"In a year that marks the 40th anniversary of Portugal's accession to the European Union (EU), Porto celebrates the values ​​of peace, unity and cooperation that distinguish European identity" and was the "city chosen by the Representation of the European Commission in Portugal to host the celebrations of Europe Day, which is officially celebrated on 9 May," announced the Porto City Council in a statement.

Flag raising

On Europe Day, the city of Porto has prepared a five-kilometre "Europe Run" to the raising of the European Union flag at City Hall, and a gastronomic fair in General Humberto Delgado Square.

At 6 pm, Avenida dos Aliados will host a concert by Katia Guerreiro and the Portuguese Symphonic Band. Exhibition available

From 9 May to 9 June, the exhibition "The Europeanization of the Higher Education System in Portugal - a profound transformation in education and research" will be on display in the atrium of Porto City Hall.

The Porto Fire Brigade Regiment will showcase part of its historical and institutional collection, with special emphasis on elements that demonstrate the unit's participation and connection to the European context.

Among the pieces on display will be trophies from European firefighting manoeuvre competitions, helmets and other equipment representative of fire brigades from different European countries, as well as historical objects that testify to the evolution of rescue and civil protection over time.

The aim of this exhibition is to bring the Porto Fire Brigade Regiment closer to the community, as well as to "celebrate the European values ​​of unity and cooperation and to value the material and symbolic heritage that testifies to the contribution of firefighters to a safer and more supportive Europe".

Thematic conferences

As part of the Europe Day program, Porto will host two conferences on European themes.

The first conference is on the theme "40 Years of Portugal in the EU - The Path to Gender Equality" and is scheduled for 7 May at the Porto City Hall.

The second conference, scheduled for 15 May at the Post Office Building, will be dedicated to the themes "Youth in Europe" and "Challenges and Environmental Transition in Europe: Paths to Sustainability" and will be part of a moment for the signing of the Porto Charter for Europe.

Photographic exhibition

Europe Day also includes a photographic exhibition in the pedestrian underpass of the Campanhã Intermodal Terminal between 1 and 31 May, the projection of the European Union flag on the façade of the City Hall on 8 and 9 May, and guided tours of the municipal nursery.

The municipality promotes cultural and civic activities, highlighting the appreciation of the European legacy, the integration of migrants, and reflection on the city's future in the European context,” reads the Porto City Council website.