- Categories:
- Federal
- Tags:
- AppreciationCulturalHistorical
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Council of Europe celebrates May 5; European Union celebrates May 9
- Holiday emoji:
- 🇪🇺
Europe Day, observed on May 5 by the Council of Europe, celebrates peace and unity across the continent. It’s a time to reflect on Europe’s rich history and its future, fostering closer ties among citizens. Join in the spirit of unity by exploring European culture, learning about its institutions, and recognizing its shared values.
Want to sponsor Europe Day? Learn how
History of Europe Day
The Council of Europe, the international organization founded to uphold democracy in Europe, first created Europe Day in 1964. May 5 was chosen to celebrate the first Europe Day because it was the day the Council of Europe was created. It wasn’t until later that the European Union established May 9 as their own Europe Day in honor of the 1950 Schuman Declaration. This is why some people refer to Europe Day as Schuman Day. The Schuman Declaration or Schuman Plan was a proposal by the French Foreign Minister, Robert Schuman, to place the French and West German production of coal and steel under a single authority that would later be opened to other European authorities.
The Schuman Declaration was important because, as Schuman asserted, the coming together of the countries of Europe would not be possible without ending the age-old opposition of France and Germany, a rivalry that was eliminated by uniting their coal and steel resources. The six founding members of the Schuman Declaration signed the Treaty of Paris, which created the European Coal and Steel Community in 1951.
The European Coal and Steel Community was Europe’s first supranational community, and it paved the way for the European Economic Community, and eventually, the European Union. So, we can say that the Schuman Declaration was responsible for uniting all of Europe under the European Union. Europe Day celebrates the peace and unity that the Schuman Declaration established. After the European Union was founded, more countries started observing Europe Day. Germany even extended it to Europe Week.
Europe Day timeline
The Council of Europe is founded officially on May 5.
The European Council adopts Europe Day on June 29 after a report by the ad hoc commission for “a People’s Europe.”
The European Union is established as a result of the Maastricht Treaty.
In Luxembourg, for the first time, May 9 is declared an official public holiday to mark Europe Day.
Europe Day FAQs
When is Europe Day?
For 2027, Europe Day, as celebrated by the European Union, takes place on Sunday, May 9. This date commemorates the historic ‘Schuman Declaration’ of 1950, a pivotal moment in the formation of the EU.
How many countries are in the European Union?
The European Union continues to consist of 27 member states in 2027. While membership has seen changes over time, the core commitment to European integration remains central to its mission.
What is the significance of Europe Day?
The significance of Europe Day in 2027 lies in its dual commemoration of foundational moments for European institutions. It underscores the ongoing commitment to a united Europe, reflecting on past successes and future challenges.
What is the difference between Europe Day on May 5 and May 9?
May 9, often called Schuman Day, marks the anniversary of the 1950 Schuman Declaration, which proposed the creation of the European Coal and Steel Community. This declaration is considered the beginning of what is now the European Union.
Europe Day Activities
Fly the flag
The European flag is an official symbol representing Europe and the European Union. On Europe Day, you can buy, make, or print a copy of the flag of Europe and wave it in solidarity and patriotism. You can get your family and friends to participate and paint the entire continent blue.
Visit an E.U. institution
On Europe Day, certain European institutions like the European Parliament and the European Commission open their doors to citizens. You can visit any of these institutions and learn about how decisions that affect Europe are made.
Rock out at a concert
Every year, official Europe Day concerts are held all over the continent. You can attend a concert and enjoy Europe’s rich history through music. From opera to polka to pop, you can enjoy some of Europe’s best musical genres.
5 Important Facts About Europe
The happiest place on Earth
Even more popular than the Eiffel Tower, Disneyland in Paris is one of Europe’s most-visited attractions.
They love IKEA
In the 2021 financial year, Europe accounted for about 70.7% of IKEA's sales,
Small but mighty
Even though Europe is the second-smallest continent, it has the third-largest population and is one of the most powerful continents on Earth.
It’s not “the West”
Even though people often refer to Europe as “the West,” it is contained entirely in the Northern Hemisphere, with most of its landmass in the Eastern Hemisphere.
Greek love
The name “Europe” is derived from Greek Mythology, named after the Phoenician princess Europa.
Why We Love Europe Day
It celebrates unity in a diverse world
In a world with so much diversity, it can be hard to stay united. Europe Day teaches us that it is possible to work together towards a common goal while being respectful of our differences and celebrating our similarities.
We learn about history
On Europe Day, we learn about the history of one of the most powerful continents in the world. We learn about how it got to this point, what mistakes were made, and what differences we can make going forward.
It brings people together
Europe Day brings over 500 million people from 27 European countries together. A farmer in Belgium will be able to celebrate with a trader in Spain even though they are miles apart. No matter where you are, you can celebrate Europe Day and feel connected with other Europeans all over the world.
Europe Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | May 5 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | May 9 | Saturday |
| 2027 | May 5 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | May 9 | Sunday |
| 2028 | May 5 | Friday |
| 2028 | May 9 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | May 5 | Saturday |
| 2029 | May 9 | Wednesday |
| 2030 | May 5 | Sunday |
| 2030 | May 9 | Thursday |
