Listen to this article
Estimated 6 minutes
The audio version of this article is generated by AI-based technology. Mispronunciations can occur. We are working with our partners to continually review and improve the results.
Eurovision is equal parts pop contest, television spectacle and international conversation — so legendary it helped launched ABBA and Céline Dion to superstardom.
For 70 years it has delivered cultural visibility for dozens of competing countries, and even inspired a Will Ferrell movie, Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga.
Tens of millions are expected to watch this year’s Grand Final in Vienna on Saturday, where 25 acts representing their home countries will compete for the top prize, including host nation Austria, the automatic qualifiers and 20 acts that advanced from the semi-finals on May 12 and 14.
Typically, the countries that automatically advance include France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom and Spain — known as the “Big Five” because they’re the contest’s biggest financial contributors. However, Spain didn’t send an entry this year because it’s boycotting the show to protest Israel’s participation.
How the contest works
Broadcasters from countries that are members of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) choose a performer and original song to represent them through national finals or internal selections.
This year’s contest mixes polished pop and earnest ballads with bold, theatrical staging, and a political backdrop that has shaped broadcasters’ coverage and fan reaction.
Who is eligible to compete?
While it began as a European TV event, affiliate and associate arrangements have broadened participation. Australia, an associate member of the EBU, has competed for years under a special invitation; Israel and other non-strictly-European entrants have won; and other associate members such as CBC/Radio‑Canada maintain ties to the EBU even if they’re not currently eligible to compete.
Why Vienna?
Austria earned the right to host Eurovision 2026 after its entry won last year. Vienna, a cultural and musical capital, is now the stage for the world’s biggest televised music competition.
How to watch
Eurovision broadcasts globally. European public broadcasters carry the show live, though some have boycotted airing the contest. Participating countries’ public broadcasters air the live shows with local commentary, and the official YouTube channel is offering live access to a broader international audience.
WATCH | The Grand Final live on Saturday:
How voting works
The winner is decided by a 50/50 split between professional national juries and the public televote, including the “Rest of the World” aggregated vote for viewers outside participating countries. Televoters cannot vote for their own country, and voting windows, methods and limits vary by broadcaster. The result is often a split between jury taste and popular voting patterns, influenced at times by diaspora voting and regional blocs.
Who is competing?
The first set of semi-final qualifiers (Tuesday):
The second set of semi-final qualifiers (Thursday):
Acts to watch for
- Sweden — always a contender: This year’s entry is a high-energy dance-pop anthem with a propulsive beat and slick production that includes a dazzling laser show. Sweden has a strong Eurovision track record, having won and hosted seven times.
- Poland — emotional powerhouse: Bringing an impressive power ballad and a standout vocal performance this year is Poland. Minimalist staging and dramatic lighting have propelled this performance to the top of fan polls.
- Israel — provocative pop with a split reaction: This modern piece with sultry vocals blends Hebrew, French and English and has generated fan support and protests in equal measure. Israel typically polls well with televoters and remains one to watch.
- Lithuania — distinctive with a hook: This year’s entry has a unique sound and memorable hook. Moody staging and a campy robot-inspired movement will make it instantly recognizable to televoters, helping it stand out in a crowded lineup.
- Finland — theatrical showstopper: Eurovision rewards spectacle, and Finland’s flair for theatrics makes it highly voteable. This entry puts a violinist front and centre with dramatic lighting and choreography.
- Belgium — upbeat contender: Known for producing recent standout entries, Belgium’s entry this year is an uptempo track that boasts a radio-friendly hook making it poised to capture large shares of the televote.
- Moldova — charismatic act: Bold costumes and cheeky choreography could equal surprise televote gains.
- Serbia — dynamic contender: A cinematic and moody entry with dark costumes, punchy choreography, dramatic lighting and intimate closeups.
- Austria — host-country wildcard: Austria’s energetic entry gets a boost from its home-audience that can elevate a performance. A strong crowd response can matter in the live atmosphere.
What makes a Eurovision winner?
Success usually combines a catchy song, memorable staging, strong live vocals and emotional connection. Juries reward musical craft and originality, while televoters reward spectacle, singalong moments and regional or diaspora ties. Language choices also matter. Many countries now perform in English to broaden appeal, but native-language songs and cultural performances can stand out and win support.
The bottom line
Saturday’s final promises a mix of music, spectacle and international attention. Expect unforgettable performances, sharply divided jury and televote results and at least one performance that dominates the post‑show conversation. Whether you tune in for the music, the drama or the cultural debate, Eurovision remains one of the year’s most talked-about live broadcasts.
The big final takes place on Saturday at 3 p.m. ET, live from the Wiener Stadthalle in Vienna. Check your local listings or Eurovision’s official YouTube channel to tune in.
