When is Europe Day? History, significance, important details to know

It is that time of the year when the festive zeal can be felt everywhere in Europe, as it is time for the most important event of the year—Europe Day! But do you know what exactly it is, and why is it observed?

When do people celebrate Europe Day?
Europe Day is here and it is the time to think about peace, unity and working together for European countries. On 9 May, Europeans will celebrate Europe Day. This year marks the 76th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, which laid the foundations for the European Union as we know it today and led to an unprecedented era of peace, democracy, prosperity, integration and cooperation across the continent.

The official statement
As per the official statement on the European Council, Council of the European Union, in 2026, Europe Day also marks two important milestones: 40 years since Portugal and Spain joined the EU and 40 years since the first official Europe Day celebrations. To mark the occasion, many events will take place across EU Member States and beyond, bringing together citizens from all walks of life. The EU institutions will open their doors to visitors, offering educational activities about their work, as happens every year. In a rapidly changing world, the EU and its institutions are working to protect democracy, boost prosperity and strengthen security. Europe Day is an opportunity for citizens and their institutions to come together to celebrate their shared community and achievements.

The History and the Schuman Declaration
The European Union started observing this special day on May 9, 1950. On this day, the French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman made an important proposal called the Schuman Declaration. Robert Schuman suggested that France and West Germany, which were enemies during World War II, work together to control their coal and steel production. By sharing these resources Robert Schuman said that it would be very hard for France and West Germany to go to war again. This idea led to the creation of the European Coal and Steel Community, which slowly turned into the European Union we know today. In 1985 European leaders met in Milan. Decided that May 9th would be Europe Day to remember this important moment.

Why does Europe Day matter?
Europe Day is really a celebration of peace. For a time Europe was a place of many wars and conflicts. This day shows that choosing to talk things out, be open with each other and working together is better than fighting. In today's changing world, Europe Day is more important than ever. It reminds us of the importance of democracy, human rights and working when things are unstable.

How do people celebrate Europe Day
Some big European Union buildings in Brussels, Strasbourg and Luxembourg open their doors to the public on Europe Day. This allows people to visit and learn about how the European Union works. In some places like Luxembourg and Kosovo Europe Day is a holiday. In countries like Germany they celebrate for a whole week, which they call "Europe Week." People around the world celebrate Europe Day too. European Union offices in other countries host festivals, debates and concerts to promote friendship between countries. Europe Day is a time to think about peace, unity and working together for European countries. It reminds us of how Europe has come from being a region that was badly hurt by war to a community that works together for a safe and stable future.

The History and the Schuman Declaration
The European Union's Europe Day started on May 9, 1950. On this day the French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman made an important proposal called the Schuman Declaration. Robert Schuman suggested that France and West Germany, which were enemies during World War II work together to control their coal and steel production. By sharing these resources Robert Schuman said that it would be very hard for France and West Germany to go to war again. This idea led to the creation of the European Coal and Steel Community, which slowly turned into the European Union we know today. In 1985 European leaders met in Milan. Decided that May 9th would be Europe Day to remember this important moment.

How do people celebrate Europe Day?
Some big European Union buildings in Brussels, Strasbourg and Luxembourg open their doors to the public on Europe Day. This allows people to visit and learn about how the European Union works. As per the official statement in Luxembourg, activities will include guided tours of the Europa Experience and an exhibition on the fight against disinformation. The following day, a rich cultural program is planned in Wiltz, in the presence of H.R.H. the Grand Duke of Luxembourg. In some places like Luxembourg and Kosovo, Europe Day is a holiday. In countries like Germany they celebrate for a whole week, which they call "Europe Week." People around the world celebrate Europe Day too. European Union offices in other countries host festivals, debates and concerts to promote friendship between countries.