The 2026 Eurovision Song Contest will take place on May 16 in Vienna, Austria, marking the event’s 70th edition. This year promises a star-studded lineup and innovative accessibility features.
The Grand Final will see 25 countries compete for the coveted title, while the Semi-Finals are scheduled for May 12 and May 14. The UK act LOOK MUM NO COMPUTER is set to perform, adding to the excitement surrounding this milestone event.
Key details:
- The Grand Final starts at 8 PM, local time.
- The opening act will feature last year’s winner, JJ.
- The UK is one of the pre-qualified “Big Four” countries.
- A total of 35 countries will participate in the contest.
- Voting in the UK will be online only, costing 15 pence per vote.
This year’s coverage by the BBC will be produced by BBC Studios. Viewers can expect to see familiar faces like Graham Norton hosting the Grand Final, while Rylan Clark and Angela Scanlon will guide audiences through the Semi-Finals. Graham Norton expressed his excitement: “It feels really special to be back, gently guiding viewers through the Grand Final in this very momentous 70th anniversary year.” Rylan Clark added, “It’s the biggest show on the planet. Being part of anything this big is something younger me could never have imagined.” Angela Scanlon described it as “joining the greatest party on earth – equal parts thrilling and terrifying!”
Accessibility features:
Live Audio Description will be available during broadcasts. and British Sign Language interpretation will also be offered.
The BBC aims to provide a treasure trove of content for audiences to enjoy as they celebrate this significant anniversary. Kalpna Patel-Knight from BBC stated, “The BBC continues to be the home of Eurovision in the UK, and this year we’re once again offering a treasure trove of brilliant content for audiences to enjoy as we celebrate the 70th anniversary of the contest across our platforms.” With a growing audience—last year’s Grand Final attracted an average of 7.1 million viewers, including 1.2 million aged 16-34—the excitement is palpable.
This year’s event promises not just entertainment but also an inclusive experience for all viewers. As preparations ramp up in Vienna, fans eagerly await what is sure to be a memorable celebration of music and culture.
