The Eurovision Song Contest is back, my friend – and if you believe it’s just a collection of silly songs and dazzling lights, you’re only partially correct. Get ready for outrageous costumes, voting mayhem, and a couple of absolute hits (alongside a multitude of musical disasters). This year’s event is being hosted in Basel, Switzerland – big thanks to Nemo for winning in 2024 with The Code – it promises to be yet another exciting rollercoaster of glitter, tears, and strategic voting.
When is Eurovision Taking Place?
Mark your calendars for Saturday, 17 May 2025, because that’s when the excitement reaches its peak. Here’s the start time based on your location:
- 8pm BST (UK – grab a drink and settle in)
- 9pm CEST (Europe – don’t forget the snacks)
- 3pm ET (East Coast US – early dinner, folks)
- 12pm PT (West Coast US – brunch and Eurovision? Sounds good!)
The Grand Final lasts for hours – with performances, voting, some filler, and finally the results. If you manage to stay awake till the end, you deserve a trophy.
The UK automatically qualifies for the final since we’re part of the “Big Five” (the countries that contribute the most money). But if you want to see all the additional contenders, you can tune into the semi-finals too:
- Semi-final 1 – Tuesday, 13 May 2025 at 8pm BST
- Semi-final 2 – Thursday, 15 May 2025 at 8pm BST
Where’s the Event Happening This Year?
This year’s host city is Basel in Switzerland – yes, the land of chocolate and luxurious watches. Kudos to them for throwing the bash, and here’s a short video introduction to set the scene:
How to Watch Eurovision 2025 in the UK
If you’re in the UK, you’re in luck. BBC One will be broadcasting both the semi-finals and the grand final. You can also stream it live on BBC iPlayer or catch up later once you’ve recovered. It works on your phone, laptop, smart fridge – whatever you have.
Watching Eurovision in the US? Here’s What to Do
In the United States? You can stream it on Peacock. It’s not free – pay $7.99/month for ads, or $13.99/month for an ad-free experience. Welcome to the world of capitalism, Eurovision-style.
Can I Watch Eurovision Abroad? Absolutely (With a VPN)
Traveling? On vacation? Escaping your ex in Spain? You can still catch Eurovision by rerouting your digital presence with a VPN. This way, you can access BBC iPlayer even if you’re lounging somewhere in the Mediterranean.
I personally recommend NordVPN. It’s dependable and super user-friendly, even if you’re not tech-savvy. More info can be found at gadgetlad.co.uk.
Who’s Hosting This Event?
Switzerland is bringing in three hosts for the Eurovision festivities: Hazel Brugger (comedian), Michelle Hunziker (posh television personality), and Sandra Studer (Eurovision veteran). It sounds like a recipe for delightful chaos with a dash of “what on earth is happening?”
Meanwhile, over on the Beeb, our favorite Graham Norton returns with his sharp wit for the final. Rylan and Scott Mills will host the semi-finals, likely decked out in sequins and bronzer. Good on them.
Voting – How to Support Your Favorites
Want to show support for your favorite (or ensure Sweden doesn’t win once more)? You’ll need the official Eurovision app. Download it from the Google Play Store or iOS App Store. If you’re still using a Windows phone… mate, it might be time to reconsider.
You can also vote online at the official website. Just remember not to vote for your own country – Eurovision rules state that’s unfair. Fair play.
Eurovision 2025 Finalists (As of Now…)
This year, 37 countries are aiming for the crown, but only 26 will reach the Grand Final showdown. Switzerland, as the host, secures an automatic spot, along with the Big Five (UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain – the usual wealthier suspects).
Eurovision 2025 Semi-final 1 Running Order
- 1. Iceland: VÆB – RÓA
- 2. Poland: Justyna Steczkowska – GAJA
- … (rest omitted for brevity, full list available on GadgetLad.co.uk)
Eurovision 2025 Semi-final 2 Running Order
- 1. Australia: Go-Jo – Milkshake Man
- 2. Montenegro: Nina Žižić – Dobrodošli
- … (again, check the complete lineup on GadgetLad.co.uk)
Finalists Already Confirmed
- Switzerland | Zoë Më – Voyage
- Germany | Abor & Tynna – Baller
- Spain | Melody – ESA DIVA
- United Kingdom | Remember Monday – What The Hell Just Happened?
- Italy | Lucio Corsi – Volevo Essere Un Duro
- France | Louane – maman
UK’s Entry This Year – A Gritty Girl Group
This year, Remember Monday will represent the UK – a fantastic girl group with harmonies closer than my lifting straps on leg day. Their song is titled What The Hell Just Happened? – which also describes how I feel most mornings post-leg day or while trying to navigate a new Samsung remote.
They possess West End talent and a wealth of Eurovision enthusiasm. The music video showcases the usual wild antics, and they’ve even parodied that silly Will Ferrell Netflix song for a laugh. Legends.
Summary: Glitz, Gaffes & Geordie Laughs
Alright, that’s all from me. Eurovision 2025 is gearing up to be another flamboyant fever dream filled with questionable vocals and unexpected brilliance. Whether you’re tuning in for the tunes, the memes, or watching Graham Norton roast everything, you don’t want to miss this event.
I, for one, will be relaxing on the couch with my Jack Russell, a protein shake in one hand, and my phone in the other. Voting. Judging. Laughing. Living. Welcome to the madness, my friends.
Title Tag: Eurovision 2025 – More Sparkle Than a Magpie’s Nest | GadgetLad
