So long as you intend to travel within the EU, so not including Turkey for example, the passport is valid until its last day. If you want to travel outside the EU, you would be better to ensure you renew in advance.

Hi, I'm planning on going away in beginning of September 2010, and my passport expires December 2010. I know in some countries you need to have 'X' amount of months left on your passport, but not sure about Europe where I'll be going.

Will I need to get a new one or not?

Thans for looking :)