Open Day of the European Institutions

The day sees all European Institutions around Brussels welcome Europe’s citizens.

The Berlaymont, a symbol of the EU side of Brussels, will use numerous fun and understandable methods to explain EU policies and their meaning. Dancing to live music [12 KB] and diverse attractions will also be on offer.

The European Parliament will open its doors from 10am to 6 pm with the event officially opened at 12am by Parliament's first Vice-President, Madame Kratsa-Tsagaropoulou, and by Queen Paola of Belgium. At the official ceremony Madame Kratsa-Tsagaropoulou and Queen Paola will sign a giant copy of the Treaty of Rome and visit the different exhibitions put on for the occasion.

A historical banner that retraces the stages of the construction of Europe will be hung on the windows of the new Parliament building by the new Luxembourg train station, formerly called the Leopold station, which will play host to the Exhibition "Buildings for Europe: Brussels Metamorphosis".

In the hemicycle chamber, visitors could also participate in an all-day debate on the EU's past achievements and future challenges, including climate change and energy policies.

Some 150 information stands, including those of the 27 EU countries and the political groups of the Parliament, will welcome all visitors at a "citizens’" village, running from Place du Luxembourg, Parc Léopold, Place Jean Rey and Rue Froissart to Rond-point Schuman. A number of activities, including language courses, art shows and much more will involve young people on this day, which will be dedicated to all the EU’s inhabitants.

Concerts, debates and other events will provide entertainment for visitors of all ages. The open day is a traditional event, successfully hosted each year in the Capital of Europe.