A quick beginner's guide to Eurovision

First time watching Eurovision Song Contest? It's easy to get hooked! So much drama, glamour, theatrics, wind machines and pyrotechnics - Eurovision really does have something for everyone!

Whether you are a casual viewer or you really are a first timer, we have put together some key things you need to know heading into Eurovision tomorrow morning!

The basics

Eurovision’s full name is the Eurovision Song Contest (sometimes shortened to ESC), which started way back in 1956. This is the 70th anniversary of the Contest.

Each year, countries that are members of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), who organise and manage the contest, can elect to enter an artist and song into the contest. SBS Australia is an associate member which is why we take part.

Songs can be in any genre and in any language.

Entry songs can only be three minutes in length and must be original – no previous releases or covers.

There can only be six people on stage (singers, backing vocals, dancers etc).

Vocals are live but backing vocals can be pre-recorded.

The country that wins, hosts the following year, if possible. When Ukraine won in 2022, the United Kingdom hosted for them as they finished in second place.

Eurovision is held in May each year over one week of two semi-finals and a Grand Final. This actually includes multiple shows - nine in total: three jury shows; three daytime shows; three live shows (where the results are announced).

There are only 25 spots in the Grand Final., There are two semi-finals where 10 songs are chosen from each to advance to the final. This can result in broken hearts if your country or favourite doesn't qualify!

FAQ time

Can I vote?

Yes, you can - no matter where you live. If you do not live in Australia or are not one of the participating countries in Europe, you can take part of the Round the World vote. You cannot vote for your own country. Voting is online or via the app.

Voting in the Grand Final starts after the last song is performed and is open for approximately 40 minutes. There are constant recaps throughout the voting period.

How does the winner get chosen?

Winner is chosen via 50% public vote (that is you) and 50% professional juries in each country who assess the song based on quality of song, vocal performance and staging amongst other things.

Countries are awarded points from 1 - 8, 10 and 12 from each nation.

The voting sequence can be very entertaining and very nail biting!

Where can I watch and when?

No matter where it's held in Europe, the show always starts at 8pm Central European Time. This means an early start for us Aussies but we are a devoted bunch so plan a watch party and get some breakfast snacks (maybe even a little champagne), set your alarms and enjoy the show!

SBS broadcasts Eurovision live and will also have a replay on Sunday night. Danny Estrin and Courtney Act are the commentators. Depending on where you live - you can also go to one of the many "watch parties" around the country.

What is the big four/five?

These are countries who automatically qualify for the Grand Final as their contribution entry fee is significantly higher. These countries are Italy, United Kingdom, France and Germany. Spain is usually part of the big five but is not part of the Contest in 2026.

How do countries choose their songs?

Many songs are chosen internally by the broadcaster of that country, but most countries choose their entrant via a national selection. These are essentially mini-Eurovisions and can range anywhere from five weeks of semi-finals and then a final (Lithuania for example) or just the one show of songs (Finland).

Two of the most famous and long running national selections are Sanremo Music Festival (Italy) and Melodifestivalen (Sweden). Superfans will follow all of these national finals, which means you are essentially in Eurovision mode for about six months of the year - dedication!

How can I attend the Eurovision Song Contest?

Not going to lie, getting tickets isn't an easy feat. Like any big event, tickets are gobbled up rather quickly, so the best way is to join through your Eurovision fan club who hold ticket ballots - gotta be in to win it! Attending a Eurovision is SO MUCH FUN - you are destined to have new friends in no time!

Who have been the most successful countries at Eurovision?

It's a tie between Sweden and Ireland. Though not as successful these days, Ireland were a powerhouse in the 1990s winning four times in five years.

What would happen should Australia win?

It is unlikely it would be hosted in Australia, BUT if it was, it would be the 8pm European time start for us (so yes - early!)

There has been talk previously of United Kingdom or German hosting or us, or may second place would, so now let's not get ahead of ourselves here.. (but fingers crossed!)

Who is in the Eurovision 2026 Grand Final this year?

Who is our entrant this year?

Delta Goodrem is our entrant this year and will sing Eclipse. Australia is currently second in the odds to win!

If you want to know more about Australia's long history with Eurovision, check this article out.

For continued updates on all the Eurovision Song Contest news follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Bluesky Threads and TikTok. All links at: https://linktr.ee/aussievisionnet