Celebrate Europe Day in a European city

Celebrate Europe Day in a European city where you can truly feel the celebration:

1. Brussels, Belgium – the heart that opens up

Brussels doesn’t do parades — it does “open house”.

May 8, from 20:00: Grand Place turns into a light show stage with a blue and gold DJ set. No tickets needed — just come with friends.

May 9, 10:00-18:00: The EU Council and other institutions open their doors. Walk in, ask questions, and take photos where decisions are made.

Bonus: public debate at the city hall on May 9 — Europe is discussed, not lectured about.

Why fly here: it’s the only day of the year when “bureaucratic Brussels” turns into a festival district.

2. Strasbourg, France – step inside the European Parliament

On May 9, Strasbourg invites you not just for a tour, but to join the table.

The European Parliament hosts a full Open Day: enter the hemicycle, talk directly with political groups, and join youth workshops. The entire city becomes a “European village” with music and Alsatian street food.

Why fly here: it’s the closest contact with European democracy — no filters, no protocol.

3. Venice, Italy – a whole month of Europe

Venice turns Europe Day into an art festival.

“Festa dell’Europa” runs from May 4 to May 31 under the theme “Uno spazio di democrazia”. The highlight is on May 9:

• the official opening of the 2026 Art Biennale (open until November 22)
• the concert “Les chants des forêts” at Auditorium M9 at 18:00
• free installations and exhibitions across the city

Why fly here: you get two celebrations in one — Europe Day and the world’s largest contemporary art exhibition.

4. Budapest, Hungary – a festival in the square, not in a hall

Hungarians bring Europe to the streets, at Szervita tér.

May 9: the morning starts with a European run, followed by an open-air stage all day: Ukrainian artists, Irish tap dance, live concerts by Buda Pop Duo, Felefant and Hiperkarma, plus an EU quiz with prizes. Everything is free, central, and just 5 minutes from the Danube.

Why fly here: it’s the most relaxed way to celebrate — craft beer, live music, and zero queues at institutions.

Find Europe Day flights on zbor.md — compare prices and grab the best seats before the celebrations begin.