I’ll be honest — every year I wait for Eurovision like it’s Christmas. It doesn’t matter which country is hosting, who’s topping the betting charts, or what drama is unfolding backstage. It’s all just part of this wild, glorious, ridiculous, and unforgettable show that’s impossible not to love.
This year, all eyes turn to Basel, Switzerland, where the Grand Final of Eurovision 2025 will take place on Saturday, May 17, 2025. Before that, contestants will compete in two thrilling semi-finals held on Tuesday, May 13 and Thursday, May 15.
The 69th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest will bring together 37 countries, all dreaming of taking the crown from last year’s winner, Nemo — also from Switzerland. But only 26 countries will make it to the Grand Final.
When and Where?
- First Semi-Final: Tuesday, May 13, 2025
- Second Semi-Final: Thursday, May 15, 2025
- Grand Final: Saturday, May 17, 2025
- Venue: St. Jakobshalle Arena, Basel, Switzerland
(Note: While early sources referenced Geneva and Palexpo, the confirmed venue is now St. Jakobshalle in Basel.)
How It Works This Year
- 31 countries will compete in the two semi-finals.
- 6 countries — the “Big Five” (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK) plus host country Switzerland — automatically qualify for the Grand Final.
- These 6 countries will still perform live during the semi-finals to present their entries to the audience.
- A total of 26 acts will perform in the Grand Final.
5 Fun Facts About Eurovision 2025
- Basel becomes the Eurovision capital for the first time ever.
Switzerland hosted last in 1989 — and now returns with a whole new vibe. - AI on stage?
One of the songs this year includes lyrics co-written by artificial intelligence — a first for Eurovision. - The Eurovision Train!
Switzerland launched a themed train connecting major cities with music, trivia, and even onboard performances. - Sustainability at the core
The stage setup uses mostly renewable energy, setting new eco-friendly standards for the contest. - The return of Turkey?
Eurovision fans were thrilled as Turkey returns to the contest after over a decade away.
Semi-Final Lineups: Who’s Performing?
First Semi-Final – Tuesday, May 13, 2025
Some of the standout acts include:
- 🇮🇸 Iceland: VÆB – “RÓA”
- 🇸🇮 Slovenia: Klemen – “How Much Time Do We Have Left”
- 🇺🇦 Ukraine: Ziferblat – “Птица Молитва”
- 🇸🇪 Sweden: KAJ – “Bara Bada Bastu”
- 🇭🇷 Croatia: Marko Bošnjak – “Poison Cake”
- 🇨🇾 Cyprus: Тео Эван – “Shh”
…and more from Poland, Estonia, Portugal, Norway, Belgium, Azerbaijan, San Marino, Albania, Netherlands, and host country Switzerland.
Second Semi-Final – Thursday, May 15, 2025
Look out for:
- 🇦🇺 Australia: Go-Jo – “Milkshake Man”
- 🇦🇲 Armenia: PARG – “SURVIVOR”
- 🇬🇧 UK: Remember Monday – “What The Hell Just Happened?”
- 🇫🇷 France: Luan – “Maman”
- 🇮🇱 Israel: Yuval Raphael – “New Day Will Rise”
- 🇫🇮 Finland: Erika Vikman – “ICH KOMME”
…and more from Montenegro, Ireland, Latvia, Austria, Greece, Lithuania, Malta, Georgia, Denmark, Czech Republic, Luxembourg, Serbia, and Germany.
Who Will Win? Does It Even Matter?
Everyone has their favorites — I’m personally rooting for Iceland with their hauntingly atmospheric song. But let’s be honest, Eurovision is more about the moment than the medal. It’s about cheering, laughing, maybe even crying — and definitely tweeting your reactions at lightning speed.
Watching Together Makes It Better
There’s something magical about watching Eurovision with others — whether it’s a living room full of snacks or a Discord voice chat full of chaos. This year, I did both. We made scorecards, judged outfits, and placed friendly bets. Honestly? It felt like a little holiday in itself.
Final Thoughts
Eurovision 2025 reminds us that the world still has time for joy, creativity, and just the right amount of chaos. From wild techno-folk mashups to heartfelt ballads, it’s a celebration of what makes Europe (and its neighbors) beautifully weird.
See you at Eurovision 2026. But first — let’s find out who wins Basel.
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