Cahul celebrated Families, Community spirit, and Europe
The Palace of Culture “Nicolae Botgros” in Cahul became a vibrant hub of celebration as hundreds of children, parents, and grandparents gathered for the Family Festival—an event marking both International Family Day and Europe Day. Organized by UNICEF and the Cahul Municipality under the “EU4Moldova: Focal Regions” Programme, funded by the European Union, the festival showcased the values of inclusion, solidarity, and community spirit.
More than just an event, the festival was a shared experience—bringing together generations, communities, and institutions to celebrate a common foundation: family.
“Family is a gift from God — it is the environment where values are nurtured to raise true Human Beings. We celebrate family every day. For this Festival, I sincerely thank the EU and UNICEF for their support,” said Nicolae Dandiș, Mayor of Cahul, during the official opening.
Máté Csicsai, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to the Republic of Moldova, and Ioannis Papachristodoulou, Deputy Representative of UNICEF in Moldova, joined local leaders on stage to deliver inspiring messages and visited the thematic areas that animated the festival grounds.
“This festival is a celebration of what is most precious to all of us: our families, our children, and the bonds that hold us together. Investing in children is investing in Moldova’s future — our common European future. That is why the EU supports improving education, building child-friendly, modern social infrastructure and promoting inclusion. Every child deserves to grow up in an environment of care, opportunity, and joy,” said Máté Csicsai, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to the Republic of Moldova.
“Today’s Family Festival is a beautiful expression of what UNICEF believes in: the right of every child to grow up in a safe, loving, inclusive and supportive environment. This right is not a privilege; it is a promise we have made through the Convention on the Rights of the Child. And it is a promise we strive to keep every day through our work on the ground,” said Ioannis Papachristodoulou, Deputy Representative of UNICEF in Moldova.
The thematic areas of the festival offered activities for all ages. From “Family and Art,” where children painted on easels and crafted eco-friendly collages, to “Voices of the Family,” where participants shared heartfelt messages about family and European unity on a symbolic cube-shaped banner. Visitors could also unwind in the “Relaxation and Meditation” zone, take part in traditional games under “Family in Motion”, or explore local craftsmanship at the Handicrafts Fair.
The “EU Projects at Home” photo exhibition offered a visual journey through the real-life impact of EU investments in Cahul, while the “Family Memories” zone offered a joyful space for keepsake photos and shared laughter.
A cultural highlight of the event was the artistic program featuring performances by local ensembles from the Palace of Culture and the “Maria Cebotari” School of Music, blending tradition with modern expression. A lively science show captivated both children and adults.
The festival also encouraged active lifestyles through the EuroSport competitions, including table tennis, checkers, and wrestling. The day ended with the unifying rhythm of the “Family Hora”—a traditional Moldovan dance that brought participants together in a circle of celebration.
Beyond the smiles and celebrations, the Family Festival sent a strong message: strong families build strong communities. By connecting people and strengthening intergenerational bonds, the event echoed the core mission of the “EU4Moldova: Focal Regions” Programme— to foster resilience, well-being, and opportunity. With €23.3 million invested between 2019 and 2025—of which €2.68 million supports UNICEF-led efforts in Cahul and Ungheni—the programme continues to turn European values into everyday realities.
