A day to celebrate Europe
Europe Day, celebrated each year on 9 May, marks the anniversary of the Schuman Declaration — the starting point for what would later become the European Union. It’s a day that reminds us of the values that hold Europe together: peace, unity, democracy, and working together across borders.
In Valga, the celebration continued into Saturday with a lively programme of activities for people of all, a festive concert featuring local performers and a closing show by Karl-Erik Taukar Band.
Meeting young cyclists at the Valga-Valka train station
Before the festivities on the square, our team gave a short introduction to a group of about 50 Estonian and Latvian schoolchildren who were on a bike tour in Valga. We met the group at Valga-Valka Train Station, where we talked about the station’s history and how it was renovated through a project supported by the Interreg Estonia–Latvia Programme during the 2007–2014 period. We also introduced some of the other cooperation projects we’ve supported in Valga–Valka — including the Joint City Centre, the pedestrian street connecting the two towns, and improvements to the Pedeli River recreational area.
It was a great chance to connect with the younger generation and show how European cooperation is visible right in their hometown.
What we offered at the event
At our Estonia–Latvia Programme tent, we welcomed visitors who took part in three fun and engaging activities:
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A cross-border quiz, where people tested their knowledge about Estonia, Latvia, and European cooperation
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The Triple-Lingo Challenge, a crowd favourite where players matched everyday phrases in Estonian, Latvian, and English — especially popular among Estonians keen to try out their Latvian skills
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A photo corner, where families, children, and even a local dance group posed with our cheerful programme characters
All participants received a small prize as a thank-you for joining in.
Valga–Valka is close to our hearts
For our team, visiting Valga–Valka is always special. This twin town is a symbol of cross-border cooperation. Being in Valga gave us a chance to meet people face to face, share what we’ve achieved together, and celebrate the values that connect us. It’s a reminder of why cross-border cooperation matters — and why it works.
Thank you
We’re thankful to everyone who visited our tent, to the organisers of Europe Day in Valga, and to all the partners and fellow participants who helped make the day a success. It was a day full of shared ideas, laughter, and connections — exactly what Europe Day is about.
Take a look at our Facebook photo gallery and relive the moments with us.
