🎤 Eurovision 2025: What to Expect from This Year’s Spectacle in Switzerland

The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most vibrant and dynamic editions in recent memory. Set in the picturesque city of Basel, Switzerland, the contest will unfold at the St. Jakobshalle arena, with a capacity crowd of over 12,000 expected to witness the musical extravaganza live. The Grand Final takes place on Saturday, May 17, preceded by the Semi-Finals on Tuesday, May 13, and Thursday, May 15.

🇨🇭 Switzerland Takes the Spotlight

This year marks Switzerland’s third time hosting Eurovision, having previously done so in 1956—the contest’s very first edition—and again in 1989. The 2025 event comes in the wake of Swiss artist Nemo’s victory in 2024, which catapulted the alpine nation back into the spotlight of European pop culture.

The staging for 2025 is being helmed by renowned designer Florian Wieder, known for his dramatic and immersive stage concepts. Inspired by Switzerland’s mountainous terrain and multilingual culture, the stage features a bold central runway that stretches into the audience, a sweeping LED arch, and cutting-edge lighting effects promising a visually stunning show.

🌟 Hosts and Presenters

The show will be hosted by a trio of Swiss stars: comedian Hazel Brugger, seasoned Eurovision presenter Sandra Studer, and internationally-known TV personality Michelle Hunziker. Together, they promise to blend humor, elegance, and Eurovision spirit in guiding the show.

🌍 Who’s Performing?

A total of 37 countries will be competing in Eurovision 2025. Among the favorites to win are:

• Sweden’s KAJ, whose quirky techno hit “Bara Bada Bastu” has captivated fans and surged in betting odds.

• Austria’s JJ, bringing an opera-pop fusion with “Wasted Love.”

• France’s Louane, performing “Maman”, a heartfelt ballad drawing critical praise.

Spain’s Melody is also generating buzz with “Esa Diva”, climbing in the odds after a well-received promotional tour. The UK’s Remember Monday, a country-pop trio, are representing with “What the Hell Just Happened?”, offering a fresh twist on the British entry.

🏳️‍🌈 A Contest Not Without Controversy

Eurovision 2025 hasn’t been immune to debate. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has instituted a rule limiting on-stage displays to national flags only, effectively banning Pride flags and other political or symbolic imagery. The decision has drawn criticism, especially after last year’s controversy where Swiss winner Nemo secretly brought a nonbinary flag to the stage.

Advocates and fans have called for more inclusive policies, arguing that Eurovision has long been a haven for LGBTQ+ visibility and cultural diversity.

📺 Where to Watch

Fans across Europe and the globe can catch all the Eurovision 2025 action live on their respective national broadcasters. For international audiences, the Eurovision YouTube channel will provide live streams of all shows, complete with multilingual commentary options.