The European Maritime Day celebrations in Piraeus, this year’s host city of the biggest maritime history and culture event in Europe, kick off with the two-day conference at the Athens Concert Hall on Thursday, May 28, and Friday, May 29. Maritime industry representatives, decision-makers, ministers, commissioners, CEOs and experts delegates from across Europe and beyond are arriving to Piraeus port to attend the “Gateways to Maritime Growth” two-days conference on the vital role of maritime communities in the future of the Blue economy, discuss opportunities and challenges that coasts and seas present, share their experiences and develop new synergies. Within the context of the annual maritime tribute celebrations the Municipality of Piraeus has also organized some 60 other events set to take place this weekend, May 30-31, spreading a festive atmosphere across the city. Exhibitions, guided tours, concerts, theatrical performances, traditional dances, film screenings, competitions, cycling events, marine sports activities, open sailing and trips around the cost and a load other surprises await visitors, such as the big street party that will take place in the Trouba area of Piraeus on Saturday May 30 and the street performance “Red Lanterns” by acclaimed choreographer Konstantinos Rigos. During the celebrations, local restaurants will be offering special menus with traditional seafood dishes and wine, while visitors will also have the chance to explore Piraeus’ archaeological sites and industrial landmarks as well as enjoy free admission tours to the Maritime Museum of Greece and the Hellenic Naval Academy. Lectures, maritime industry job fairs, marine documentaries, educational events, photography shows featuring maritime treasures and aiming to raise awareness of the importance of the sea on a local, regional and global scale, enrich the impressive schedule of events.