FRANKFURT AM MAIN – Christine Lagarde, President of the European Central Bank (ECB), has emphasized the critical countdown to Bulgaria’s entry into the euro area. “Only 10 days remain before Bulgaria becomes the 21st member of the euro area,” she stated in a Facebook post. Just over two weeks ago, Lagarde mentioned that there were 25 days left until the country adopts the single currency.
On New Year’s Eve, before 1 January, when Bulgaria officially integrates the euro, the ECB will illuminate the southern façade of its main Frankfurt building to celebrate the country’s entry into the euro area effective 1 January 2026.
The animation will display the message “Welcome, Bulgaria” in all official languages of euro area countries, alongside a showcase of the national design for the 50 cent, 1 euro, and 2 euro coins. This four-minute clip will be projected from 1 to 11 January 2026, featuring visual elements in the EU colors of blue and yellow, arranged in algorithmically generated lines and bars accompanied by the music of “Ode to Joy.” The first showing will occur on New Year’s Day.
Accompanying visuals will include white lines and “bubbles” that present social and cultural facts about Europe, such as the number of countries, languages, and major cities. The visual theme represents “unity in diversity,” highlighting European identity and the significance of Bulgaria’s accession to the euro area.
The animation will also be observable from the air, with the ECB planning to coordinate with airlines operating in Germany and Bulgaria to facilitate aerial filming from departing and arriving flights in Frankfurt. (22 December)
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