May 18: International Museum Day
The International Council of Museums (ICOM) has celebrated Museum Day since 1977, on or around May 18. On the occasion of the celebration, the Greek branch of ICOM organizes various cultural events throughout Greece during the month of May. For 2017, the International Council of Museums (ICOM) has chosen the theme "Museums and contested histories: Saying the unspeakable in museums.”
The objective of International Museum Day is to raise awareness of the fact that, “Museums are an important means of cultural exchange, enrichment of cultures and development of mutual understanding, cooperation and peace among peoples.” Organized on or around 18 May each year, the events and activities planned to celebrate International Museum Day can last a day, a weekend or a whole week.
Participation in International Museum Day is growing among museums all over the world. In 2016, more than 35,000 museums participated in the event in some 145 countries..
On May 18, entry to all Greek museums is free.