The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting editions yet. Celebrating its theme “Welcome Home,” this iconic event will bring together countries across Europe and beyond to showcase their musical talents. Here’s all the essential information you need to know about Eurovision Final 2025, from the dates and location to how to watch and what to expect.
What is Eurovision Song Contest 2025?
Eurovision is an annual international singing competition organized by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). Since its inception in 1956 in Switzerland, Eurovision has grown into a global phenomenon, renowned for its vibrant performances, diverse musical styles, and enthusiastic fanbase. The 2025 edition continues this tradition, emphasizing themes of unity and homecoming.
When is the Eurovision 2025 song contest on TV?
- Date: Saturday, 17 May 2025
- Location: St. Jakobshalle, Basel, Switzerland
- Live Stream anywhere: Watch Live Now
Switzerland is hosting this year’s contest, marking the third time it has hosted Eurovision, following the inaugural event in Lugano (1956) and Lausanne (1989). Basel’s St. Jakobshalle arena will be the vibrant venue for the grand final, bringing together the best acts from semi-finals and the “Big Five”—the nations that contribute the most financial support to Eurovision.
Who Qualifies for the Final?
The final lineup is a mix of automatic qualifiers and semi-final winners:
- The Big Five: United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, France, and Germany — these countries qualify directly for the final due to their financial contributions.
- Switzerland: As the host country, Switzerland also gets an automatic spot.
- Semi-Final Qualifiers: Countries that advance from the semi-finals held on 13 and 15 May include a diverse group of talented artists from across Europe and beyond.
Highlights and Contenders
- Favorites: Swedish band KAJ, a Finnish comedy-music trio, is considered a leading contender with their upbeat “Bara Bada Bastu.” Sweden has a storied history of Eurovision victories, and this could be their eighth win.
- Special Messages: During semi-finals, legendary singer Céline Dion, who won Eurovision for Switzerland in 1988, shared a heartfelt message, adding to the excitement.
- Controversies: Israel’s contestant Yuval Raphael faced protests and booing during her semi-final performance, highlighting the passionate and sometimes contentious nature of Eurovision.
Who Are the Hosts?
- Main Presenters: Graham Norton returns as the host, bringing his signature wit and commentary, despite recent health challenges.
- In Basel: Swiss comedians Hazel Brugger and singer Sandra Studer will host the semi-finals, adding a mix of humor and musical expertise to the broadcast.
How to Watch Eurovision Song Contest Grand final?
In the UK:
- TV: Live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from 8:00 PM BST.
- Radio & Streaming: Listen via BBC Radio 2 and BBC Sounds, hosted by Scott Mills and Rylan Clark.
In Canada and the USA:
- Official Live Stream: The Eurovision Song Contest’s official YouTube channel often streams the grand final live worldwide.
- Eurovision.tv: Check the official site for updates and possible live streams.
- Other Platforms: Service providers like FuboTV or Sling TV may offer access through international packages. Using a VPN can also help if regional restrictions apply.
The Eurovision 2025 running order in full
- Norway | Kyle Alessandro – Lighter
- Luxembourg | Laura Thorn – La Poupée Monte Le Son
- Estonia | Tommy Cash – Espresso Macchiato
- Israel | Yuval Raphael – New Day Will Rise
- Lithuania | Katarsis – Tavo Akys
- Spain | Melody – ESA DIVA
- Ukraine | Ziferblat – Bird of Pray
- United Kingdom | Remember Monday – What The Hell Just Happened?
- Austria | JJ – Wasted Love
- Iceland | VÆB – RÓA
- Latvia | Tautumeitas – Bur Man Laimi
- Netherlands | Claude – C’est La Vie
- Finland | Erika Vikman – ICH KOMME
- Italy | Lucio Corsi | Volevo Essere Un Duro
- Poland | Justyna Steczkowska – GAJA
- Germany | Abor & Tynna – Baller
- Greece | Klavdia – Asteromáta
- Armenia | PARG – SURVIVOR
- Switzerland | Zoë Më – Voyage
- Malta | Miriana Conte – SERVING
- Portugal | NAPA – Deslocado
- Denmark | Sissal – Hallucination
- Sweden | KAJ – Bara Bada Bastu
- France | Louane – maman
- San Marino | Gabry Ponte – Tutta L’Italia
- Albania | Shkodra Elektronike – Zjerm
What to Expect
This year’s contest promises a vibrant show filled with captivating performances, stunning staging, and the celebration of musical diversity. The theme “Welcome Home” underscores the universal appeal of music and the sense of unity among participating nations. Expect memorable acts, emotional moments, and perhaps a few surprises from the winners.
