The European Union in the United States

On May 8, 2010, the European Union (EU) Delegation and the Embassies of the 27 EU Member States to the United States will open their doors – in what has become an important annual event for Washington, DC.  Washingtonians will be able to see the Embassies and take a rare glimpse inside the buildings; a unique opportunity to experience the diversity and richness of Europe. The EU Open House will also kick off Europe Week, seven days of Europe-related events all over the United States.

This year's EU Open House takes place on Saturday, May 8, 2010, from 10 am until 4 pm. The theme of the 2010 edition is GREEN EUROPE: GOOD FOR THE ECONOMY AND THE ENVIRONMENT. During the day, each Embassy will showcase the country's own experience with tackling climate change, growing a clean energy economy of the future and making the EU a world leader in reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 20 percent by 2020. The EU Open House will also offer authentic music, dance, food, film, art and fun for the whole family.

This is the fourth year running that the 27 EU Member States and the European Union Delegation have jointly organized an EU Open House to give the general public a rare look inside their embassies and some of the Ambassadors' residences, many of which are among Washington's most interesting architectural treasures. The EU Open House demonstrates the EU's motto of "unity through diversity" by showcasing the range and richness of European society, and is the single biggest celebration of the EU in the world.

A free shuttlebus service will be provided throughout the day (making stops at each EU mission and at Metro stations: Dupont Circle, Foggy Bottom and Van Ness), leaving every five to ten minutes.

EU Open House is followed by Europe Week, a week long celebration of Europe across the United States with concerts, exhibitions, performances and other activities presented by a wide range of consulates, universities, organizations and institutions. From fine art and photography to music and acting, Europe Week will offer an insight into European culture and society, from its rich artistic history to the latest works of its young artists.

May 9 is Europe Day, celebrated annually to mark the signing of the Schuman Declaration in 1950, which laid the basis for what today is the European Union.

The EU missions in Washington, DC, are happy to cooperate with Cultural Tourism DC (www.CulturalTourismDC.org), organizing Around the World Embassy Tour on May 1, another chance to visit some of Washington's many Embassies.

For further information, please visit: www.europe-in-dc.com . 

Further Contact Information:
Press and Public Diplomacy
Delegation of the European Union
2175 K Street, NW
Washington, DC 20037
Press Room 
Tel: 202-862-9552
Fax: 202-429-1766