April 30, 2025
(press release)
–
On 9 May, Europeans will celebrate Europe Day. 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, which laid the foundations for the European Union and paved the way for an unprecedented era of prosperity, peace, democracy, solidarity and cooperation in Europe.
To mark the occasion, many events will take place in EU member states and around the world, bringing together citizens from all walks of life. The EU institutions will open their doors and invite citizens to visit their premises, discover their work and engage in a wide range of educational and entertaining activities.
Landmark buildings and monuments across the globe will be illuminated in the EU colours, while a special Europe Day programme is planned for Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan.
In times of global uncertainty, Europe remains an anchor of stability - a place of opportunity and protection for its citizens. The EU and its institutions are working towards the common goal of ensuring prosperity and competitiveness, guaranteeing our security and defence, while upholding the fundamental values Europeans care about.
European Parliament
On 4 May, citizens of all ages will be able to attend the official Europe Day opening ceremony and take a seat in the hemicycle of the European Parliament in StrasbourgMenu Europe Day Programme 4th May European Parliament, Strasbourg 10:00 - 18:00 (last entrance 17:30) Introduction 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, a landmark moment for the creation of the European Union, which we celebrate every year on 9 May, Europe Day. Almost 12 months after the elections, the European Parliament invites you to come and explore how it builds and upholds democracy every day, with a special focus on its main responsibilities: law, budget and scrutiny. Whether you’re curious to learn and understand more, are looking for a fun and engaging day out with your family or friends, Europe Day awaits you with exciting activities. Come and celebrate 75 years of peace at the European Parliament in Strasbourg on 4 May! Menu Hemicycle Activities 11:00 - 17:30 Have you ever wondered what it feels like to sit right at the centre of European democracy? On this Europe Day, take a seat and come to visit the Hemicycle of the European Parliament. Languages: EN/FR/DE 11:00 - 12:00 Official opening ceremony with a video message from President Roberta Metsola, a speech by the Vice-President(s) of the European Parliament, and musical performances featuring the Voix de Stras’ ensemble. 13:00 - 17:30 Hemicycle Talks. Learn everything about the European Parliament with our speakers! Menu Circuit 10:00 - 18:00 01 Welcome Pick up a reusable water bottle and discover everything there is to know about the event programme. Your kids’ activity sheet will also be available here. 02 European Parliament: connection and fighting disinformation Test your knowledge about the EU, snap a souvenir photo, and find out how to connect with the European Parliament. You can also learn about disinformation, how the EU fights it and what you can do. Menu 03 # ALL4CYBER Cybersecurity is a team game – come and play with us! 04 Parliamentary democracy in the EU… and beyond! The European Parliament works inside the EU, but also outside: promoting and supporting democracy and human rights around the world is one of its core responsibilities! 05 European Parliament: shaping your Europe Have you ever wondered how the European Parliament fulfils its democratic mandate and how its work affects you every day? Find out about your rights, vote on key issues, and discuss policies with our experts. Test your EU knowledge in our quiz and capture the moment with friends and loved ones. Menu 06 What have the EU and the European Parliament done for me? Discover the impact of the European Union in your region and in your daily life with our colleagues. Any questions about the EP? Ask EP is here to help, too. 07 Language matters We are working in 24 languages – for you! The European Parliament is the largest multilingual parliament in the world. Every citizen can follow the work of this House in any of the official languages, and the EU’s elected representatives are free to speak and write in the language of their choice. How does a multilingual parliament work? Ask your questions and test your language skills here. Menu 08 Petitions Any questions about the European Parliament and its activities? Do you want to submit or support a petition to the European Parliament? Write to us. 09 Political groups Talk to representatives from the European political groups to decide which one reflects your values and priorities most. Group of the European Group of the Progressive Alliance People’ s Party of Socialists and Democrats in (Christian Democrats) the European Parliament Renew Europe Group Patriots for Europe Group European Conservatives Europe of Sovereign and Reformists Group Nations Group The Left group Group of the in the European Parliament Greens/European - GUE/NGL Free Alliance Menu 10 Local partnerships Come and visit the stands of our local partners: 11 Help make European democracy happen Are you interested in joining us to help make european democracy happen? come and explore what the opportunities are at our jobs and traineeships stand. 