European Day of Parks

European Parks Day is celebrated on 24 May 2026, promoted by the EUROPARC Federation, as a day dedicated to highlighting the value of protected areas in Europe and their role in biodiversity conservation. The date commemorates the creation of the first European national parks in Sweden in 1909, the origin of a network that today encompasses thousands of natural areas across the continent.

Under the slogan “Connected by nature”, the 2026 edition emphasises the importance of ecological connectivity, highlighting the need to maintain and restore links between habitats and landscapes to promote the resilience of ecosystems. The approach also highlights collaboration between regions and the active role of society in protecting the natural environment, beyond the boundaries of protected areas.

As in previous years, the day will be accompanied by activities organised in national and nature parks across Europe, such as guided walks, workshops and educational events. These initiatives aim to strengthen the bond between citizens and nature, whilst highlighting the joint work of protected areas in building a more sustainable model.

Check out the activities here.