About Us

The idea for this annual festival was initiated by Mark Lazarowicz, former MP for Edinburgh North and Leith. He was soon joined by Niamh Donnellan, who, like Mark, has been actively involved in European organisations for many years. With the support and collaboration of several partner organisations, the first festival took place in May 2024.

Centred around Europe Day, the festival programme aims to highlight the tangible benefits that shared European values have brought to Scotland, the UK and Europe; explore how cooperation can be renewed in practical ways; and reimagine how the UK, Scotland and Europe can work together through creativity and collaboration to build a more peaceful, sustainable and positive future. Events are organised by a wide range of partner organisations, alongside the charity itself.

The 2026 festival was delivered by a dedicated team of volunteers, students and two new trustees, whose commitment and enthusiasm helped make the third festival our most ambitious and successful yet, with a programme offering something for everyone.