12 Bye - Thank you One last stop to collect a little free souvenir to remember your time with us. Menu 13 Outside animation and kids’ corner Take a moment to look back at everything you have learnt in the agora of the European Parliament. Listen to live music and watch as your children enjoy face painting and fun activities with a balloon artist. Menu Exhibitions & Extras Curious for more? We have these exhibitions for you: • Changemakers • The Schuman declaration, 75 years on • Views from Poland • Parlamentarium Simone Veil Upcycling atelier Create small objects out of recycled maps with Creative Vintage! Europarl radio – live from Europe Day at the European Parliament Parliament’s multilingual web-based radio brings you compelling interviews and insights from the event, along with music from all over Europe. Follow us live wherever you are! Menu Practical Information 10:00 - 18:00 Louise Weiss building 1 Allée du Printemps 67070 Strasbourg We invite you to walk/cycle/use public transport to access our Europe Day event. You can also take the Batorama boat for free from the city centre to the European Parliament. The cafeteria will be open all day. Please bring your own reusable water bottle (glass bottles are not allowed), or pick up a free water bottle at the welcome stand, which you can refill at water fountains throughout your visit. Menu Privacy Policy Photography, filming and recording will be taking place throughout the Europe Day events. This is so we can promote the activities of the European Parliament. If you enter a Europe Day area, please keep in mind that you may be filmed or have your picture taken, and that sound recordings may be taken during events in meeting rooms. This material will later be used by the European Parliament to promote its activities. In order to protect your privacy as much as possible, filming, photographing and recording will be limited to stands, areas where activities are taking place and meeting rooms. You release the European Parliament from any liability in connection with the above. For any questions, please contact data-protection@europarl.europa.eu Close Introduction Hemicycle Activities Circuit Exhibitions & Extras Practical Information Privacy Policy EUROPE DAY PROGRAM 4TH MAY 2025. The ceremony will begin with a video message from President Roberta Metsola, followed by a speech from Vice-President Younous Omarjee, and a musical performance by the Voix de Stras' ensemble. Through various exhibits and interactive activities, visitors will learn how the Parliament works, how laws are made, and why European politics matters. Visitors will also be able to visit the "Changemakers" exhibition. On 10 May, the public will once again be given the chance to discover European democracy in action at the Parliament’s hemicycle in BrusselsMenu Europe Day Programme 10 May European Parliament, Brussels 10:00 -18:00 (last entrance 17:30) Introduction 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, a landmark moment for the creation of the European Union, which we celebrate every year on 9 May, Europe Day. Almost 12 months after the elections, the European Parliament invites you to come and explore how it builds and upholds democra - cy every day, with a special focus on its main responsibilities: law, budget and scrutiny. Whether you’re curious to learn and understand more, are looking for a fun and engaging day out with your family or friends, Europe Day awaits you with exciting activities. Come and celebrate 75 years of peace at the European Parliament in Brussels on 10 May! Menu Hemicycle activities 11:00 - 17:30 Have you ever wondered what it feels like to sit right at the centre of European democracy? On this Europe Day, take a seat and come to visit the Hemicycle of the European Parliament. Languages: EN/FR/NL/DE 11:00 - 12:00 Official opening ceremony with a video message from President Roberta Metsola, a speech by the Vice-President(s) of the European Parliament, and musical performances featuring the Kind of Swing Quartet. 13:00 - 17:30 Hemicycle Talks. Learn everything about the European Parliament with our speakers! Menu Circuit 10h00 - 18h00 01 Welcome Pick up a reusable water bottle and discover everything there is to know about the event programme. Your kids’ activity sheet will also be available here. 02 European Parliament: connection and fighting disinformation Test your knowledge about the EU, snap a souvenir photo, and find out how to connect with the European Parliament. You can also learn about disinformation, how the EU fights it and what you can do. Menu 03 # ALL4CYBER Cybersecurity is a team game. Come and play with us! 04 Language matters We are working in 24 languages – for you! The European Parliament is the largest multilingual parliament in the world. Every citizen can follow the work of this House