music scene with a series of open-air concerts. Taking to the stage were standout acts including IREM, Aucklane, The Ferocious Few, FùGù MANGO, and Ouai Stéphane, alongside homegrown talents such as Blue-ish, Boy From Home, and Alfalfa. Adding to the celebration were the students of the Luxembourg City Conservatory, guided by Max Serra. Their performances infused the Kinnekswiss with a vibrant, festive energy throughout the day, offering visitors a rich tapestry of local and regional soundscapes amidst the park’s natural setting.
A culinary celebration: the Mikrokosmos Pop-Up
Just a stone’s throw from the heart of the festival, the Culture Hub captivated visitors with its gastronomic pop-up Mikrokosmos, curated by De Gudde Wëllen. For the next six months, this vibrant space will offer a unique experience blending responsible gastronomy, conviviality, and musical ambiance – an invitation to enjoy inventive dishes in a laid-back, festive atmosphere that embodies the spirit of the LUGA.
Flavours and local craftsmanship: a taste of the region
Marcello, renowned for its artisanal ice cream, delighted visitors with an exclusive strawberry and rose-flavoured creation, specially crafted for LUGA — a floral, refreshing treat that perfectly captured the spirit of the festival. Complementing this culinary highlight, a variety of local food trucks were on hand to satisfy appetites with a wide array of delicious dishes, showcasing the creativity of its regional artisans.
Eco-conscious atmosphere: a festival in harmony with nature
True to its sustainable spirit, the LUGA Opening Festival also shone a spotlight on environmentally responsible initiatives. From tastings of local products to interactive workshops, every element of the event invited visitors to engage with ecological values and discover the benefits of short supply chains.
At the heart of the LUGA Village, festival partners – including LUGA Nordstad, CFL, the Institut Viti-Vinicole, or even Eurosolar Lëtzebuerg – showcased innovative projects focused on sustainability, urban agriculture, and ecological transition.
With its vibrant atmosphere and meaningful encounters, LUGA 2025 positions itself as a platform where city and nature, culture and environment, tradition and innovation come together to envision a greener, more sustainable urban future.