Europe Day is the symbol of unity, peace and readiness to create and preserve shared values.

Closely cooperating with the European Union, Armenia is also committed to upholding and advancing these values.

Each year in May, the EU Delegation to Armenia organizes various events both in the regions of Armenia and in Yerevan. This year, the Europe Day celebrations were held under the theme “EU-Armenia: Cultural Bridge.” The celebrations kicked off on May 6 in the Shirak region, in Gyumri.

The events in Gyumri began with a meeting between the EU Ambassador to Armenia, Vassilis Maragos, and the Governor of Shirak, Davit Arushanyan, highlighting the EU’s continued partnership and support for the region’s development.

To bring together young people from Shirak and EU volunteers, “EuroClub Gyumri” launched EuroQuest, a vibrant cultural event held outdoors in an interactive competition format.

The goal was to explore and celebrate Europe’s rich cultural diversity. From discovering European languages and traditions to completing creative challenges, participants built intercultural bridges between Armenia and the European Union.

EuroQuest was made possible thanks to the active involvement of international volunteers from the NGO YIC, including members of the short-term H.O.P.E. team of the European Solidarity Corps, who came from Italy, France, Poland, and Ukraine.

As part of the “EU-Armenia: Cultural Bridge” celebrations, the theatrical performance “This is Europe” was staged on May 6 at the Vardan Ajemian State Drama Theatre in Gyumri.

Following successful performances in Belgium, Hendrik Vos and Frans Grapperhaus brought their thought-provoking show to the Armenian stage, taking the audience on a cultural journey in search of an answer to one of the most profound questions: What is Europe, or who is Europe?

On May 8, the Europe Day celebrations in Gavar officially began with a meeting between EU Ambassador Vassilis Maragos and Gegharkunik Governor Karen Sargsyan.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed key areas of cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the continued collaboration between the European Union and the region.

On May 8, “This is Europe” was performed at the Levon Kalantaryan Drama Theatre in Gavar. Through their powerful performance, Hendrik Vos and Frans Grapperhaus shed light on the history of Europe’s formation, taking the Armenian audience on a cultural journey as they explored one of the most essential questions: What is Europe, or who is Europe?

On May 9, a solo piano concert by Hayk Melikyan took place at the Komitas Museum-Institute Concert Hall under the title “21st Century European Music: Dedicated to Europe Day.”

The music showcased the rich heritage of both European and Armenian cultures, highlighting the power of music to build strong bridges between people.

On May 10, the Delegation of the European Union to Armenia hosted a major public event in Yerevan’s Freedom Square to celebrate Europe Day. This year’s celebration highlighted the shared values between the EU and Armenia, as well as the vital role of rich and diverse cultures in building strong bilateral relations.

Hundreds of people gathered in Freedom Square to mark this day of unity and peace. The event opened with a welcome speech by EU Ambassador to Armenia, Vassilis Maragos.

“Today we celebrate our cultural ties, from the music of Komitas to the architecture of Tamanyan, while also looking toward the future. EU-Armenia relations have never been closer. Together, we are building a more resilient, peaceful, and reform-oriented future.”

Deputy Foreign Minister of Armenia, Robert Abisoghomonyan, also addressed the audience, emphasizing that the EU is Armenia’s key partner on its path toward democracy. He noted that Europe Day serves as yet another opportunity to reaffirm the Armenian Government’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the European Union.

At the heart of the event was a vibrant information fair, featuring representatives of EU-funded programmes from across Armenia, both from the regions and Yerevan, as well as embassies of EU Member States. With great energy and enthusiasm, they showcased their countries’ unique cultures. Meanwhile, the stage was alive with a true cultural celebration.

The audience was taken on a journey through Europe thanks to a series of distinctive musical and dance performances by various EU Member States. Highlights included performances by the “Poloniada” choir of the Polish community in Armenia (Polonia Union), students of the “Luse” Centre, and Slovakia’s captivating presentation of traditional songs and dances. The Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Armenia, H.E. Petr Piruncik, together with his friends, performed jazz standards and Czech folk songs with a jazz twist. Romania was also represented with traditional dances and a mime performance.

Later in the evening, the bands “Uru,” “Dagh,” and “Tyezerk” took to the stage, taking the audience on a musical journey, from dreamy, cosmic harmonies to the dynamic world of alternative rock. Their performances left a lasting impression and filled the square with energy and emotion. Together, the information fair and concert programme created yet another bridge, a space for mutual cultural discovery between Armenia and the European Union.

Europe Day celebrations in Yerevan concluded at the State Youth Theatre with a performance of “This is Europe”. In their signature style, Hendrik Vos and Frans Grapperhaus offered a fresh perspective on the story of Europe’s formation and integration, blending thoughtful insight with subtle, intellectual humour. Following the performance, guests were invited to the official reception.

The European Union and Armenia continue to steadily deepen their partnership, and Europe Day served as yet another opportunity to reaffirm their shared commitment to building a future grounded in reform and cooperation.

Culture holds a unique power, the magic of bringing people together.

From May 24 to 30, the grand hall of Yerevan’s Cinema House hosted screenings of seven acclaimed European films, many of which had already made their mark at international film festivals and even received prestigious awards. The curated selection included: “Emilia Perez”, “Smyrna”, “The End”, “Rita”, “The Great Journey”, “Continental 25”, and “Maria”.

Over the course of seven days, the festival drew full audiences, with each screening offering viewers powerful emotions and unforgettable moments. The chosen films captivated the audience with their artistic depth, stirring themes, and cinematic excellence, making this European film showcase a true celebration of storytelling.

Let’s relive the highlights of Europe Day in Armenia together.

*On May 9, 1950, Robert Schuman presented his proposal to create an organised Europe necessary for peaceful relations and development. Today, May 9 has become a European symbol (Europe Day) which, along with the flag, the anthem, the motto, and the single currency (the euro), identifies the political entity of the European Union. Europe Day is the occasion for activities and festivities that bring Europe closer to its citizens and neighbours.