in any of the official languages, and the EU’s elected representatives are free to speak and write in the language of their choice. WHow does a multilingual parliament work? Ask your questions and test your language skills here. 05 What have the EU and the European Parliament done for me? Discover the impact of the European Union in your region and in your daily life with our colleagues. Any questions about the EP? A sk EP is here to help, too. Menu 06 Petitions Any questions about the European Parliament and its activities? Do you want to submit or support a petition to the European Parliament? Write to us! 07 Parliamentary democracy in the EU... and beyond! The European Parliament works inside the EU, but also outside: promoting and supporting democracy and human rights around the world is one of its core responsibilities! 08 European parliament: shaping your europe Have you ever wondered how the European Parliament fulfils its democratic mandate and how its work affects you every day? Find out about your rights, vote on key issues, and discuss policies with our experts. Test your EU knowledge in our quiz and capture the moment with friends and loved ones. Menu 09 Political groups Talk to representatives from the European political groups to decide which one reflects your values and priorities most. Group of the European Group of the Progressive Alliance People’ s Party of Socialists and Democrats in (Christian Democrats) the European Parliament Renew Europe Group Patriots for Europe Group European Conservatives Europe of Sovereign and Reformists Group Nations Group The Left group Group of the in the European Parliament Greens/European - GUE/NGL Free Alliance Menu 10 Help make european democracy happen Are you interested in joining us to help make European democracy happen? Come and explore what the opportunities are at our jobs and traineeships stand. 11 Bye – thank you One last stop to collect a little free souvenir to remember your time with us. Menu 12 Outside animation and kids’ corner Take a moment to look back at everything you have learnt. Listen to live music and watch as your children enjoy face painting and fun activities with a balloon artist. Menu Exhibitions & Extras Curious for more? We have an exhibition for you: • The Schuman Declaration, 75 years on. Europarl radio – live from europe day at the european parliament Parliament’s multilingual web-based radio brings you compelling interviews and insights from the event, along with music from all over Europe. Follow us live wherever you are! Vivacité (rtbf) Radio VivaCité is live from the European Parliament! Listen to music and a special programme on the open days. Menu Practical information 10:00 - 18:00 Last entrance 17:30 ASP building Esplanade Solidarność 1980 1047 Brussels We invite you to walk/cycle/use public transport to access our Europe Day event. The cafeteria will be open all day. Please bring your own reusable water bottle (glass bottles are not allowed), or pick up a free water bottle at the welcome stand, which you can refill at water fountains throughout your visit. Menu Privacy policy Photography, filming and recording will be taking place throughout the Europe Day events. This is so we can promote the activities of the European Parliament. If you enter a Europe Day area, please keep in mind that you may be filmed or have your picture taken, and that sound recordings may be taken during events in meeting rooms. This material will later be used by the European Parliament to promote its activities. In order to protect your privacy as much as possible, filming, photographing and recording will be limited to stands, areas where activities are taking place and meeting rooms. You release the European Parliament from any liability in connection with the above. For any questions, please contact data-protection@europarl.europa.eu Close Introduction Hemicycle activities Circuit Exhibitions & Extras Practical information Privacy policy EUROPE DAY PROGRAMME 10 MAY 2025, with day-long activities emphasising the importance of citizen participation. In Luxembourg, special activities will mark the first anniversary of the Visitors’ Centre on 9 May, including the recently inaugurated Europa Experience. The following day, a rich cultural programme is planned in the Echternach Abbey courtyard. Full programme and events organised in the 27 EU countries.
European Council/Council of the European Union
On 10 May, the Council of the European Union will also open its doors, granting citizens an opportunity to follow in EU leaders’ footsteps. Guided tours throughout the day will offer visitors a rare look at where important European decisions are made. Each of the 27 member states will host a stand, showcasing their culture, traditions, culinary specialties and more. Younger visitors can also expect tailor-made activities, including a treasure hunt and a “fun fact” quest designed specifically for kids. In honour of the Council's 50th anniversary, the public will even be able to travel back in time and take a selfie with the leaders of 1974.
