Europe Day in Ukraine

Europe Day is a holiday that’s observed on different days in different places. It’s celebrated by most of the European Union on May 9th, but in Ukraine, it’s observed on the third Saturday in May every year. For Ukraine, it’s a day that celebrates unity with the European Union and it’s a holiday that’s been observed since 2004.

It’s a day that’s usually marked with the erection of a European town featuring pavilions that represent Ukraine, and each member state of the European Union. It’s also a day that’s observed with speeches, parades, and other special events that showcase the unity that Ukraine has with the rest of Europe.

The History of Europe Day in Ukraine

This holiday was begun by Ukrainian President Leonid Kuchma on April 19, 2003. He created the holiday because it seemed inevitable that Ukraine was on course to be integrated into the European Union.

It would quickly become a symbol of the unity of Ukraine with other European countries and a day on which the Ukrainian people can enjoy their shared history and culture with the rest of Europe.

Facts About Ukraine

Ukraine is a country with a diverse and rich culture, so we decided that we would list some of the interesting facts about it that we learned while doing our research for Europe Day.

  • Ukrainians wear wedding rings on their right hands, not their left hands.
  • The tradition of dyeing Easter eggs began in Ukraine.
  • The remains of 40,000-year-old Neanderthal settlements have been found in Ukraine.
  • The most popular dishes in Ukraine are Varenyky and Borscht.
  • The McDonald’s in Kyiv is said to be the busiest in the world.

Observing Europe Day in Ukraine

This holiday is observed by showcasing the culture and history of other European countries while embracing Ukrainian culture at the same time. There are parades, special events, and pavilions where Ukrainians can learn more about other countries in the European Union.

Where is it celebrated?
Ukraine (Observance)
When is it?
This year (2024)
May 18 Saturday
Next year (2025)
May 17 Saturday
Last year (2023)
May 20 Saturday