A piece of Europe in the heart of Canada

On Sunday June 15^th, the EU Delegation to Canada, in collaboration with the diplomatic missions of the EU Member States, presented the fourth edition of the EU Cultural Fair in the Ottawa Region. 

Taking place in the gardens of the Canadian Museum of History, the EU Cultural Fair offered visitors breathtaking views: the colourful tapestry of EU countries stalls against the of the Ottawa River, with the Parliament of Canada just across the water. 

For one day, the EU Cultural Fair showed Canadians that the EU is in the heart of Canada, right across the body of water, closer than ever.

A journey across Europe without jetlag

More than 4,000 visitors embarked on a cultural voyage through the European Union. Equipped with mock ‘EU passports’ from the EU Delegation, visitors travelled across the Member State booths and collected countries stamps along their journey. At the end of their trips, travellers were rewarded with a special EU-themed luggage tag, a small token to inspire future travels to the real Schengen Area.

European Union, 2025

Discovering the Diversity of European Culture 

Each country stall presented visitors with their national treasures and unique cultural traits. Visitors got to learn more about each EU country and to engage in fun activities. Children built castles at the Danish LEGO station, while others tried their hand at Mölkky, a Finnish lawn game. Whether young or old, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Throughout the day, the fair featured live cultural performances representing EU countries. Canadians swayed to the rhythms of Irish Gaelic dance, watched spirited flamenco displays, and listened to the soaring harmonies of Estonian choirs.

Mapping future travels to Europe

To wrap up their visit, Canadians were invited to pin their dream European destinations on a large EU map at the Delegation’s booth and to share what Europe means to them. Pin after pin, the delegation got to bring Europe one step closer to Canada, and to meet thousands of new friends of the EU. 

European Union, 2025

Looking Ahead to 2026

With thousands of enthusiastic visitors and vibrant displays of culture, food, and friendship, the fourth edition of the EU Cultural Fair was a tremendous success. The EU Delegation to Canada is already preparing for an exciting fifth edition in 2026 which will also mark 50 years of the EU’s diplomatic presence in Canada. It will be a year of celebration as we honour five decades of partnership with our Canadian friends.