On the weekend of 14 and 15 September, CERN will again be throwing its doors wide open to welcome thousands of visitors from around the world coming to explore the future with us. We expect in the region of 30 to 40 thousand people each day, which is a sign of how excited people are about what we do and the exciting scientific future that lies ahead.

Open Days have become a key part of CERN’s outreach. They allow us to showcase our passion for research, to show our openness and diversity in all its forms – so important in today’s world – and to enjoy the simple pleasure of interacting with visitors from all corners of the globe who share our curiosity.

Our guests come to CERN to see our fantastic installations, but it’s the people they meet here that they will remember the most. That’s why our Open Days volunteers are so essential. Over 2700 of you have signed up, which is just overwhelming. Many colleagues from across the Laboratory have been working on preparing the Open Days for months, taking time from already very busy schedules. I’d like to thank you all for the enthusiasm and the commitment that make the Open Days so special. 

You will not regret it – being part of the CERN Open Days is an opportunity that only comes around every few years, and it’s an experience that everyone who does it treasures. It will doubtless leave you exhausted, and with a head full of indelible memories. If you’ve volunteered, you are an ambassador for science, for CERN, and for the values that this institution holds dear and that will sustain its future, for the unique spirit that is CERN. It’s a vitally important role, but the most important thing of all is that you enjoy yourselves. 

Have a great weekend!