Europe Day
Historical Context
Europe Day is celebrated on 9 May in Luxembourg. The Grand Duchy is the only EU member state to recognise this date as a legal public holiday.
On 9 May 1950, Robert Schuman, a Luxembourg-born politician who became French Foreign Minister, presented his declaration that laid the foundations of the European Union. Luxembourg is a founding member of the European Community and hosts several EU institutions, including the Court of Justice of the EU, the Court of Auditors, and the General Secretariat of the European Parliament. The Grand Duchy is the only EU country to celebrate this date as a public holiday.
Events are organised around the European institutions in Luxembourg-Kirchberg. Open days allow citizens to visit EU buildings. Concerts, debates, and exhibitions celebrate European values. The European Schools organise special activities for the occasion.
Regional Traditions
Kirchberg (Luxembourg City)
EU institutions open their doors on 9 May. Around 70 information stands are set up on the Place de l'Europe. The Europa Experience visitors' centre offers free exhibitions on how the EU works.
Schengen (Moselle)
This is where the 1985 Schengen Agreement was signed aboard the ship "Princesse Marie-Astrid." The European Museum stands at the "magic triangle" where Luxembourg, France and Germany meet.
Echternach
Europe Day festivities extend beyond the capital. Echternach hosts complementary events that celebrate European cooperation and shared values.