The Night of Museums is a European event initiated by the French Ministry of Culture and Communication in 2005. The event is sponsored by the Council of Europe, UNESCO and the International Council of Museums (ICOM). The Night of the Museums is the nocturnal pendant of the International Day of Museums, which takes place on May 18. Romania has been a participant since the first edition, and the number of museums involved has increased annually. The National Network of Museums in Romania is an official partner of the event at the international level and coordinates its organization in Romania and its promotion.