Surprising Things You Didn’t Know About Eurovision

It's once again that time of year when incredible singers from many European countries, Israel, and Australia perform their hearts out to win the coveted glass microphone trophy. It’s the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) or sometimes simply known as Eurovision.

Eurovision is an annual singing competition organized by the European Broadcasting Union, featuring the biggest and most elaborate musical productions. From crazy lights and extraordinary outfits to catchy lyrics and messy backstage interviews, the frills and thrills make Eurovision what it is today.

Let’s keep the Eurovision glimmer gleaming by learning some fascinating facts about this international competition!

1. All Eurovision songs must be no longer than 3 minutes: This is a hard rule that all entries must follow.
   
   
2. Four countries won at the same time in 1969: France, the Netherlands, the UK, and Spain all received the same score. With no tie-breaker rule in place yet, all four were named winners.
   
   
3. Ireland and Sweden hold the record for most wins: Both countries have a staggering 7 Eurovision wins under their belts. (Note: Sweden joined Ireland at the top spot following Loreen's win in 2023).
   
   
4. Only 7 countries participated in the first contest: The first-ever Eurovision was held in Switzerland on May 24, 1956.
   
   
5. Norway has placed at the bottom 11 times: Despite several last-place finishes, Norway has also successfully won the competition three times (1985, 1995, and 2009).
   
   
6. The contest was canceled for the first time in 2020: Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the 64-year streak was broken, though the artists were invited back for 2021.