“On 9 May, Europeans will celebrate Europe Day”. This year marks the 76th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, “which laid the foundations for the European Union as we know it today, and led to an unprecedented era of peace, democracy, prosperity, integration and cooperation across the continent”. This is written in a release issued by the European Union, which sums up the events held by the EU institutions on Europe Day, which falls on May 9th. In 2026, Europe Day also marks two important milestones: 40 years since Portugal and Spain joined the EU, and 40 years since the first official Europe Day celebrations. To mark the occasion, many events will take place across EU Member States and beyond, “bringing together citizens from all walks of life”. The EU institutions will open their doors to visitors, “offering educational activities about their work, as happens every year”. Landmark buildings and monuments across Europe and around the world will be illuminated in the EU colours. “In a rapidly changing world, the EU and its institutions are working to protect democracy, boost prosperity and strengthen security. Europe Day is an opportunity for citizens and their institutions to come together to celebrate their shared community and achievements”.