Get ready for glitter, glamour, and high-octave drama – Vienna is back in the Eurovision spotlight!
Austria’s capital has been officially confirmed as the host city for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, set to dazzle audiences at the iconic Wiener Stadthalle in May 2026. The announcement was made Wednesday morning by ORF, Austria’s public broadcaster and the proud organiser of what remains the world’s largest live music event.
This grand return comes hot on the heels of Austrian sensation JJ, aka Johannes Pietsch, who stormed to victory in Basel this past spring with his electrifying performance of "Wasted Love".
The song, a breathtaking fusion of operatic power, multi-octave vocals, and pulsating techno beats, captivated both juries and viewers, securing Austria’s third Eurovision win in history – following in the legendary footsteps of Conchita Wurst (2014) and Udo Jürgens (1966).
Vienna: A city of music, majesty, and May magic
After a rigorous selection process, ORF declared Vienna the clear winner over rival bid city Innsbruck, praising the capital for its superior infrastructure, logistical readiness, and economic viability.
“After thorough examination and based on a unanimous jury assessment, ORF has concluded that Vienna’s bid is the most attractive – not only in terms of logistics, but also in economic and cultural impact,” said ORF Director General Roland Weissmann.
This will mark Vienna’s third time hosting the contest – a city already steeped in musical heritage, from Mozart and Beethoven to the Vienna State Opera, where JJ himself performs. The last time Vienna hosted was in 2015, following Conchita Wurst’s historic win an event that drew global attention and transformed the city into a rainbow-hued celebration of diversity and artistry.
A mayor’s promise: Eurovision for everyone
Vienna’s Mayor Michael Ludwig took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his delight: “As mayor of Vienna, I am naturally delighted that Vienna has prevailed and will once again represent Austria next year. I am convinced that we will have a wonderful May together.”
And in a move music fans will cheer, Ludwig confirmed that the city will allocate €22.6 million (approx. $26.3 million) to the event – with a special focus on free, public festivities. From fan zones to open-air concerts, the aim is clear: Eurovision in Vienna will be for everyone, regardless of budget.
“As mayor, it’s very important to me that cultural events are accessible to all — no matter the size of their wallet,” Ludwig added.
The road to the grand finale: May 16, 2026
The contest will unfold over three dazzling nights: Semi-Final 1 on Tuesday, May 12, 2026; Semi-Final 2 on Thursday, May 14, 2026; and the Grand Finale on Saturday, May 16, 2026.
Expect pyrotechnics, political voting, last-minute stage malfunctions, and at least one unforgettable national entry — because, after all, it’s Eurovision.
More than just a song contest
Since its debut in 1956, Eurovision has done more than just crown a pop star, it has united, divided, shocked, and inspired Europe. Last year’s contest drew a staggering 160 million viewers worldwide, making it a global phenomenon that blends music, politics, fashion, and pure camp spectacle.
And now, with Vienna once again at the heart of it all, anticipation is already building. Will we see another operatic triumph? A Balkan bop? A Nordic synthwave surprise?
One thing’s for sure: Austria knows how to throw a party — and 2026 is going to be unforgettable.