eurovision song contest 2025

Get Ready, Australia! Eurovision 2025 is Coming to Basel

The Eurovision Song Contest, that dazzling spectacle of music, glitter, and national pride, is gearing up for its 69th edition in Basel, Switzerland, in May 2025. Following Switzerland's victory in 2024, the city is preparing to host fans from across the globe for a week of unforgettable performances and nail-biting voting. For Aussies who love tuning in, even with the time difference, here's what you need to know.

Recent Updates: What's Happening Now?

The semi-finals are locked in for Tuesday, May 13th and Thursday, May 15th, with the grand final taking place on Saturday, May 17th, all at Basel's St Jakobshalle indoor arena. Mark your calendars and prepare for some late-night (or early morning!) viewing.

The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) has already confirmed which countries made it through the first semi-final, setting the stage for a thrilling grand final. While the full list of participants and their songs is available, the official album featuring all 37 entries is set to be available for pre-order.

The BBC has also announced how UK viewers can tune into the semi-finals via TV, BBC iPlayer, Radio, and BBC Sounds, offering comprehensive coverage of the event.

Eurovision: A Cultural Phenomenon

Eurovision is more than just a song contest; it's a cultural phenomenon that brings together diverse nations in a celebration of music and unity. Since its inception in 1956, the contest has evolved from a modest gathering of European countries to a global event with millions of viewers worldwide.

Australia's participation in Eurovision is a testament to the contest's global appeal. Despite being geographically distant from Europe, Australia has been a dedicated fan base for decades. In 2015, Australia was invited to participate as a special guest, and the enthusiastic reception led to a permanent spot in the competition.

How Does Voting Work?

One of the most exciting aspects of Eurovision is the voting system. Each participating country awards points based on the performances, with the top ten songs receiving points ranging from 1 to 12. A separate jury vote also contributes to the final score.

While viewers in participating countries can vote for their favourite songs, they cannot vote for their own country. This rule ensures fairness and prevents bloc voting. Australia, of course, participates in the voting process, adding its voice to the overall outcome. For those in Ireland, The Irish Times provides a detailed explanation of the voting process, which is largely consistent across participating nations.

Immediate Effects: Buzz Builds for Basel

The buzz surrounding Eurovision 2025 is already building. Fan forums are buzzing with predictions, song analyses, and discussions about potential winners. The release of the official album will further fuel the excitement, giving fans a chance to familiarize themselves with the entries.

For Basel, hosting Eurovision represents a significant opportunity to showcase the city's culture and hospitality to a global audience. The event is expected to generate substantial economic benefits, attracting tourists and boosting local businesses.

Favourites and Fan Theories

While it's still early days, some acts are already generating significant buzz. Sweden's 2025 entry, KAJ, is considered a favourite with their song "Bara Bada Bastu." Interestingly, KAJ is the first Finnish act to represent Sweden, and their song is the first Swedish-language entry from the country since 1998. This unique combination has captured the attention of Eurovision fans.

Another act generating buzz is Dutch singer Claude with his soulful ballad "C'est La Vie." Claude hopes to bring victory to the Netherlands after the country's 2024 contestant faced controversy.

It's important to note that these are just early predictions, and the Eurovision landscape can change quickly. Unexpected entries often emerge as frontrunners, and the live performances can significantly impact the voting outcome.

Australia's Eurovision Journey

Australia's participation in Eurovision has been marked by both success and memorable moments. Since joining the competition, Australia has consistently delivered strong performances, showcasing the country's diverse musical talent.

While Australia is yet to win the contest, the country has achieved impressive results, including a second-place finish in 2016. Australian artists have embraced the Eurovision spirit, delivering energetic and creative performances that have resonated with audiences worldwide.

How to Watch Eurovision from Australia

For Aussies eager to catch all the Eurovision action, the time difference can be a challenge. The semi-finals and grand final typically air in the early hours of the morning Australian time. However, the ABC broadcasts the shows, making it accessible to viewers across the country.

Check your local ABC listings for broadcast times and replay options. Many fans also choose to stream the contest online, allowing them to watch live or catch up on demand.

Future Outlook: What to Expect in Basel

As Eurovision 2025 approaches, anticipation is building for what promises to be another spectacular event. Basel is preparing to welcome thousands of fans from around the world, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.

The contest itself is expected to feature a diverse range of musical styles, from pop anthems to heartfelt ballads. The performances will be visually stunning, with elaborate staging, costumes, and special effects.

Of course, the voting process will be as unpredictable as ever, with surprises and upsets likely along the way. Ultimately, Eurovision 2025 will be a celebration of music, diversity, and international cooperation.

Get Involved!

Whether you're a die-hard Eurovision fan or a curious newcomer, there are plenty of ways to get involved in the excitement. Follow the official Eurovision channels for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and exclusive interviews.

Join online communities to discuss your favourite songs, share your predictions, and connect with fellow fans. And don't forget to tune in to the semi-finals and grand final to experience the magic of Eurovision firsthand.

Unverified Information and Speculation

While official sources provide a solid foundation for understanding Eurovision 2025, some information remains unverified. For example, details about specific staging elements and performance routines are typically kept under wraps until the live shows.

Rumours and speculation often circulate about potential surprise appearances and collaborations. While these rumours can add to the excitement, it's important to treat them with caution until confirmed by official sources.

A Night of Power Pop, Outrageous Outfits, and (Inevitably) Protests

As London prepares to host the Eurovision Song Contest, it is expected a week of power pop, outrageous outfits — and, inevitably, protests — that culminates in the final of the 69th Eurovision Song Contest on Saturday night.

In Conclusion: Eurovision Fever is Coming!

Eurovision 2025 is set to be another unforgettable event, bringing together nations in a celebration of music and culture. For Australians, tuning in to Eurovision is a tradition, a chance to experience the excitement and spectacle of this global phenomenon.

So, get ready to mark your calendars, prepare your snacks, and gather your friends for a night of Eurovision magic. Basel awaits!