Get Out! Saturday Is European Union Open House Day!

 by Peggy Robin

On the xxth anniversary of the formation of the European Union, you are invited to an Open House -- FREE! -- at each of the embassies of the xx member states. Here is your invitation:

European Union Open House

Saturday, May 9 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

💸 FREE

Our flagship event falls every year on the first Saturday after Europe Day on May 9. This date marks the signing of the Schuman Declaration on May 9, 1950, which established the European Coal and Steel Community, a multinational entity that would eventually become the European Union as we know it today.

The European Union Delegation and 20+ European Union member country embassies in Washington, D.C. celebrate Europe Day by opening our doors to the public so that Americans can catch a glimpse of the European cultures that make up the European Union. Normally you have to cross the Atlantic to visit the EU, but at Open House, you just have to cross the street!

And this year, we are celebrating 250 years of shared history, ideas, and achievements between Europe and the United States. Come and experience the past, present, and future of our relationship through the bonds that unite both sides of the Atlantic. 

Click on THIS LINK to see all of the participating Member State embassies and what they're offering at this year's Open House!

Important Details

Before visiting the EU Delegation and most of the participating embassies, please take note of these helpful guidelines.

• Entrance to the participating buildings is always FREE, but some may be selling food or other items on their premises, so bring some form of payment.
• Always carry official ID with you, as some embassy security requires it before entering their premises.
• Avoid bringing large bags or backpacks, as some embassies have security screenings that require cumbersome bag checks.
• Not all embassies have disability access or stroller parking. In general we discourage bringing large strollers due to the tight spaces inside the buildings.
• Driving and parking is strongly discouraged due to many embassy locations. We encourage participants to take the Metro, bus, scooter, rideshare, or walk.
• For some embassies, you can expect to wait in line. Consider arriving to your favorite embassies earlier in the day.

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The "Get Out!" event of the week is published on the Cleveland Park Listserv and on All Life Is Local on Thursdays.