A large open-air party, in the heart of Villa Borghese, to celebrate Europe as a concrete experience made of rights, culture, travel, young people, research and participation. In fact, next May 9th, on the occasion of Europe Day 2026, the Terrazza del Pincio in Rome will be transformed into a huge European village open to all: from 11am to 8pm, including talks, music, artistic performances, interactive activities and meetings with scientists, researchers and protagonists from the world of culture and sport.
The initiative is promoted by the Representation of the European Commission in Italy together with the Liaison Office of the European Parliament in Italy and aims above all to involve younger people, explaining what it means to be a European citizen today.
The day will be opened by the Vice President of the European Commission Raffaele Fitto, but the program promises much more than an institutional event: guests from the world of entertainment, journalism and sport will take turns on the central stage to talk about Erasmus, international mobility, European projects, inclusion, youth violence and shared values.
A real “European Village” will also come to life around the stage, with stands and activities organized by some of the main scientific entities and institutions of the European Union. There will be, among others, the Joint Research Center of the European Commission (JRC), EFSA, the European Space Agency (ESA-ESRIN), the European Training Foundation and the Erasmus+ Agencies.
A rare opportunity to meet scientists, experts and researchers up close and discover how Europe concretely works on food security, space, education, innovation and sustainability.
There is also space for children, with a kids area dedicated to entertainment, games and readings organized by the Libraries of Roma Capitale – Europe Direct Rome. And there will be no shortage of convivial moments and solidarity snacks thanks to the collaboration with local social projects.
The most spectacular moment will come at the end of the day: citizens and participants will together unfurl what is announced as the largest European flag in Europe, in a collective gesture with a strong symbolic value.
In times in which Europe is often described only through crises, borders and geopolitical tensions, Pincio Day instead tries to bring it back among people, in the squares and in daily relationships. With a simple message: Europe is not just an institution, but a common space to live.
HERE you can find more information on the other activities planned for Europe Day.
