It’s been almost a year since singer Loreen bagged the gold for Sweden in the Eurovision Song Contest 2023, which took over the banks of the River Mersey in Liverpool. It was, as expected, an all-out bonkers affair – and no doubt this year will be much of the same, as the world’s most extravagant and eclectic music competition makes its way to the Swedish city of Malmö next month.
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From dates and venues to how to get tickets, here’s everything you need to know about Eurovision 2024.
When and where is Eurovision 2024?
Following a Swedish win last year, the coastal city of Malmö in southern Sweden will host this year’s contest. The competition is set to take over Malmö Arena in May, with the semi-finals held on May 7 and 9 and the final taking place on Saturday May 11.
How to get Eurovision tickets
Tickets for the live semi-finals, the live final, and afternoon and evening previews are available to buy from Ticketmaster.
What countries are taking part?
There are 37 countries taking part in this year’s contest. All the usual EBU countries will be participating, though Russia is still barred following the country’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, and Romania has chosen not to participate this year. For the first time since 1993, Luxembourg will participate in 2024. Israel is also taking part, which has led to controversy and a number of fans and groups boycotting the competition.
As per tradition, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK – aka ‘The Big Five’ – automatically qualify for the final. As last year’s winner, Sweden also has a guaranteed spot. The remaining 31 participating countries will compete across two semi-finals to fill the other 20 places in the final show.
Who will present the song contest this year?
Swedish presenter Petra Mede and actress Malin Åkerman will host this year’s contest.
Who are the favourites to win?
According to an average of various booking markets, Switzerland is the favourite with a 24 percent likelihood of taking the crown. The central European country has entered the competition with high-energy anthem ’The Code’ by Swiss singer Nemo. Croatia is second on the polls with a 16 percent chance, followed by Italy with a 13 percent chance of taking first place.
Who won Eurovision 2023?
Swedish singer Loreen won last year’s contest with a dramatic performance of her ballad ‘Tattoo’.
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