European Day of Parks celebrated by Youngsters at the Cairngorms National Park, Scotland, in 2018 ©Konatsu Hagita
The European Day of Parks (EDoP) on the 24th of May, is a commemorative day for Protected Areas across Europe that was launched in 1999 by the EUROPARC Federation to celebrate Protected Areas throughout Europe. It celebrates the creation of the 1st National Parks in Europe – a set of nine parks created in Sweden in 1909.
European Day of Parks 2025
A Park is never just a Park
In 2025, we invite the EUROPARC network to explore the vital partnerships that sustain healthy nature, both within and beyond Protected Areas.
Protected Areas are more than just boundaries on a map—they are living, thriving systems where everything is connected. From the plants and animals that call them home to the people who live in, care for and shape these landscapes, everyone has a role in this shared “partnership of life.”
But the health of these areas doesn’t stop at the borders of Protected Areas. What happens beyond their boundaries deeply influences the ecosystems within. So, how can we work together to create the best outcomes for both nature and people, ensuring the resilience of these special places in a changing world?
These are the themes we invite you to explore during the 2025 European Day of Parks!
More information will follow soon.
About the European Day of Parks
The European Day of Parks is the most important awareness raising event for Protected Areas in Europe. Taking place annually on 24th May, Parks and Protected Areas come together across Europe to celebrate their successes and declare the value and benefits of Europe’s Protected Areas to communities, decision-makers and the wider public.
The multiplier effect of all events organised, as well as the outreach on (social) media, ensures that the importance of Protected Areas is drawn to the attention of a large audience. In turn, this stimulates social acceptance and can generate political support.
EDoP is organised and promoted by the EUROPARC Federation.
Check here to see the previous editions.
The European Day of Parks is made possible through funding of the LIFE Programme. Views and opinions do not necessarily reflect that of the European Commission or of CINEA.