Europe Day
Europe Day is a holiday observed by the Council of Europe on the 5th of May and on the 9th of May across the European Union. This holiday was first introduced in 1964 in commemoration of the Schuman Declaration in 1950, and it was established as an official holiday in 1964. In some areas, this holiday is not only celebrated on the day but is also celebrated as a part of Europe Week. The purpose of this holiday is to celebrate and educate citizens on the importance of a unified organization composed of European countries.
The History of Europe Day
On May 5, 1949, the Council of Europe was created. That’s why May 5th was chosen as Europe Day when it was made an official holiday in 1964. However, it’s also observed on May 9th across Europe because French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman proposed what has come to be known as the Schuman Declaration. This declaration, also known as the Schuman Plan, proposed placing French and West German coal and steel production under a single authority that would later be available to other European countries. This would eventually lead to the creation of the European Coal & Steel Community, the first organized European community, in April of 1951.
Facts About Europe Day
As we explore Europe Day, we thought it would be appropriate to explore Europe during our discussion. This has prompted us to list some of the amazing facts that we’ve uncovered about Europe and would like to now share with anyone thinking about celebrating Europe Day.
- Almost every city in France has a street named after Victor Hugo—the famous French poet and writer.
- One of the most popular attractions in all of Europe is Disneyland Paris.
- Approximately 10% of all European babies are conceived in IKEA beds.
- Ten villages in Scandinavia (Denmark, Norway, and Sweden) have names that are just one letter long.
- It’s against the law to name a pig Napoleon in France.
- Only 1% of the British Museum’s collection is on display to the public at any given time.
- The British Museum’s collection consists of over 8 million pieces of art and antiquities.
- Poland has won more strongman competition titles than any other country in the world.
- There are more bicycles in the Netherlands than people.
Observing Europe Day
For people living in Europe, this holiday is a good day to visit European Union institutions. Many countries in the European Union will hold festivals, concerts, or seminars to raise awareness about the EU. And in some countries, EU institutions will hold open days where they organize outreach efforts on this day.
People who don’t live in Europe, however, can still observe this holiday. If they’re an expat, they can find out if there’s a community of their countrymen in their adopted country, and if there are any events related to Europe Day organized in that community. If you’re not an expat of the EU, you can still celebrate this holiday by learning more about the EU.