European Commission
On 10 May, citizens will also have the opportunity to visit the Commission’s iconic Berlaymont building in Brussels. Here, they will have the chance to learn about the Commission’s role and priorities, engage in series of activities, and find out more about initiatives and concrete benefits for their daily lives. Among others, visitors will have an opportunity to learn about the Commission’s efforts to boost European competitiveness both, promote social cohesion, protect democracy and protect fundamental rights, at home and abroad.
European Central Bank
As part of its Europe Day celebrations on 10 May, the European Central Bank (ECB) will bring the vibrant spirit of Europe to its hometown, Frankfurt am Main, by participating in the city's Europa-Fest. Visitors will find the ECB at the "European Marketplace" on the Römerberg plaza, alongside Frankfurt-based European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority and the Authority for Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism. In such a special year, celebrating 40 years of Schengen and the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, many themed activities have been organised, with the ECB even planning a lightshow, to be projected onto the west wing of the city's Grossmarkthalle. In Brussels, the ECB will also host its own stand at the Commission's Europe Day event.
European Investment Bank
The European Investment Bank (EIB) Group will welcome visitors to its stand at the Council of the European Union's Justus Lipsius building as part of its Open Day on 10 May in Brussels. EIB Group staff will inform visitors of how its financing and advisory services improve lives and advance EU policy goals. This includes anything from innovation, security and defence to social and territorial cohesion, and the transition towards a net-zero economy. The stand itself will be enhanced by various activities and media, such as quizzes, games and audiovisual material showcasing EIB-financed projects.
European Court of Auditors
On 10 May, as part of the Europe Day celebrations in Echternach, EU auditors will host a series of interactive and engaging activities at the European Court of Auditors’ premises. Among other things, visitors will have the chance to partake in an engaging quiz to test their audit skills. Families and people of all ages are welcome to discover how the European Court of Auditors, the guardian of the EU’s finances, helps protect EU citizens’ money.
European External Action Service
The European External Action Service (EEAS) will open its doors to the public on 10 May for its “Travel the World in a Day” event. Visitors to the EU’s diplomatic headquarters in Brussels will be given an opportunity to learn about the work of the EEAS and its 144 delegations and offices worldwide. Through interactive exhibits and activities, visitors will discover the EU's role as a global leader and reliable partner for prosperity, peace, security, multilateralism, democracy, and a rules-based order. The event will also include a digital booth to help explore the EU pavilion at Expo 2025 in Japan, as well as live dance performances, workshops and family-friendly activities that celebrate global diversity.
European Economic and Social Committee
This year, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) will also host a special celebration of the Schuman Declaration’s 75th anniversary. To honour this seminal text, the EESC – the house of European organised civil society – is putting together a range of activities on its premises, through which it will inform and engage with citizens, while offering insights into its various Sections' and Groups' advisory work. The day itself will offer entertainment for all, with a real-time voting simulation allowing visitors to step into EESC members' shoes and discover the process for themselves.
European Committee of the Regions
On 10 May, the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) will open its doors to the public as well, showcasing how it represents regions and cities in the EU, and everything that regional and local elected politicians do for citizens. Visitors will learn how their region voices its interests in the EU, and they will have the chance to meet local and regional elected politicians and discuss European issues in a direct, informal atmosphere. The traditional Festival of Regions and Cities will treat visitors to a showcase of their preferred tourist spots, traditional music and dance, and various culinary specialties.
Background
Europe Day held on 9 May every year celebrates peace and unity in Europe. The date marks the anniversary of the 'Schuman declaration', a historic proposal made by Robert Schuman, French Foreign Minister, in 1950 that laid out the foundation of European cooperation. Schuman's proposal is considered to be the beginning of what is now the European Union.
In 2025, Europe Day is a special occasion, as we are celebrating 75 years since the Schuman declaration. To learn more about each institution’s programme, visit the Europe Day 2025 website.
For more information
Contacts for citizens
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