Eurovision 2026 host city announced

The host for the the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 has been revealed.

It follows JJ‘s win at this year’s contest in Basel, Switzerland with “Wasted Love,” which earned Austria its third win. The country also hosted in 1967 after Udo Jürgens’ claimed victory a year earlier with “Merci Chérie.” They then hosted a second time in 2015 after Conchita Wurst won in 2014 with “Rise Like A Phoenix.”

Now we know that Eurovision will take place in the Austrian capital of Vienna after being selected by the Austrian broadcaster ORF and the European Broadcasting Union (EBU).

Famous for its world-class music and cultural scene, Vienna now ties in fourth place with Copenhagen, Malmö and Stockholm for hosting Eurovision three times. Only Dublin, London and Luxembourg City have hosted more.

Eurovision 2026 will take place on Saturday 16 May at the Wiener Stadthalle, Austria’s largest indoor arena. The two live Semi-Finals will take place on Tuesday 12 May and also Thursday 14 May. 

As part of the selection process a city’s possible venue, the local infrastructure and accommodation had to be assessed as to whether or not they could handle the many thousands of people that would visit during Eurovision season.

Of course, Eurovision is not just three nights. The event takes over a host city for a full week of activities around the live shows, welcoming people from around the world.

Martin Green CBE, the Director of the Eurovision Song Contest said on Wednesday (20 August), “Vienna’s reputation as one of the most musical cities in the world, and its location in the heart of Europe, makes it the perfect Host City for the 70th Eurovision Song Contest. 

“The city’s exceptional Stadthalle was a great venue for the 60th Contest in 2015 and we’re very much looking forward to welcoming delegations, artists and fans alike back there next May as the world’s largest live music event celebrates 70 glorious years of being United by Music.”

Meanwhile, Vienna’s Mayor Michael Ludwig showed his excitement saying, “We will have a great May together. I am convinced of that.”  

The EBU has also said that information on Eurovision 2026 shows will be available in the near future.

Earlier this week a new design was unveiled for Eurovision 2026 which has divided fans.

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