NATO Day is commemorated in capitals across the Alliance every year on 4 April, the anniversary of the signing of NATO's founding document, the Washington Treaty, in 1949. For seventy-four years, the Alliance has remained steadfast in its resolve to protect its citizens, defend every inch of its territory, and safeguard freedom and democracy. NATO Day 2023 is particularly historic, with Finland set to become the thirty-first member of the Alliance.
In Brussels, the anniversary is being marked at several monuments throughout the city. In Parc du Cinquantenaire, the NATO flag is flying under the Memorial Arch, and the Montgomery Circle Fountain is illuminated in NATO blue. One of the best known symbols of Belgium, the iconic Manneken Pis statue, is wearing a special NATO Day costume to join the celebrations.
Other Allies are also marking the anniversary with public events including concerts, the illumination of buildings in NATO blue, and public discussions on the importance of NATO. In London, even Larry, the Cabinet Cat at 10 Downing Street, is celebrating by wearing a "We are NATO" collar.
