Preparations are complete for the first semifinal of the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, which begins Tuesday, May 12 [1].

The event marks a significant milestone for the competition as it celebrates 70 years of history [5]. As one of the most-watched non-sporting events globally, the contest serves as a primary cultural touchstone for European diplomacy and artistic exchange.

This year's festivities take place in Vienna, Austria, at the Wiener Stadthalle [3]. This marks the third time Vienna has hosted the contest, having previously served as the host city in 1967 and 2015 [4].

The competition structure begins with the first semifinal on May 12 [1]. This will be followed by a second semifinal on May 14 [2]. The event will culminate in the grand final on May 16 [3].

Organizers have finalized the schedule and venue arrangements to accommodate the international delegations. Among the expected performances is Sal Da Vinci, who is scheduled to appear during the opening stages of the competition [1].

Technical crews and stage designers have completed the installation of the production set at the Wiener Stadthalle. The venue is now ready to receive the competing nations for the first round of voting and performances. The event continues its tradition of combining national pride with a shared continental stage, a format that has evolved over seven decades of broadcasting.

“Vienna is hosting the contest for the third time, following previous events in 1967 and 2015.”

The return of the contest to Vienna reinforces the city's capacity to host large-scale international productions. By celebrating its 70th anniversary in a city with a deep musical heritage and a history of hosting the event, the European Broadcasting Union emphasizes continuity and stability in the competition's format despite the evolving political landscape of the participating nations.