Eurovision Song Contest 2025 - A Historic Return to Switzerland
The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 will be held in Basel, Switzerland, marking a significant event in the history of both Eurovision and the host nation. The Grand Final will take place on May 10, 2025, with two semi-finals leading up to the event. Switzerland’s hosting duties come after Remo Forrer’s win at Eurovision 2024 with the song "Watergun," which brought the trophy back to Switzerland for the first time since 1988. This will be the third time Switzerland has hosted the contest, following the inaugural competition in 1956 and the event in 1989.
Venue and Preparations in Basel
Basel, a city known for its cultural richness and position as a hub of art and history, is preparing to welcome thousands of fans from across Europe and beyond. The contest will be held at St. Jakobshalle, a major multi-purpose arena that has hosted numerous large-scale events. Its central location in Europe, alongside its proximity to major airports and transportation networks, makes Basel a prime venue for an international event of this magnitude.
The contest is expected to bring a significant boost to Basel's tourism and economy. The city's historical landmarks, including its medieval old town and the beautiful banks of the River Rhine, are sure to captivate visitors. Fans will also enjoy a variety of cultural events and fan zones, which will pop up across the city in the lead-up to the contest.
The Format: Semi-Finals and Final
As is tradition, Eurovision 2025 will consist of three shows:
- Semi-Final 1 (May 6, 2025)
- Semi-Final 2 (May 8, 2025)
- Grand Final (May 10, 2025)
In each semi-final, approximately 16 to 18 countries will compete for a spot in the Grand Final, with only the top ten from each semi-final advancing. The "Big Five" (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom) automatically qualify for the final, alongside host nation Switzerland.
Eurovision: A Brief History
The Eurovision Song Contest was founded in 1956 by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), with the goal of uniting Europe through music after the devastation of World War II. Inspired by Italy's Sanremo Music Festival, Eurovision allowed participating countries to submit original songs and compete in a live televised event. The contest has since grown from its original seven participants to include over 40 countries, expanding beyond Europe to include nations such as Israel and Australia.
Over the years, Eurovision has become a platform for celebrating diverse cultures, showcasing musical talent, and promoting unity. Its slogan, “United by Music,” highlights the contest’s mission of fostering connections across borders.
Memorable Eurovision Moments and Winners
Throughout its history, Eurovision has given rise to several iconic artists and memorable moments. Some of the most famous winners include:
- ABBA (Sweden, 1974) with “Waterloo,” who went on to become one of the most successful bands in the world.
- Celine Dion (Switzerland, 1988) who won for Switzerland with the song “Ne partez pas sans moi” and later became a global superstar.
- Loreen (Sweden, 2012 and 2023), whose songs “Euphoria” and "Tattoo" are considered among the greatest Eurovision entries of all time.
Switzerland holds a special place in Eurovision history, not only as the birthplace of the contest but also as the winner of the very first competition in 1956, thanks to Lys Assia and her song “Refrain.”
Eurovision's Modern Appeal
In recent years, Eurovision has evolved into a massive global phenomenon, with millions of viewers tuning in from across the world. It’s not just about the music; the show has become famous for its extravagant performances, elaborate staging, and dramatic voting sequences. The introduction of public televoting in 1997 added a new level of excitement, giving the audience the power to influence the outcome alongside a jury vote.
The Eurovision community is known for its inclusivity and celebration of diversity. Many fans see the contest as a beacon of acceptance, especially for the LGBTQ+ community, and artists who challenge social norms have often found a welcoming stage at Eurovision.
Expectations for Eurovision 2025
As Eurovision returns to Switzerland for the first time in decades, expectations are high for a spectacular show. With Basel’s stunning backdrop and state-of-the-art venue, the 2025 edition promises to blend the contest’s storied history with modern technology and performance art.
Countries from across Europe, and beyond, will be vying for the coveted crystal microphone trophy, and the event is sure to deliver unforgettable performances and moments. The question remains: will Switzerland manage to defend its title, or will another nation rise to claim victory in Basel?
Whatever the outcome, Eurovision 2025 is set to be a grand celebration of music, culture, and unity, carrying forward the tradition of a contest that has brought joy to millions for nearly 70 years.
