'Europe Day' is set to be celebrated not once but twice this week. Despite having the same names, each date has a completely different meaning.
On 5 May, the 'Europe Day' festivities are celebrated by the Council of Europe.
Not to be confused with the European Council, the Council of Europe is an international organisation set up in 1949 to promote democracy, human rights and the rule of law. In 1964, the Committee of Ministers decided that 'Europe Day' would be celebrated on 5 May to mark the anniversary of the Council of Europe.
Over the last decade, the Council of Europe has participated in several activities in Strasbourg throughout May to celebrate Europe and give the public an insight into its activities.
On 9 May, Europhiles across the European Union (EU) celebrate 'Europe Day' as the anniversary of the Schuman declaration. It refers to a proposal made in 1950 by the then French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman. The declaration laid out the foundation of European cooperation.
This year, the EU's 'Europe Day' marks the 75th anniversary of the Schuman declaration.
The day is set to see multiple landmarks around the globe light up in the EU colours, along with several online and on-site activities across the Member States.
In Brussels, the European institutions will open up their doors on 10 May to give an insight into their daily operations. All the activities are free and do not require prior registration. While the events and tours are set to be informational, some institutions will also feature cultural performances, music, and even a Wheel of Fortune.
