Get ready for the ultimate music extravaganza, Eurovision 2026! This year's edition promises to be a spectacle like no other, and you won't want to miss a single moment. But before you start singing along, here's everything you need to know about watching and voting in this iconic event.
When and Where to Watch
Mark your calendars for the following dates and times (all in CEST):
- First Semi-Final: Tuesday, May 12, 21:00
- Second Semi-Final: Thursday, May 14, 21:00
- Grand Final: Saturday, May 16, 21:00
The excitement begins with the semi-finals, where 15 countries will battle it out to secure their spot in the grand finale. The top 10 will advance, and the rest will bid farewell, but not before leaving us with unforgettable performances.
How to Watch the Magic
Eurovision is a global phenomenon, and you can tune in from anywhere in the world. Here's how:
- Live TV: Local broadcasters will air the semi-finals and grand final live, often with commentary in your native language. Don't miss out on the local flavor!
- Online Streaming: You can also catch the action on broadcasters' websites and on-demand services. It's a convenient option for those who want to watch at their own pace.
- International Broadcasts: Many countries worldwide will be showing the contest, so you can join the global Eurovision party no matter where you are.
Voting: A Global Decision
Now, let's talk about the heart of Eurovision - voting! Here's how you can make your voice heard:
Voting in Semi-Finals
- Participating Countries: If your country is in the competition, you can only vote for the semi-final featuring your nation's performance. For instance, Germany, France, Italy, the UK, and Austria will be in specific semi-finals.
- Voting Process: Instructions will be displayed on-screen during the broadcast, and you can also find them at esc.vote. Voting opens after the last song and allows up to 20 votes, with around 18 minutes to cast them.
- Rest of the World: Non-participating countries can still support their favorites through the 'Rest of the World' vote, which helps determine the top 10 in the grand final.
Voting in the Grand Final
- Participating Countries: Voting opens just before the first song and remains open throughout the performances, with a 40-minute window after the last song to cast your votes. You can even use the My Scoreboard feature on the official app to share your favorites.
- Non-Participating Countries: Similar to the semi-finals, voting for non-participating viewers opens at midnight on the day of the grand final and closes briefly during the live show. Get ready to vote!
A Global Celebration
Eurovision is more than just a singing contest; it's a celebration of culture, diversity, and unity. It's a chance for countries to showcase their talent and creativity, and for viewers to discover new music and connect with people from different backgrounds.
So, get ready to vote, sing along, and immerse yourself in the magic of Eurovision 2026! It's a night (or two or three) you won't forget. Remember, every vote counts, and every performance matters. Let the music unite us!
