Basel, SWITZERLAND – This year, the 69th Eurovision Song Contest is taking place in Basel, the third-biggest city of Switzerland.
During the week-long event, Basel is expecting more than half a million tourists, and the city has planned a lot of activities for Eurovision fans.
Listen to an audio recording of this story:
Besides “United by Music,” Basel uses the slogan “Welcome Home” – a reference to the fact that the very first Eurovision Song Contest also took place in Switzerland back in 1956. Since then, it’s evolved into a music competition watched by 160 million people, in which 37 countries participate.
This makes it one of the biggest non-sports events in the world.
The whole festival, taking place from May 10 to 17 is revolving around 3 main shows: The first are two semifinals on the 13th and 15th of May. The Grand Final, which takes place May 17th, will be broadcasted live from the St. Jakobshalle arena at 21:00 Central European Time, or 3 p.m. in New York City.
Along with the competition, there are many other things happening.
The so-called “Eurovision Village” at the exhibition center Messe Basel and offers many activities for fans, such as a glambot or a karaoke station.
Additionally, fans can enjoy live performances from former artists such as Remo Forrer ( Switzerland 2022 ) or Conchita Wurst ( Eurovision Winner for Austria 2014 ) and take part in public viewings.
In the Village, it’s possible to buy Eurovision merch, drinks and food.
In the evenings, Basel is offering a EuroClub, in which fans over the age of 18 can enjoy Eurovision Club Classics. They are accompanied by Eurovision stars from past years, such as Ukrainian singer Jerry Heil, who scored third in last year’s edition.
For those who aren’t very party enthusiastic, the EuroCafé offers a relaxed atmosphere. Fans can partake in Eurovision quizzes and other activities.
Outside activities include a “Eurovision Street” located at Steinenvorstadt, where visitors can enjoy regional artists of different genres, ranging from jazz to traditional Swiss music.
On “Eurovision Square” at Barfüsserplatz, an open-air stage will display more local and regional artists. Each day has a different musical theme. “Eurovision Day,” for example, will take place on the 14th of May.
The whole city is activated. For the event week, the city has decided to enable restaurants and bars to remain open for the whole day, while shops will open on Sundays and extend their operating hours, a move that may boost Basel’s economy.
The city is expecting tourism revenue of €35 million, according to EHL Insights, a Swiss business school publication.
One thing is clear: the next days in Basel will be full of interesting events, good vibes and – most importantly – music.
Stay tuned for more coverage of Eurovision from Youth Journalism International.
Florian Gashi is a Junior Reporter with Youth Journalism International.
