No matter where it is, Eurovision is always a whole load of chaotic, glitter-doused fun. But this year the song contest is set to be that bit more special. That’s right: it’s happening right here in the UK. Our very own shores are set to play host to this year’s roster of questionable melodies, baffling lyrics and Graham Norton’s gloriously snarky commentary.
The contest was last held in the UK a whopping 25 years ago – and so host city Liverpool is preparing to put on a gloriously all-out affair. Here’s everything we know about this year’s Eurovision, from the dates and venue to how to get tickets.
When is Eurovision 2023?
The 67th Eurovision grand final will take place on May 13, with semi-finals on May 9 and 11.
Where is Eurovision 2023? What country is hosting the competition this year?
After years of landing at the bottom of the rankings, the UK came second last year and will be hosting this year on behalf of the winner, Ukraine.
Liverpool was announced as the host city back in October, beating Glasgow in the final run-off. It’ll be the first time the UK has hosted the contest since 1998, after Katrina and the Waves won first place with ‘Love Shine A Light’ the previous year.
How do I get Eurovision tickets?
The final batch of Eurovision tickets go on sale on Monday, April 24, at 12pm. For more information, check out our full guide to how to get Eurovision 2023 tickets.
Fans of the song contest will be able to buy tickets for the two semi-finals as well as the grand final. Each of the three final stages of the competition will have a family show, a jury show and a live TV show.
Which countries are taking part?
France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK – aka ‘The Big Five’ – automatically qualify for the final. As last year’s winner, Ukraine also has a guaranteed spot. The remaining 31 participating countries will compete across two semi-finals to fill the other 20 places in the final show.
Who’s the UK’s Eurovision entry for 2023?
Following the success of Sam Ryder’s ‘SPACE MAN’ last year, the BBC have been busy working with music management and production company TaP to search for this year’s candidate.
Twenty-five-year-old Mae Muller has been announced as the UK act, and will perform her track ‘I Wrote A Song’ in the contest. Muller has previously supported Little Mix on tour and has worked with artists like Aitch and Sigala.
Who will present the song contest this year?
Ukrainian singer Julia Sanina will co-host Eurovision 2023 with Alesha Dixon and actress Hannah Waddingham. Graham Norton will join them to host the grand final on May 13.
Who are the favourites?
Bookies have landed on Ukraine as the favourite to win this year’s contest. Its entry, ‘Heart of Steel’ by electric duo Tvorchi, apparently has a 21 percent chance of taking first place for the country for a second year. In odds that it could have only dreamt of two years ago, the UK is currently fourth in the polls, with a supposed 7 percent chance of winning. Score!
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