Part of the wider Festival of Europe Scotland programme, European Communities Day is a free, family-friendly event highlighting the richness and diversity of Edinburgh’s European communities.
The event will run from 11.00am to 4,00pm, and takes place at Out of the Blue Drill Hall in Leith. The event offers a “welcoming space for people of all ages to connect, celebrate, and support European family, friends and neighbours living in Edinburgh”.
Visitors can drop by to enjoy a programme of free activities, including hands-on art workshops led by Polish, Ukrainian, Irish and Scottish artists, creative demonstrations such as birdhouse building and storytelling, and lively family ceilidh dance workshops. Local community groups will also be present, offering opportunities to discover support, cultural initiatives and available to European communities across the city.
Niamh Donnellan, Festival Trustee, said: “European Communities Day is about bringing people together, celebrating the cultures that enrich our city, building connections, and creating space for collaboration and understanding. Europe is not a homogeneous place, and this event embraces an evolving understanding of what it means to be European – beyond geographical borders and aspiring to be united in diversity.”
Although the event is free and drop in, several workshops can be booked in advance, with limited spaces also available on the day.
European Communities Day is made possible with support from National Lottery players and the collaborative efforts of artists, community groups and volunteers dedicated to strengthening cultural ties across Europe.
Event Details: Date: Saturday 16 May 2026 Time: 11.00am – 4.00pm Location: Out of the Blue Drill Hall, Dalmeny Street, Edinburgh Admission: Free (drop-in; some workshops bookable in advance)
https://festivalofeuropescotland.org/event/european-communities-day/
