The embassy has been marking the occasion with a series of events in the run up to the big day, celebrating Irish culture and the strong connections between Ireland and Luxembourg.
“There’s been loads going on already in advance of the big day”, Ambassador McDonald told RTL Today Radio. “We’ve been celebrating in style.”
One of the highlights was the recent visit of Irish Minister Jennifer Murnane O’Connor, who travelled to Luxembourg to meet members of the local Irish community. These international visits are a long standing tradition around St Patrick’s Day, when Irish ministers travel abroad to connect with Irish communities around the world.
Luxembourg is home to a surprisingly large Irish population. According to the embassy, around 2,500 Irish citizens live in the country, many working in European institutions, financial services and other international sectors. Alongside the official programme, the Irish community is also active through cultural groups and organisations such as the Luxembourg GAA and Comhaltas Luxembourg, which promote Irish sport, music and heritage. Events including traditional céilí dances and cultural gatherings have already taken place over the past week.
Deputy Head of Mission Caoimhe McCarthy also highlighted the recently launched Irish Young Professionals Network, which aims to connect early and mid career professionals living in Luxembourg.
Launched in July 2025, the network has already grown to around 350 members, mainly connected through its LinkedIn community.
The initiative provides networking opportunities, career guidance, and events where younger members of the community can meet experienced professionals and build connections within Luxembourg’s international environment.
“It’s a great way for people who might not work with other Irish people to feel connected to home”, McCarthy said.
The ambassador also noted that 2026 will be a significant year for Ireland in Europe, as the country prepares to take on the Presidency of the Council of the European Union from July.
As part of the presidency programme, each Irish county will be paired with an EU member state, with County Carlow partnered with Luxembourg. This initiative aims to encourage cultural, educational and community exchanges between the two places throughout the year.
While St Patrick’s Day is Ireland’s national holiday, Ambassador McDonald emphasised that the celebrations are open to everyone.
“One of the things I love about representing Ireland abroad is the idea of the affinity diaspora”, she explained. “You don’t have to be Irish to celebrate. If you feel a connection through music, literature or culture, there’s always a way to join in.”
Across Luxembourg, Irish pubs, and restaurants will be marking the occasion with themed menus, live music and celebrations, giving locals and visitors alike a chance to enjoy a little Irish spirit.
RTL Today Radio is also getting into the St Patrick’s Day spirit with a special giveaway.
Listeners have the chance to win a €500 Luxair voucher, with opportunities to enter across the station’s shows on March 16 and March 17.
