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 2026
THANK YOU for an incredible European Day of Parks. The amount of events and communication initiatives were positively overwhelming.
EDoP 2026 – Connected by Nature
All of us need connections, to grow, live and learn. Our Protected Areas are no different. Healthy ecosystems don’t exist in isolation: they thrive only when ecological connections are in place — wildlife corridors, linked habitats, and landscapes that allow species to move, adapt and flourish.
These connections often go beyond the borders of any single Protected Area. To nurture nature, we need to think across boundaries, restore linkages, build ecological networks, and create partnerships that unite people, communities, and nature.
In 2026, for the European Day of Parks, we invited the Protected Area community to celebrate and strengthen these lifelines on and around the 24th of May.
Discover all events + the Outreach & Acitivities Report!
EDoP 2026 – What was happening across Europe?
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.