Eurovision Song Contest 2026
The Eurovision Song Contest 2026 was the 70th edition of the annual European music competition.
The Eurovision Song Contest 2026 was the 70th edition of the annual competition, held in Vienna, Austria. Bulgaria won with the song 'Bangaranga' performed by Dara.
What it is
Eurovision 2026 was organised by the European Broadcasting Union and hosted by Austrian broadcaster ORF. The event followed Austria's victory in 2025 and marked the third time Vienna staged the contest. The live shows took place over three nights at the Wiener Stadthalle.
Key details
Thirty-five countries participated — the lowest number since semi-finals were introduced in 2004. Moldova, Romania, and Bulgaria returned after absences. The two semi-finals were held on 12 and 14 May 2026, with the grand final on 16 May. Presenters included Victoria Swarovski and Michael Ostrowski.
The winner and rule changes
Bulgaria won the contest with 'Bangaranga' performed by DARA. The 2026 edition used revised rules: the semi-finals returned to a 50% jury vote and the number of jurors increased from five to seven. The final featured 25 acts, including automatic qualifiers from the host country and major broadcasters.
In short
- 70th edition of Eurovision, hosted in Vienna, Austria
- Only 35 countries took part — the fewest since 2004
- Bulgaria won with 'Bangaranga' by Dara
- Semi-finals reintroduced 50% jury voting and seven jurors
Canada does not participate in Eurovision, but Canadian readers may know the contest through international music coverage and broadcast commentary.
Quick questions
Where and when did Eurovision 2026 take place?
Who won Eurovision 2026?
What voting changes were introduced in 2026?
Sources
- Eurovision — https://www.eurovision.com/eurovision-song-contest/vienna-2026/Supports: Official host city, edition, participating broadcasters, and rule changes for Eurovision 2026.
- Eurovision — https://www.eurovision.com/tickets/Supports: Official dates, venue, host broadcaster, and confirmation that Vienna hosted the 70th contest.
- EurovisionWorld — https://eurovisionworld.com/eurovision/2026Supports: Winner, host city, venue, dates, participant count, and broadcast/voting details.
- Eurovision — https://www.eurovision.com/stories/eurovision-week-all-you-need-to-know-about-vienna-2026/Supports: Show dates and official Eurovision week schedule in Vienna.