Eurovision Song Contest Returns Basel With 200 Million Viewers

The 69th Eurovision Song Contest returns to Basel, Switzerland, on May 17, 2025, marking a full-circle moment since the contest's inception in Lugano in 1956. Eurovision remains a significant cultural event, attracting over 200 million viewers worldwide and serving as a platform for musical talent, political expression, and LGBTQ+ celebration. Historically, the contest has launched the careers of global superstars such as ABBA, whose 1974 victory with 'Waterloo' became a defining pop milestone, and other memorable acts like Bucks Fizz and Olivia Newton-John. This year's competition features 26 countries with diverse performances ranging from energetic pop to emotional ballads, noted for its characteristic blend of glitter, political intrigue, and spectacle. Advertisements tied to Eurovision celebrate its legacy and cultural impact, highlighting iconic moments and promoting the host city and event sponsors. Despite its sometimes controversial voting system and theatricality, Eurovision continues to unify a broad audience through music and shared cultural moments.