Montenegro Celebrates Europe Day

 

This year Europe Day was marked by a sea of events throughout Montenegro. Every corner of our country celebrated. To paint the atmosphere it’s best to start from the beginning.

Leading up to Europe Day the Delegation of European Union to Montenegro gifted the citizens of Podgorica a concert by Marija Božović with her band at the Independence Square

Singer Marija Božović on stage. Behind her is the EU flag and sign EUzaCG

Music is the heart of art, and art is the best way to unite us all. That’s why Europe Day Reception was organised in the new building of Montenegrin Academy of Sciences and Arts which symbolises the abundance of Montenegro’s creative talent and the power of education.

Oana Cristina Popa standing on stage in a blue dress. Behind her is a screen and two flags

“Moments like these, rich in talent, and hopeful about Montenegro’s bright future, is what I have loved most during my mandate in this beautiful country,” said Ambassador of European Union to Montenegro Oana Cristina Popa during the reception.

On the eve of 9 May Podgorica was illuminated by the colours of the European Union.

Celebration of Europe Day continued the next day. EU Delegation supported the organisation of a big party at the plateau of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, held on Friday, 10 May.  We enjoyed the rhythm of DJ Rolando (Detroit), Kid Kimi (Belgrade), and DJ Stefan Bulatović Buli (Podgorica).

DJ on stage

On the same day members of the European Integration Committee held a meeting with Ambassadors of the EU Member States in Montenegro on the current state of Montenegro's negotiations with the EU, focusing on meeting the interim criteria in key negotiation Chapters.

 11 May, started with the central event of the Europe Day celebration which took place by the Saint Peter of Cetinje monument at the University Square.

people walking around EU Fair

Alongside the traditional EU Fair where Embassies presented the culture and history of EU countries,  EU programmes and projects in Montenegro and its partners were also presented.  During the central manifestation the Flower Carpet was  officially opened.

This year’s Flower Carpet, covering an area of 274 square meters and featuring 18 thousand seedlings, was inspired by the tradition of Montenegrin craftsmanship. A concert by the Zvjezdice choir, a sand performance inspired by our heroine Super Zvjezdana, and a fashion show with design pieces that incorporate recycled materials were among the many activities organised that day. In addition, the main event included pet-friendly activities, outdoor chess, outdoor painting, virtual reality, and much more.

Man holding a child in the air beneath a tree decorated with lampions

On Sunday, 12 May, citizens of Podgorica had a chance to witness a spectacular Festival of Lights as a gift from the EU Delegation to the city of Podgorica and the University of Montenegro.  We enjoyed an evening of light play and 3D mapping on the Rectorate building, which was also accompanied by electro beats provided by DJ Funkella, alongside Stefan Pavićević (saxophone) and Tanja Bogdanović (electric violin). Along the promenade, three light installations representing the secret life of forests were set up, as well.

European Tour across Montenegrin cities 

The European Tour throughout Montenegro was organised to mark Europe Day by the Ministry of European Affairs and the Delegation of the European Union to Montenegro from 9-17 May. Various activities under the auspices of the EU4ME project and in partnership with nine Montenegrin local governments were organised. Check out the atmosphere from Europe Day celebrations in Petnjica, PljevljaBar, Nikšič, Kolašin, Žabljak, Berane and Mojkovac.