Eurovision week is here, and all eyes are on Europe to see which country, artist, and song will be crowned the winner of the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 edition. But Eurovision is more than just a music competition. It is like the Superbowl halftime show on steroids, the Champions League or the Olympics of music, and the European Union presidential election in an America’s/Britain’s Got Talent format. With iconic wins from trans artist Dana International in 1998 and drag queen Conchita Wurst in 2014, it has also become a worldwide pride party and visibility celebration for the LGBTQ+ community.
As a fan of the show for 13 years, I have put together a personal guide to the contest, outlining how to watch it even if you don’t live in Europe, how to vote, and which countries you should keep an eye on.
What is the Eurovision Song Contest?
Eurovision is an annual international song competition where countries from Europe (and a few outside of it) compete by performing original songs live. It’s one of the most-watched non-sports events of the year, with hundreds of millions of viewers from Europe, the US, and Australia tuning in to the final every year. It’s known for its elaborate performances, diverse musical styles, and sometimes controversial voting process and results.
When and where will the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 be held?
The Eurovision Song Contest 2024 will have two semi-finals on May 7 and May 9, with the final on Saturday, May 11. The shows start at 9 PM CEST time. The contest will be held in Malmö, Sweden after Loreen won the 2023 edition.
What makes the Eurovision Song Contest special?
The contest’s drama and rules make it a unique event. The three-minute max song duration, a limit of six people on stage, live vocals, and original songs, among other guidelines, create an exciting atmosphere. From cultural alliances to political tensions and betting odds, there’s more to Eurovision than just the songs themselves.
How to watch the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 in the US:
Peacock, NBC’s live-streaming platform, will be the official source to watch the Eurovision Song Contest in the US. For those outside the US, the contest will be live-streamed on the official YouTube channel. European viewers can tune in to their local broadcasters for live coverage.
Who is competing in the Eurovision Song Contest 2024?
Thirty-seven countries are participating in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest, with five automatic qualifiers to the grand final and participants in two semi-finals vying for a spot in the final. The competition promises diverse performances and musical styles.
In summary, Eurovision is a one-of-a-kind event that combines music, culture, and competition in a way that captivates audiences worldwide. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 is sure to be a must-watch event.