From art exhibitions and concerts to sports events, literary evenings and discussions on Europe, Europe Day in Kosovo this year brought people together throughout May in a month-long celebration of culture, community, and shared European values.

Embracing local artistic expression and shared European ideals through culture, the European Union in Kosovo collaborated with internationally renowned Kosovo artist Jakup Ferri on the visual identity of Europe Day 2026. It reflected themes of celebration and togetherness, bringing a strong local dimension to this year’s activities.

As per tradition, the European Union in Kosovo welcomed institutional representatives, civil society actors, media, the business community, religious leaders, and members of the diplomatic corps to the annual Europe Day Reception. In her welcoming remarks, Acting Head of the European Union in Kosovo Eva Palatova highlighted the enduring partnership between the EU and Kosovo.

“Ever since 1999, the European Union has stood alongside Kosovo. Today, the EU remains Kosovo’s strongest and most reliable partner and the largest provider of financial assistance. Together, we are investing in opportunities, reforms and people, because Kosovo’s future is in Europe,” Palatova said.

The reception also marked the presentation of the European of the Year Award to Shqipe Neziri Vela in recognition of her contribution to advancing gender equality, women’s empowerment, and sustainable energy governance in Kosovo and beyond.

The European Union in Kosovo and Chopin Piano Fest once again partnered to mark Europe Day through the festival’s opening concert. The evening featured the acclaimed Italian ensemble Duo Gazzana, composed of sisters Natascia Gazzana (violin) and Raffaella Gazzana (piano), who delighted audiences with a performance celebrating the richness and diversity of Europe’s musical heritage.

That same day, Zahir Pajaziti Square in Pristina transformed into the Team Europe Fair, where citizens met representatives of EU Member States, EU programmes, and EU-supported businesses, organisations, and initiatives in Kosovo. Visitors explored interactive stands, took part in quizzes, and learned more about EU projects improving everyday life across the country. Families and children enjoyed a colourful programme of music, games, and entertainment, while in Mitrovica North residents gathered for a day of activities designed for all generations.

The celebrations continued into the evening with concerts that brought together audiences of all ages. In Pristina, Edona Reshitaj, Jehona Sopi, and Vesa Luma performed live, while in Mitrovica North the stage featured Rinato and the legendary Leb i Sol.

Europe Day activities extended well beyond 9 May. Throughout the month, the European Union in Kosovo organised discussions with high school students across Kosovo, bringing EU Member States ambassadors and representatives to schools in Ferizaj/Uroševac, Gjakovë/Đakovica, Gjilan/Gnjilane, Peja/Peć, and Prizren. These conversations offered young people an opportunity to engage directly with European diplomats and discuss the opportunities and challenges of Kosovo’s EU path.

The European Union in Kosovo also organised a wide range of community events, from quiz nights and karaoke evenings to film screenings.
A multilingual literary evening, co-organised by EU member state embassies with the Embassy of Montenegro, celebrated the richness of European literature through the works of authors including Franz Kafka, Ismail Kadare, Italo Calvino, and Danilo Kiš.

Sport and outdoor activities also formed an important part of the celebrations. In Obiliq/Obilić, a friendly girls’ rugby match brought together participants from different communities.

In Rahovec/Orahovac, cyclists explored the Wine Route through vineyards and landscapes shaped by EU-supported development projects. The month concluded in Rugovë/Rugovo with a guided hike along EU-supported mountain trails, highlighting the importance of sustainable tourism, and preserving Kosovo’s natural heritage.