On 9 May, Brussels celebrates Europe Day: EU institutions open their doors to the public

Brussels – Forty years ago, the European Union adopted its official anthem and flag and welcomed Spain and Portugal as new members. This year, Europe Day, which is observed every 9 May to commemorate theSchuman Declaration with which the French Foreign Minister of the same name laid the foundations for what is now the EU, coincides with this significant anniversary. And with a practical change of no small importance: 9 May falls on a Saturday, and so the traditional open day at all the European institutions in Brussels will take place at the very same time as Europe Day. 

The celebrations will be launched by the Commission’s Executive Vice-President responsible for Competition, Teresa Ribera, at a ceremony scheduled for 10 am at the Berlaymont Building. “Until 6 pm,” reads the official press release from the European Commission, “the public will be able to learn more about European policy and the work of the Commission and enjoy numerous activities, entertainment, and tastings of European specialities.” Visitors will also be able to discover Experience Europe, a free interactive exhibition just a short walk from the Commission’s headquarters. The European Parliament and the Council of the EU will also open their doors to the general public. 

Not only the headquarters of the main EU institutions, but the whole city of Brussels will be involved in the celebrations. At 4.45 pm, a large festive march will set off from the European Quarter and end at the Grand-Place. Afterwards, the capital’s main square will be draped in a large European flag during a ceremony featuring speeches by the Commission’s representative in Belgium, Thomas de Bethune, and the Mayor of Brussels, Philippe Close.