Europe Day 2026Explore the European Commission Join us on Saturday 9 May Now is Europe’s moment – and this Europe Day is your chance to go behind the scenes, find out how the Commission works, and see inside one of its most iconic buildings: the Berlaymont. Bring your family and friends and get ready to enjoy games, creative challenges, and a special art trail. You can also explore some of the Commission’s most famous spaces, including our TV studios and the Schuman meeting room! Practical informationDoors open at 10:00Entry is free of charge / no need to registerActivities are open to all agesAddressBerlaymont buildingRue de la Loi 200 / Wetstraat 200 1000 Bruxelles / BrusselDirections Plan your visit Europe Day at the Commission will be celebrated in three places: the Berlaymont headquarters, the surrounding outdoor space, and the Experience Europe exhibition centre on Rue Archimède. Visiting the BerlaymontStep inside the heart of the European Commission and embark on a fun and interactive journey of discovery. Open: 10:00 - 18:00 (last entry: 17:30) Cafeteria: 10:00 - 17:00Explore the route >EntertainmentEnjoy live performances by EU artists, meet our mascot, Europa, and savour some tasty European treats. Located on the Esplanade just outside the Berlaymont. Opening ceremony: 10:00 -10:30 Last performance at 18:00Full programme coming soonExperience Europe exhibitionCheck out this free interactive exhibition just a few minutes’ walk from the Berlaymont. Open: 10:00 - 18:00Rue Archimède 1 / Archimedesstraat 1More on Experience Europe > Your journey Use the interactive floor plan to discover your journey and some of the stands and activities on offer. Frequently asked questions How do I find the Berlaymont? The Berlaymont is the home and headquarters of the European Commission. One of Brussels’ most iconic buildings, you’ll find it at Rue de la Loi 200 / Wetstraat 200. The closest public transport stop is 'Schuman' which can be reached by metro, bus and train ('Berlaymont' exit). Will there be food and drinks? Yes, the Berlaymont cafeteria is open from 10:00 to 17:00. You can also join us on the Esplanade (the outdoor area just outside the Berlaymont) to taste some of the finest farm products and flavours from across the EU. What happens if it rains? Much of the route is inside the Berlaymont, with tents on the Esplanade providing cover in case of rain. Please don't bring pointed tip or large umbrellas.Are pets allowed? Pets are not allowed, but service dogs are welcome. Which items are not allowed? To help make Europe Day safe and enjoyable for everyone, please note that the following items are not allowed inside the Commission’s buildings: glass or glass objects (please only bring drinks in plastic bottles)bags larger than 40 x 30 x 20 cm or that are hard-sidedcans (including aerosols), glass bottles, boxed liquids, and metal or other insulated containers, such as reusable water bottlesnitrous oxide and any associated equipment (balloons, CO2 dispensers, cream dispensers)alcoholexplosive and flammable substancesweapons of any kind, including mace, pepper spray, knives, sharp objects, bats, clubs, and tasersdrugs, toxic and narcotic drugsdronespointed tip or large umbrellasnoisemakers, such as air horns, bells, or whistleslaptops and tablets, any kind of recording device, besides a personal mobile phoneprams and golf clubsbicycles, scooters, skateboards and rollerbladesany items which could be used as a weapon, or which may cause danger, offence or disruption to any other person. Do you have questions about the EU? The Europe Direct team is here to help. You can contact them at 00 800 6789 10 11, leave a message, or chat online from anywhere in the world. Data protection policy Please note that photos and videos will be taken during the event. These may be used for communication activities in relation to the EU Open Day. For more information, please see the privacy statement [PDF]. About Europe Day Europe Day traces its origins to 9 May 1950, when the French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman delivered a speech proposing a new form of cooperation in Europe. Known as the Schuman Declaration, it paved the way for a new era of peace, integration and cooperation across the continent – and is now widely regarded as the birthdate of the European Union. In today’s changing world, this Union must be ready to stand strong. Europe Day is a chance to recognise this and celebrate all that our Union stands for. This special day is also a chance to connect with citizens, welcome visitors to the EU institutions, and showcase the work and priorities of the EU. Related links Visit other EU institutions on Europe DayFind events in your country
Europe Day traces its origins to 9 May 1950, when the French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman delivered a speech proposing a new form of cooperation in Europe. Known as the Schuman Declaration, it paved the way for a new era of peace, integration and cooperation across the continent – and is now widely regarded as the birthdate of the European Union. In today’s changing world, this Union must be ready to stand strong. Europe Day is a chance to recognise this and celebrate all that our Union stands for. This special day is also a chance to connect with citizens, welcome visitors to the EU institutions, and showcase the work and priorities of the EU.
