International relations
2026 | Wallonia Celebrations: Protocol and Diplomatic Reception
On the occasion of the 2026 Wallonia Celebrations, the International Relations Office of the City of Namur continued its collaboration with the City of Namur’s Communication Department and the Governor of the Province of Namur, Mr Denis Mathen, to coordinate the protocol and diplomatic reception of guests in Namur.
This collaboration notably took shape through the City of Namur’s official reception, held at the Parc des Arts, and the traditional Ambassadors’ Dinner, hosted at the Palace of the Governor of the Province of Namur.
These gatherings brought together representatives of the diplomatic corps, public authorities and institutional partners, helping to strengthen diplomatic and institutional ties in a spirit of dialogue, exchange and conviviality.
The Gaillarde, a symbol of Wallonia
This year, the Gaillarde, the floral symbol of Wallonia, also featured throughout the various highlights of the Wallonia Celebrations. Made into a lapel pin and presented on several occasions, it became one of the symbols of this year’s celebrations.
Through these various gatherings, the Wallonia Celebrations once again helped highlight the international and institutional dimension of Namur, Capital of Wallonia, while fostering exchanges between diplomatic representatives, public authorities and partners around the shared values of cooperation, dialogue and exchange.
A Royal Presence at the Wallonia Celebrations
Saturday 19 September was also marked by the presence of His Majesty King Philippe, who attended the Wallonia Celebrations for the first time since the beginning of his reign. The Sovereign took the opportunity to meet members of the public and attend various performances by traditional folk groups. He concluded his visit by taking part in the official ceremony organised at the Théâtre de Namur by the Parliament and Government of Wallonia.
