Basel, a vibrant city in Switzerland, has been selected to host the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) in May 2025. This exciting announcement was made by Swiss public broadcaster SRG on Friday, putting an end to the anticipation of which Swiss city would have the honor. Geneva had also been in the running, but ultimately, Basel was chosen.
A Historic Venue
The main event will take place at Basel’s St. Jakobshalle, a well-known venue for large-scale events. This modern arena is expected to provide a spectacular setting for the ESC, attracting thousands of fans from across Europe and beyond. The Basel government has estimated the costs for hosting the contest to be between CHF 30 million and CHF 35 million. This investment underscores the importance of the event not only for the city but for Switzerland as a whole.
Basel in the Global Spotlight
Hosting the Eurovision Song Contest is a significant opportunity for Basel. The city will be in the global spotlight, with millions of viewers expected to tune in. To give a sense of the event’s reach, during the Eurovision Song Contest in 2024, held in Malmö, Sweden, around 163 million people watched the live television shows. In Switzerland alone, nearly 800,000 viewers tuned in, reflecting the country’s strong interest in the competition.
A Return to Switzerland After 36 Years
The Eurovision Song Contest will return to Switzerland after a long gap of 36 years. The last time the country hosted the event was in 1989, following Céline Dion’s victory in 1988. Dion, representing Switzerland, won the contest with her famous song “Ne partez pas sans moi” in Dublin, Ireland. The event was then held in Lausanne at the Palais de Beaulieu, making it a memorable year for Swiss music lovers.
This time, the excitement is even greater due to the recent success of Swiss artist Nemo. Nemo won the Eurovision Song Contest in the spring of 2024, which was a surprise victory for many. His win has brought renewed attention to Switzerland’s musical talent and has created high expectations for the 2025 contest in Basel.
A Legacy of Eurovision in Switzerland
Switzerland has a deep connection with the Eurovision Song Contest. The very first ESC, then known as the “Grand Prix Eurovision de la Chanson,” took place in Switzerland on May 24, 1956. The event was held at the Teatro Kursaal in Lugano, marking the beginning of what would become one of the world’s most famous music competitions.
Over the years, Switzerland has had its share of Eurovision hits and misses. However, with Nemo’s recent victory, there is a sense of renewed enthusiasm and pride. The country is eager to showcase its musical culture once again on an international stage.
Preparing for the Big Event
As the host city, Basel is already gearing up for the big event. The local government, businesses, and cultural organizations are expected to play a crucial role in ensuring the success of the Eurovision Song Contest 2025. Preparations will likely include infrastructure improvements, security arrangements, and various cultural programs to welcome the thousands of visitors expected to arrive in the city.
Additionally, the contest is likely to boost the local economy, with hotels, restaurants, and other businesses benefiting from the influx of tourists. Basel will not only be a hub of music and entertainment but also a showcase of Swiss hospitality and culture.
Looking Ahead
The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 promises to be an unforgettable event for Basel and Switzerland. With the city’s rich cultural history and modern amenities, it is well-equipped to host such a prestigious event. Fans of the contest from around the world will have their eyes on Basel as it prepares to welcome the Eurovision community.
As the countdown to May 2025 begins, excitement is building. Basel, a city known for its art, culture, and vibrant atmosphere, is ready to shine on the global stage. The Eurovision Song Contest will not only be a celebration of music but also a celebration of Switzerland’s contribution to the world of entertainment.
