Europe is home to more than 200 languages. The European Union alone has 24 official languages and more than 60 regional or minority languages. On 26 September we celebrate the richness of our many languages and cultures on the European Day of Languages. Language and cultural institutes, associations, universities and schools will take part in a wide range of events across the EU.
Linguistic diversity is part of our identity and our shared European heritage and learning languages helps build bridges between people and cultures. Moreover, multilingualism boosts personal fulfilment, improves job opportunities and encourages active citizenship.
The European Day of Languages is therefore not only about celebrating the linguistic diversity that exists in the EU, but also about highlighting the benefits of learning languages.
This year’s theme ‘languages unite’, focuses on the importance of learning languages in the interests of inclusion, democracy and social cohesion. You can join the celebrations and learn more about how languages shape inclusion by registering and attending our virtual conference on 30 September. You can also join one of the events around EU countries.
The European Day of Languages was launched in 2001 and is celebrated in the EU and beyond. Last year, to mark the 25th anniversary, the Motivation Manifesto was launched, which explains why motivation is so important in the process of learning languages.
For more information
European Day of Languages 2026
- Publication date
- 26 September 2026
- Author
- Directorate-General for Communication