The glittering spectacle of the Eurovision Song Contest is set to descend upon the Austrian capital, after Vienna was officially unveiled as the host city for the 2026 edition.
The announcement, made by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and Austrian national broadcaster ORF, concludes a fiercely competitive bidding process. Vienna's proposal ultimately triumphed, promising to deliver a contest that celebrates both the event's vibrant future and its rich musical heritage.
Why Vienna Won the Bid
Vienna's winning bid leveraged its world-class infrastructure and profound cultural history. The city is expected to host the events across two premier venues: the sprawling Wiener Stadthalle for the live shows and the adjoining Austria Center Vienna, which will house the press centre and delegation facilities.
This compact, efficient plan was a key factor in the decision, ensuring a seamless experience for artists, journalists, and thousands of fans expected to flock to the city.
A Celebration of 'United By Music'
The 2026 contest will be orchestrated by ORF, Austria's public service broadcaster. The theme, deeply intertwined with Vienna's identity, is a continuation of the successful 'United By Music' mantra. Organisers promise a show that reflects the city's legacy as a historic crossroads of European culture and a beacon of classical music, all while embracing the modern, pop-centric frenzy of Eurovision.
Key figures from ORF have expressed immense pride in bringing the contest back to Austria for the first time since Conchita Wurst's iconic victory in 2015 led to the hosting of the 2015 contest in Vienna.
What Happens Next?
With the host city confirmed, the mammoth logistical operation now begins in earnest. The focus will shift to:
- Finalising venue preparations at the Wiener Stadthalle and Austria Center Vienna.
- Appointing key production and creative teams to shape the visual and musical style of the show.
- Coordinating with participating broadcasters across Europe and beyond.
- Launching ticket sales initiatives for the highly anticipated live events.
All eyes will now be on Vienna as it prepares to take centre stage and write the next unforgettable chapter in the Eurovision Song Contest's history.
