Shortcut to Europe: EU Embassies' Open House and Europe Week

WASHINGTON, April 15, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --On May 7, 2011, the Delegation of the European Union to the United States and the Embassies of the 27 EU Member States to the United States will open their doors to the Washington public during the EU Open House Day. This annual event will also kick off Europe Week, which means seven days of Europe-related events all over the United States.

Each embassy will be open to the public from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 7, 2011, offering a rare look inside the buildings and providing a unique opportunity to experience the country's cultural heritage and national traditions. Free shuttle bus service will be provided throughout the day with stops at embassies and select Metro stations. The EU Delegation and the Embassies will offer authentic music, dance, food, film, art and fun for the whole family.

"This is the fifth year running that the 27 European Union member countries and the EU Delegation work together to present this fantastic event which draws thousands of visitors," said Ambassador Joao Vale de Almeida, Head of the Delegation of the European Union to the U.S." The EU Embassies' Open House, the single biggest celebration of the EU in the world, demonstrates the EU's motto of 'unity through diversity' by showcasing the range and richness of European society."

EU Embassies' Open House is followed by Europe Week, a week long celebration of Europe across the United States with concerts, exhibitions, performances, and other activities presented by a wide range of consulates, universities, organizations and institutions. From fine art and photography to music and acting, Europe Week will offer an insight into European culture and society, from its rich artistic history to the latest works of its young artists.

May 9 is Europe Day, celebrated annually to mark the signing of the Schuman Declaration in 1950, which laid the basis for what today is the European Union.

For further information, please visit: www.europe-in-dc.com.

Facebook event page: http://www.facebook.com/EUintheUS#!/EUintheUS?sk=events.

SOURCE Delegation of the European Union to the United States