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Burgas to host Eurovision Song Contest 2027

musicAug 13, 202646152

The European Broadcasting Union and Bulgarian National Television have selected Burgas to host the 71st Eurovision Song Contest at Arena Burgas, with Semi-Final 1 on 11 May, Semi-Final 2 on 13 May and the Grand Final on 15 May 2027. Bulgaria won the right to host after singer Dara’s victory in May, and the EBU said Burgas beat other bids including Sofia. The EBU announced rule changes for 2027 that bar broadcasters from hosting if their state is involved in an “armed conflict” or “sensitive geopolitical situation” and raise the minimum competing artist age from 16 to 18. The EBU will use an independent security body to assess potentially difficult situations and, if a winning member is ruled ineligible, will appoint an alternative host broadcaster to assume all hosting rights and liabilities. The rule change follows a wave of controversy and boycotts this year, with Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Iceland and Slovenia withdrawing after organisers declined to exclude Israel; Israel finished second in both 2025 and 2026. Organisers said the rule updates aim to give greater clarity and protect artists and production staff; Martin Green, Eurovision director, framed them as part of an annual review to keep the contest fair, transparent and safe. Despite recent boycotts and a viewer drop from 160 million in 2025 to 130 million in 2026, the EBU is expanding the franchise, with Eurovision Song Contest Asia planned for Bangkok and Canada joining the main contest.

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