European Day of Languages logo

What is the European Day of Languages?

The European Day of Languages (EDL), a Council of Europe initiative, is held annually on the 26 September to celebrate language and cultural diversity. The Day was first celebrated in 2001, the European Year of Languages and involves more people every year.

Read the Council of Europe's message about European Day of Languages 2008.

The European Day of Languages is:

  • A Europe-wide celebration of all the world’s languages
  • A day to kick-start language learning
  • A chance to raise awareness about the value of language skills

 

writingPupils take part in European Day of Languages 2008

EDL aims to:

  • To alert the public to the importance of language learning
  • To increase awareness and appreciation of all languages
  • To encourage lifelong language learning

Most events and activities are held on the day itself, but some people extend the celebrations over two or three days and others even have a whole week of language-related events. Whether you decide on a single activity or a series of events, there are a range of resources to help you make the day special.

flagPupils carry flags in a special EDL 2008 assembly

EDL is celebrated throughout the UK and in 45 countries across Europe. The Council of Europe, who co-ordinate the Day at European level, are keen for the Day to be as decentralised as possible (although they do produce European resources) and we're hoping you will either organise or attend an event yourself. If you are planning any kind of language or culture-related event, why not do it on the European Day of Languages?

View the Council of Europe Events calendar to see what took place on the European Day of Languages 2008. If you are planning a languages celebration of your own then don't forget to add your own event, even if it is not open to the public.

Visit our FAQ to find out more.

lingabatThe LinguaBat Challenge

If you want to get in touch with EDL team, email us at edl@cilt.org.uk