Rome to Host Europe Day 2026

Rome and Brussels will serve as primary locations for the celebrations of Europe Day on May 9, 2026. The Italian capital is designated as the central hub for institutional dialogue, while Brussels will host a public festival organized by the European Committee of the Regions.

In Rome, the 2026 celebrations are positioned as a nerve center for dialogue between various institutions. The events in the city are centered around the theme of the hopes and visions of tomorrow’s citizens.

Public Celebrations in Brussels

On Saturday, May 9, 2026, the European Committee of the Regions will hold an open-door festive celebration in Brussels, Belgium. The event is scheduled to take place from 10:00 to 18:00 Brussels time.

The celebration is designed to highlight the political and regional diversity of the European Union through several dedicated areas of activity.

Visitors to the event can engage with Europe’s local democracy by meeting representatives from the political groups of the European Committee of the Regions. Dedicated stands will provide information on how local and regional elected representatives collaborate across different political lines.

The festival will also feature a regional showcase where various countries and regions from across the EU will present their local identity and creativity. According to the event organizers, visitors at these stands can:

• Explore regions seeking to increase their visibility.
• Participate in tastings of local specialties.
• Obtain souvenirs and goodies.
• Find inspiration for future travel to various EU destinations.

a specific stand will be dedicated to the European Committee of the Regions. This installation is intended to educate the public on the organization’s functions, who it represents, and its role in connecting the broader European project to local life in cities and regions.

Family and Community Activities

The Brussels event includes a program tailored for visitors of all ages. The scheduled activities for families and younger guests include:

• Playful challenges and games.
• Performances by a magician and a balloon sculptor.
• Creative, hands-on activities specifically for children.

Historical Context of Europe Day

Europe Day is observed annually on May 9 to commemorate peace and unity within Europe. The date was established in 1964 to mark the anniversary of the Schuman Declaration.

The Schuman Declaration proposed a new form of political cooperation in Europe, which created the foundation for the European Economic Community and the subsequent formation of the European Union.