What is Europe Day?
Europe Day is a day marked in the calendar to celebrate peace and unity throughout Europe every 9th May. Europe Day marks the anniversary of a speech given by French foreign minister Robert Schuman in 1950. Schuman envisaged a Europe free from war and founded on the ideals of cooperation and sharing resources.
This 'Schuman declaration' is widely considered to be the basis for our modern-day European Union.
How is Europe Day celebrated?
On Europe Day, EU institutions are encouraged to open their doors to the public, with open days held in European Parliament, the European Commission and the European Economic and Social Committee among others.
Each year thousands of people take part in visits, debates, concerts and other events to mark the day and raise awareness about the EU.
To celebrate in the classroom or at home, you could try:
- Exploring different European cultures
- Host a model EU
- Learn all about the different countries in Europe
- Learn the different European flags
