Embracing Unity: a vibrant celebration of Europe Day in Moldova
Europe Day 2023 in Moldova was celebrated with great enthusiasm and excitement, beginning with heartfelt messages of solidarity from the EU Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova, Jānis Mažeiks, and the Ambassadors of EU Member States. The festivities extended beyond a single day, encompassing multiple events, including the European Village in Chișinău on 10 May, the European Village in Leova on 20 May, and the captivating European Film and Culture Festival. These events aimed to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Europe, promote unity in diversity, and highlight the EU’s support for Moldova.
European Village in Chișinău:
The European Village event, held in Chișinău on 10 May, served as the grand opener for the Europe Day celebrations. This dynamic and interactive event attracted around 8,000 visitors, bringing together people of all ages to revel in the essence of European values, culture, and traditions. Families, friends, and individuals alike had the perfect opportunity to engage in a wide range of activities tailored to their interests, while also learning about the EU-funded projects implemented throughout the country.
One of the main attractions of the event was the “Team Europe” Alley, where visitors had the chance to delve into the diverse cultures and traditions of European Union member states. Embassies’ representatives provided captivating insights into their respective nations’ unique customs, offering a delightful blend of cultural experiences and gastronomic delights.
The “EU-Moldova: Stronger Together” Alley showcased the impact of EU assistance on Moldova, presenting various EU-funded projects that have positively influenced the country’s development. Visitors had the opportunity to engage with individuals involved in these projects, interact with beneficiaries, and learn about the innovative ideas, services, and products that have been implemented over the years.
The event also featured a dedicated Youth pavilion, where young participants were engaged in a quiz focused on financial education and EU assistance to Moldova. Energy experts also had the opportunity to exchange insights and explore innovative solutions for sustainability and environmental protection. Clusters from Cahul and Ungheni regions were honoured for their remarkable contributions to regional economic development at a grants awarding ceremony.
The European Village event ensured that children were not left out, offering a dedicated Children Pavilion filled with interactive games, drawing spaces, a captivating magic show, and more. Meanwhile, older visitors enjoyed the ambiance of the “Golden Age” Area, with dances and music.
The event culminated in a spectacular evening concert featuring renowned national bands, including the inte rnationally acclaimed Zdob si Zdub. The concert served as a fantastic finale, bringing together the diverse cultures of Europe through music and dance. The evening concluded with the live transmission of the Eurovision 2023 Grand Final, adding an extra layer of excitement to the festivities.
European Village in Leova:
Following the success of the European Village event in Chișinău, the celebration extended to the southern region of Moldova with the European Village in Leova on 20 May. With approximately 3,000 visitors, the event celebrated the cultural richness and diversity of Europe, while also highlighting the EU’s assistance to Moldova. It offered engaging activities for visitors of all ages, ensuring that everyone could be a part of the festivities. The event concluded with a remarkable evening concert featuring the renowned Moldovan band Zdob și Zdub and Advahov brothers, leaving a lasting impression on all attendees.
European Film and Culture Festival:
From 11 to 31 May, the European Film and Culture Festival captivated audiences across Moldova. The festival featured a selection of 9 documentary and artistic films generously provided by EU member state embassies. Screenings took place in 12 localities across Moldova, allowing people to immerse themselves in European cinema and explore the diverse cultural offerings from European partners.
Europe Day celebrations in Moldova showcased the strong bond between the European Union and the country, while celebrating the cultural richness and diversity of Europe. These events provided a platform for people of all ages to come together, celebrate, and foster a deeper appreciation for the values and traditions that bind Europe.